Conference Sessions
9:00am – 4:15pm | Order of sessions is subject to change.
Choosing the Right Path to Permanent Residence
With increased competition over limited permanent residence spots, the stress on in-Canada applicants has never been higher. Traditional pathways are becoming inaccessible, making niche programs the key to navigating the immigration system.
But which options are suitable for your clients? Survey new and ongoing pilot programs, strategic advantages of the BC Entrepreneur Program, and how the BC PNP Health Authority Stream aligns with the provincial immigration objectives.
Moderator Adrienne Denham, LeBeau Law Corporation
Victor Ing, Sas & Ing Immigration Law Centre
Marina Sedai, Sedai Immigration Law Corporation
Katharine Van Nostrand, Mathews Dinsdale & Clark LLP
No Way Forward, But Can’t Go Back
Faced with ineligibility and no safe way to return to their country of origin, your clients are left with a final resort: Humanitarian and Compassionate considerations.
H&C applications are complex, evidence-heavy and require persuasive arguments for approval. Uncover recent trends in H&C decisions to understand who is getting approved and how to prepare a successful application.
Moderator Hannah Lindy, Larlee Rosenberg
Kamaljit K. Lehal, Lehal Law
When Temporary is the Only Option
For workers unable to secure permanent residence or waiting for approval, maintaining lawful status is essential to remaining in the country. In this run-down of temporary status pathways, find out what still works, what’s risky and how to keep your clients lawful in your search for a long-term plan.
Examine recent shifts in the International Mobility Program, challenges in the Labour Market Impact Assessment process, Spousal Open Work Permit criteria, and learn to effectively advise clients on which option to pursue.
Moderator Amandeep Hayer, Hayer Law
Sharon An, Vialto Partners LLP
Benton Mischuk, MKS Immigration Lawyers
Helen Park, Dentons Canada
Litigation Tactics to Make the System Move
Knowing how to challenge decisions effectively can make or break a case. Your client’s need for status doesn’t go away when their file is delayed or refused.
In this workshop, explore recent case law impacting Mandamus applications and the evolving standards of judicial reviews of refusals. Work with your colleagues to apply practical approaches to managing litigation files, from identifying grounds for review to anticipating government responses.
Moderator Anita Boscariol, Watson Goepel LLP
Richard Kurland, Kurland, Tobe
Erica Olmstead, Edelmann & Co
Fadi Yachoua, Yachoua Law
Immigration Law’s Next Chapter
Who does the province actually need... and where? BC PNP Director and Chief Labour Market Economist dissect the BC Labour Market Outlook 2026, identifying how demographic trends and labour shortages influence immigration planning.
Then learn from seasoned lawyers how potential reforms under the Strong Borders Act, Temporary Foreign Worker Program, and future Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada targets may shape your immigration practice.
Moderator Brian Yuen, Coal Harbour Law
Dr. Matt Ayres, Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills
Jeevyn Dhaliwal, KC, Larlee Rosenberg
Ian Ross, BC Provincial Nominee Program
Reception
4:15pm – 6:30pm | Included in conference registration. Tickets available for those who cannot attend the conference.