A new English language test will soon be accepted for Canadian permanent residence applications. This change has been announced to give applicants more flexibility when proving their language skills. The update is expected to benefit many individuals who are planning to immigrate to Canada.
The Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Essentials will be added as an approved option by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Although the test is not yet accepted, it has been confirmed that IRCC will update its official website once the process is finalized. This will allow applicants to prepare in advance.
The TOEFL Essentials test will be used to assess English proficiency for those applying through Canada’s economic immigration programs. These programs include several well-known pathways such as Express Entry, the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Other programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) may also accept the test, depending on regional decisions.
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The announcement was made by the Education Testing Service (ETS), the organization responsible for administering the TOEFL. IRCC has officially designated ETS as a language testing provider. It was stated that ETS is currently working with IRCC to finalize the steps needed for full acceptance of the TOEFL Essentials test.
Once approved, the test will be made available at secure testing centers both in Canada and internationally. The TOEFL Essentials test measures four key English skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. These skills are tested through practical, task-based activities that reflect everyday communication.
The test is expected to last about 1.5 hours, making it shorter than some other language exams. A unique feature of the test is the Personal Video Statement, which is included but not scored. This part allows test takers to present themselves in a more personal way, adding depth to their application.
Scores for listening and reading are shown immediately after the test is completed. Official results are usually made available online within six days or less. These scores can be sent to an unlimited number of institutions at no extra cost, making the process more convenient for applicants.
Currently, IRCC accepts three other English language tests: the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), and the Pearson Test of English (PTE Core). All scores are measured using the Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) system, which helps standardize language requirements across programs.
With the addition of TOEFL Essentials, more options will be provided to applicants. This change is expected to make the immigration process more accessible and flexible. Updates will be updated here once shared by IRCC and ETS, and the test is officially accepted and available for use.
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Greece unveiled the new Personal Citizen Number (PN) during a ministerial meeting in May, along with the Launch of the New National Electronic Health Record (EHFY) Platform, a major step toward modernizing the Greek state. This will allow, for the first time, Greek citizens and residents alike to use a single identification number for all interactions with the public sector. The PN will replace existing numbers, such as the Tax ID (AFM), Social Security Number (AMKA), and ID card number. It will be given to anyone who already has an AFM or AMKA, including foreign residents.
The PN is unique and permanent, staying the same for life. It has 12 characters, including three alphanumeric parts—two of which can be chosen by the user—and the person’s AFM. New citizens’ ID cards will include the PN automatically, though it is not clear if the PN will be included in new resident permits for foreigners in the country.
Now the deadline for the issuance has been extended until November 5th, which comes with the possibility and opportunity to select the first two digits of the prefix of the Tax Identification Number (AFM). This option has been extended to give citizens/residents more time to make their selection, as outlined in the current legal framework. The third digit of the Personal Number is not chosen by the individual. Instead, it is automatically generated and is always an alphabetical character. This process has been designed to simplify the system and reduce errors. By automating part of the numbering, consistency is maintained across all issued PNs in Greece.
Screenshot image from the press release
So far, a total of 1,175,800 Personal Numbers have been issued. Out of these, only 85,880 have been processed through KEP and Consular Authorities. This means that just 7.5% of all PNs have been issued in person, showing that most citizens are choosing to use digital services. The preference for online platforms has been clearly demonstrated by this data.
In addition, 270,140 new Greek national identity cards have already been printed with the Personal Number included. This shows that the integration of the PN into official documents is progressing quickly. The inclusion of the PN on identity cards is now a required step in the issuance process. Again, there is no indication that the PN will be included in new residence permits issued to foreigners living in Greece.
The Personal Number is part of a major reform. It has been introduced to help identify and fix differences in citizens’ personal data across various public registries. These differences are being highlighted by the myInfo application, which is helping to improve data accuracy. So far, 355,265 discrepancies in personal data have been found. In addition, 57,919 duplicate entries have been identified. When applying for the PN, it is advisable to confirm the correct information, and the process of correcting and matching the data is currently ongoing. This effort is helping to clean up and unify public records.
