Canada trims study-permit validity for prerequisite programs to 90-day buffer
IRCC freezes Post-Graduation Work-Permit eligible-field list for 2026
4,000 Healthcare & Social-Services workers invited in targeted Express Entry draw
Latest News
CBSA warns of eManifest, CERS and CARM outages during 21–22 Feb system maintenance
CBSA systems that underpin electronic cargo reporting will be offline for scheduled maintenance from the early hours of 21 February to midday 22 February 2026. Brokers and carriers must use contingency procedures or risk shipment delays, though CBSA confirms no penalties will apply.
Atlantic Canada braces for travel chaos as ‘Blizzard of 2026’ pushes north
Environment Canada’s 21 February winter-storm watches signal major air, sea and road disruptions across Atlantic Canada as the same blizzard hammering the U.S. Northeast tracks north. Businesses face flight cancellations, highway closures and supply-chain detours, with emergency crews on high alert.
IRCC issues 4,000 Invitations in surprise Health-Care Express Entry draw
On 20 February 2026, IRCC invited 4,000 candidates in a health-care and social-services-specific Express Entry draw, closing a record week of four draws and 10,670 total ITAs. The CRS cut-off was 467, underscoring Canada’s push to ease critical skills shortages in its health system. Employers and mobility teams should prepare for rapid onboarding and provincial licensing hurdles.
Alberta to hold October referendum on five sweeping immigration questions
Premier Danielle Smith confirmed a province-wide vote for 19 October 2026 that will ask Albertans whether to restrict social services for some newcomers and seek new powers over immigration levels. The referendum creates months of uncertainty for employers who rely on foreign talent and could set a precedent for other provinces if approved.
IRCC tightens rules for LMIA-exempt ‘reciprocal employment’ work permits
IRCC’s updated officer guidance makes it harder to obtain LMIA-exempt ‘reciprocal employment’ work permits, demanding proof that Canadians and permanent residents receive equivalent opportunities abroad and tightening documentation reviews. Multinationals and exchange sponsors must strengthen compliance procedures or risk refusals.
First-ever physicians-only Express Entry draw sets record-low CRS of 169
IRCC’s newly created physicians category issued 391 ITAs with a record-low CRS cut-off of 169, offering practising international doctors a fast track to permanent residence. The move addresses Canada’s acute doctor shortage and gives hospitals a retention boost.