Canada unveils new 2026 Express Entry categories targeting doctors, researchers and senior managers
IRCC backlog tops one million as permanent-residence pressure intensifies
IRCC data show 61 % plunge in new international-student arrivals after policy clampdown
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China launches 30-day visa-free entry for Canadians starting today
Effective 17 February 2026, Canadian passport holders can enter China visa-free for stays of up to 30 days, reducing cost and paperwork for tourism and short-term business trips. The waiver, valid until 31 December 2026, follows high-level talks between Ottawa and Beijing and is expected to stimulate bilateral trade and travel. Corporations should review compliance and data-transfer policies but can anticipate meaningful savings on visa fees.
IRCC warns of lengthening Canadian visa queues as FIFA World Cup looms
Visa processing times have jumped across Canadian immigration categories as IRCC battles budget cuts and an influx of applications linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Work-permit extensions exceed 200 days and visitor visas for some countries approach 300 days, prompting industry calls for expedited measures. Businesses and travellers are urged to submit applications early and build wider timing buffers.
U.S. tightens land-border scrutiny: Canadians told to carry proof of ties
CBP has expanded biometric exit/entry checks and is scrutinising Canadian visitors more closely, especially those on short business trips. Lawyers recommend travellers carry evidence of Canadian employment, residency and clear itineraries to avoid refusal at the border. Firms should update policies and build extra time into cross-border schedules.
Air Transat exits U.S. market as WestJet slashes 16 transborder routes
Air Transat will quit the U.S. market entirely this summer and WestJet will cut 16 cross-border routes as demand for Canadian travel to the U.S. plummets. The reductions will lengthen journey times for business travellers, push traffic through fewer hubs and may raise fares on remaining services.
Air Canada unveils year-round Montreal–Guadalajara service and boosts Mexico capacity
Air Canada will launch a nonstop Montreal–Guadalajara route on 1 July 2026 and increase frequencies on four other Mexican destinations, lifting its Mexico capacity by 18 % this summer. The move offers Canadian businesses faster access to Mexico’s tech and manufacturing hubs and reflects Air Canada’s shift toward stronger Latin American demand.