Problems have also been found in municipal registry data. A total of 5,576 issues have been detected, and 2,714 of these have already been corrected. These corrections are being made to ensure that everyone’s data is accurate and up to date.
To get the PN, users will need their Greek Taxisnet login details and a registered mobile number in the National Communication Registry. This can be done through the myInfo application found at pa.gov.gr, or by visiting Citizens’ Service Centers (KEP) and Consular Authorities if you live abroad.
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Greece’s nationwide rollout of the new digital platform for the National Health System, known as MyHealth, was officially initiated on Monday, May 26, 2025. The platform has been designed to support the National Electronic Health Record (EHFY), and it is now being made available to everyone across the country. Through this system, medical data belonging to individuals is being securely integrated into a single, user-friendly digital environment.
You are now able to access your health records by visiting https://citizen.ehealthrecord.gov.gr. Within this platform, all relevant health information—including diagnoses, prescriptions, laboratory results, and hospital stays—is being gathered and presented in one centralized location. Similarly, healthcare providers are being granted access to patient histories through https://doctor.ehealthrecord.gov.gr, allowing for more informed and personalized medical care to be delivered.
What Are The Benefits — A wide range of advantages is being offered through the new platform. Full access to one’s medical history is being provided, with all health-related data stored in a secure digital format. Convenience is being enhanced, as users can now retrieve their health information from any location and at any time, using either the MyHealth mobile application or the official website. You are being empowered to take a more active role in managing your health, with improved tools for decision-making and communication with healthcare providers. Additionally, digital assistants powered by Artificial Intelligence are being made available to support users in understanding and managing their health more effectively.
Screenshot image from citizen.ehealthrecord.gov.gr
Benefits for Healthcare Professionals — Doctors and other medical professionals are also being supported through this new initiative. A complete and instant overview of each patient’s medical history—including diagnoses, medications, surgeries, and hospitalizations—is being made available in one place. Clinical practice is being improved by reducing the time needed to gather information, thereby allowing more focus on patient care. Collaboration among healthcare providers is being strengthened through secure and efficient data sharing. AI-powered digital assistants are being introduced to help manage the system and extract relevant information. Unified access to medical data from all public and private healthcare providers is being facilitated, ensuring that doctors can make well-informed decisions regardless of where the patient has received care.
Statement by the Greek Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis — According to the Greek Minister of Health, Adonis Georgiadis, the launch of the National Electronic Health Record marks a historic milestone in the digital transformation of Greece’s public health system. The project has been implemented with consistency and foresight by the Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Hellenic Institute of Public Health and the Ministry of Digital Governance. The way medical information is transferred and utilized is being fundamentally changed, with immediate and secure access to critical data now being ensured for healthcare professionals. Citizens are being given control over their care, while the government is gaining a clearer and more functional understanding of the nation’s health landscape. The overarching goal is to usher in a new digital era for healthcare in Greece—one that is transparent, accessible, and centered around the needs of the people.
Statement by the Minister of Digital Governance, Dimitris Papastergiou — Minister Dimitris Papastergiou emphasized that the National Electronic Health Record represents a major advancement in the healthcare sector. Citizens and doctors alike are being supported through this reform, which allows health information to be accessed simply and easily, from any location and at any time, via the MyHealth App. Bureaucracy is being reduced, as the need to carry physical documents and test results is being eliminated. Doctors are being equipped with complete patient histories, enabling them to provide more personalized and effective care. Artificial Intelligence is being utilized to offer tailored support through digital assistants, which respond to both citizens and healthcare professionals. Through collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the organization IDIKA, a series of digital projects is being advanced to improve healthcare and simplify daily life for both citizens and health officials.
Looking Ahead — The universal implementation of the National Electronic Health Record is being recognized as a transformative moment for Greece’s healthcare system. By embracing digital technology and prioritizing user-friendly design, the government is making healthcare more accessible, efficient, and personalized. Citizens and doctors alike are being empowered to take full advantage of this new era in health management.
This initiative is being seen as a significant step toward a smarter, more responsive health system in Greece. By centralizing and digitizing health records, the government is aiming to improve the quality, efficiency, and accessibility of healthcare services. The integration of AI tools is being used to enhance user experience and streamline administrative processes. Citizens are being encouraged to engage more actively with their health data, while doctors are being supported in delivering better care through improved access to information.
