Canada Tightens “Avoid All Travel” Advisory List Amid Global Instability
Ontario Bans “Canadian Work Experience” Requirement in Job Ads, Boosting Newcomer Mobility
WestJet Fast-Tracks Review of Fixed-Back Economy Seats After Passenger Outcry
Latest News
Canada and UAE to Launch Trade Pact Talks, Eye Labour and Talent Mobility Provisions
Canada will open CEPA negotiations with the UAE in February 2026, with labour-mobility chapters high on the agenda. The prospective deal could streamline short-term work visas and professional accreditation, benefiting Canadian firms seeking Gulf investment and project opportunities.
eTA System Offline for Scheduled Maintenance—Early-Morning Travellers Should Plan Ahead
IRCC will take the eTA application portal offline for maintenance from midnight to 05:30 ET on January 13. Visa-exempt travellers heading to Canada during this window must apply beforehand or risk boarding denials, making proactive communication essential for mobility teams.
Canada Adds 110,000 Extra Economic-Class Spots and Tweaks Study-Permit Rules
IRCC has released 110,000 additional economic-class immigration places for 2026 and exempted master’s and PhD students from provincial attestation letters, while pausing new Start-Up Visa files. The move gives employers more permanent-residence options for in-country talent and eases barriers for graduate-level international students.
PHAC Updates Chikungunya Travel-Health Notice Amid Surge in South Asia and Caribbean
PHAC raised its chikungunya travel-health notice to Level 2 on January 12 for Bangladesh, Cuba and Sri Lanka, urging enhanced precautions and highlighting the new Canadian-approved vaccine. The change prompts Canadian employers to revisit vaccination policies, medical clearances and insurance coverage for staff deployed to these regions.
Full eTA Enforcement for Visa-Exempt Travellers Set for February 2026, Says Industry Round-Up
An industry brief on January 12 confirmed that Canada will require all visa-exempt travellers to hold an approved eTA from February 2026. Airlines must integrate mandatory checks, and corporates should build eTA compliance into pre-trip approval workflows.