Special attention is being paid to the security and privacy of medical data. All information is being stored in compliance with strict data protection regulations, and access is being controlled through secure authentication methods. Citizens can feel confident that their health records are being handled with care and confidentiality, while healthcare providers are being given the tools they need to maintain professional standards.
As the platform continues to evolve, additional features and services are expected to be introduced. The Ministries involved are committed to ongoing improvement and innovation in the digital health space. Feedback from users will be taken into account to ensure that the system remains responsive to the needs of both citizens and healthcare professionals.
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The Swedish Tax Agency has opened the 2024 tax return, allowing many Swedes to log in and review their information. Before submitting your return, please consider several important factors and ensure you do not miss the numerous deductions and opportunities available.
The declaration opened at the Swedish Tax Agency in the e-service Income Tax Declaration 1 on March 18th, and the deadline for filing your tax return to the Swedish Tax Agency is May 2nd. Below are a few tips to help you make sure you don’t miss out on claiming money back if you can. Take note that some of these deductions may already be written down on the pre-filled-out tax form, and some you may have paid for at the time of the purchase (for example, deductions for maintenance work). Others, you have to make sure you report yourself.
Work Computers, Tablets, and Clothing — If you need to purchase a computer or tablet to perform your job duties, you can deduct the cost from your taxes. This deduction is valid as long as you have a receipt and your employer did not provide the device. However, if you occasionally use your personal computer at home but have an employer-provided one at work, this deduction does not apply.
Photo Credits: Sofia Sabel/imagebank.sweden.se
You can also deduct the cost of protective clothing or equipment required for your job, such as helmets, protective goggles, hearing protection, and steel-toed boots. Tools can also be deducted. However, if your employer paid for the equipment, it is not deductible. Most work uniforms or clothing to comply with a dress code are not included.
Public and Private Transport — If you use public transport for commuting, you can deduct annual expenses exceeding 11,000 kronor, provided the distance between home and work is at least two (2) kilometers. Tax deductions are also available for those who drive to and from work, provided the distance between home and work is at least five kilometers and driving saves at least two hours compared to public transport mentioned above. You can deduct 25 kronor per 10 kilometers if you use your own car. For company cars, the deduction varies: 9.5 kronor per 10 kilometers for electric cars and 12 kronor per 10 kilometers for other fuel types. Deductions apply only to costs exceeding 11,000 kronor per year.
When traveling abroad or to another part of Sweden more than 50 kilometers from your home for work, you may be entitled to a daily tax-free allowance to cover increased expenses. The allowance varies by country and depends on whether it is a full or half day. Departure days starting at noon or later and return days ending at 7 pm or earlier count as half days.
Work Phone Calls, Literature, and Texts — If you use your personal mobile phone for work-related calls, you can deduct the additional costs of these calls. However, you cannot deduct the cost of your phone contract itself. If the calls are included in your contract, this deduction is not available. When your job requires you to buy specific literature or texts, you can deduct these expenses. You must have a receipt and be able to justify the necessity of these materials for your work. This deduction does not cover newspapers, study textbooks, or literature that is widely read by the general public.
Renting Out Property & Service Work — Property owners who rent out their property can benefit from an annual deduction of 40,000 kronor per property. If you rent out a bostadsrätt (condo) or hyresrätt (apartment), you can also deduct the fees or rent you pay for the property during the rental period. For example, if you rent out your bostadsrätt, you can deduct the fees paid to the housing corporation. This does not apply if you are illegally renting out your apartment as a second home without the knowledge of your landlord. Also, if you have paid for services like repairs, cleaning, or maintenance on your owned home, you can take advantage of ROT & RUT tax deductions. Payments for these services must be made electronically for it to apply.
Basic Deduction — Some of you who worked in Sweden throughout 2024 (that is, from January to December) but were registered as Living in Sweden and got a Personal Number at some point in the year might get part of the basic deduction. The Swedish Tax Agency might also ask you to pay back a certain amount in some cases. If this happens, you are entitled to a basic deduction for the entire year if 90% or more of your earned income (e.g., salary or pension) for the income year 2024 is declared in Sweden. You can claim this deduction under Other information in the income tax return.
For detailed information on these deductions and more, you can visit the Swedish Tax Agency’s (Skatteverket) website here.
Warning! — The Swedish Tax Agency never asks for your account details in emails or SMS. Only via e-services where you have logged in with your e-ID. If you receive any email or SMS claiming to be from Skatteverket and requesting sensitive information, do not click on links, do not open attachments, and do not respond. DELETE!.
A new pathway to Canadian permanent residency for construction workers in and outside the country has opened up to support its construction industry. The changes intend to reserve immigration spaces for up to 6,000 undocumented construction workers within Canada and allow qualified temporary foreign workers to study in apprenticeship programs without requiring a study permit.
The changes that became effective from March 7, 2025, were announced by the Canadian Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Marc Miller. “The federal government will allow qualified foreign workers who register for apprenticeships to study without a permit,” the statement read.
According to the minister, up to 14,000 foreign national construction workers may be admitted to Canada with this new change, as Canada’s construction sector has faced persistent labor shortages amid a housing supply shortage, hampering the country’s ability to build new homes and aggravating domestic affordability concerns. The Canadian Mortgage and Housing Corporation estimated that the country would need to build an additional 6 million homes by 2030 to restore housing affordability.
Photo Credits: Freepik
Canadian Express Entry — Construction occupations were also recently added as a priority category for invitations to apply (ITAs) under the Express Entry system on February 27, 2025. The immigration department also added 19 new occupations to the category, expanding it significantly.
This reflects the department’s intention to invite newcomers who can aid Canada’s construction and other sectors for permanent residence. Among the added occupations were several construction occupations, including:
— Construction estimators;
— Bricklayers;
— Roofers and shingles;
— Floor covering installers; and
— Painters and decorators (except interior decorators)
New Categories Added to Express Entry — Following the recent changes to the Express Entry system, the IRCC also added a new “Education” category with 5 listed occupations. This means that foreign workers in the education sector who wish to relocate to Canada via the Express Entry can now do so.
IRCC has also added several social services occupations to the healthcare category and removed the transport category. A few new categories listed on IRCC’s website are:
— French-language proficiency;
— Healthcare and Social service occupations;
— Agriculture and agri-food occupations;
— Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) occupations;
— Trades occupations; and
— Education occupations
While there have been major changes to allow more foreign workers to migrate to Canada, these categories will be prioritized for invitations to apply (ITA) within the Express Entry system:
— French-language proficiency;
— Healthcare and Social service occupations;
— Trades occupations; and
— Education occupations
These aren’t the only changes that have been made to the category-based selection.
Do you want to learn if you are eligible and get a full account of which occupations are now included in Express Entry’s trade category?
New opportunities have opened in the form of Hitachi Energy Sweden for thousands of former Northvolt employees who faced job insecurity after being laid off by the Swedish battery giant, and foreign experts who intend to move to Sweden.
With many foreign workers potentially forced to leave Sweden if they are unable to find new employment within three months of losing their jobs due to their status as labor migrants, Tobias Hansson, CEO of Hitachi Energy Sweden, notes the stress among these workers.
Hitachi Energy, which is expanding rapidly in the green energy sector, is growing by 100-150 employees per month. The company, which acquired ABB’s business, plans to double its workforce to 8,000 by early 2027 and, as such, opens up new opportunities for job seekers in Sweden and abroad.
Photo Credits: Jann Lipka/imagebank.sweden.se
Hitachi Energy has already hired around 50 former Northvolt employees, with another hundred applications received. Hansson emphasizes that the skills of former Northvolt employees are well-suited to Hitachi Energy, making the transition beneficial for both companies.
There are currently numerous positions available to take advantage of in Sweden as well as in Germany, India, Finland, South Africa, Poland, and the USA, to name a few.
Applications are currently ongoing for everyone who lives in Sweden, Greece, the UK, and those who wish to move to these countries. Take advantage of the opportunity, who knows, you might land your dream job and be one of Hitachi Energy’s envisioned 8000 employees by 2027.
