Immigration News
Automatically updated from official Government of Canada sources. Prioritizing IRCC announcements.
Canada refocusing Express Entry on top talent that drives economic growth
October 16, 2026—Kitchener, Ontario—Building a stronger Canada means restoring confidence in a well-managed immigration system that meets our economic needs. This includes attracting and retaining skilled talent to complement the Canadian workforce and drive economic growth.
Changes to Express Entry for high-wage occupations
On November 3, 2026, changes to Express Entry willintroduce points for eligible Canadian work experience or qualifying job offers in highwage occupations, and remove labour market impact assessment (LMIA) requirements for qualifying job offers used to establish program eligibility and obtain Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points
Minister Metlege Diab to make an announcement in Kitchener
Minister Metlege Diab to make an announcement in Kitchener
Minister Metlege Diab highlights new Productivity Mega Deduction to help businesses invest, grow, and create jobs in Canada
Canada has what the world wants: abundant energy and critical minerals, the most educated workforce in the world, access to 1.5 billion consumers through our free trade agreements and the strongest fiscal position in the G7. We are building on these advantages to make Canada the best place in the world to invest, build and grow.
Minister Metlege Diab to highlight new Productivity Mega Deduction that will help businesses invest, grow, and create jobs in Canada
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will highlight recent government changes to Canada’s business tax system, boosting Canada’s advantage as the most competitive G7 country for new business investment. A media availability will follow.
Projects aimed at supporting Francophone minority communities
The Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration (CIFI) aims to integrate Francophone perspectives into immigration programs in Canada. It promotes immigration to French-speaking employers, facilitates access to programs and supports the growth of Francophone minority communities (FMCs). The CIFI supports innovative projects to reduce obstacles to immigration and offers funding to improve the promotion of FMCs internationally, the recruitment and the selection of French-speaking candidates and their support towards permanent residence. In addition, the CIFI supports projects that facilitate the collection of evidence and the implementation of research that highlights lessons learned and promising practices that can contribute to concrete solutions for an improved immigration pathway.
Canada is supporting new projects to promote Francophone immigration and strengthen Francophone minority communities
Collaboration is essential to addressing Canada’s workforce needs and responding to the realities facing Francophone communities. Given the challenges posed by labour shortages and the ongoing need to attract and retain talent, Canada is joining forces with its partners and reinforcing its commitment to Francophone immigration.
Minister Metlege Diab to make an announcement regarding Francophone immigration in St. John’s
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will hold a press conference in St. John’s to unveil innovative projects to strengthen Francophone immigration in Newfoundland and Labrador and other Francophone minority communities outside Quebec. Minister Metlege Diab will be joined by the Honourable Lin Paddock, Minister of Jobs, Growth and Rural Development for Newfoundland and Labrador. A media availability will follow.
The Government of Canada extends the federal fuel excise tax relief on gasoline, diesel and aviation fuels for Canadians
The world is changing rapidly. The United States is imposing new tariffs on Canada, designed to hurt and divide us. At the same time, conflicts in Europe and the Middle East are driving up prices around the world. In response, Canada’s government is focused on what we can control: building a stronger, more independent and more affordable country.
Minister Metlege Diab highlights the extension of federal fuel excise tax relief on gasoline, diesel and aviation fuels for Canadians
The world is changing rapidly. The United States is imposing new tariffs on Canada, designed to hurt and divide us. At the same time, conflicts in Europe and the Middle East are driving up prices around the world. In response, Canada’s government is focused on what we can control: building a stronger, more independent and more affordable country.
Minister Metlege Diab to highlight the extension of the federal fuel excise tax relief on gasoline, diesel, and aviation fuels for Canadians
Minister Metlege Diab to highlight the extension of federal fuel excise tax relief on gasoline, diesel and aviation fuels for Canadians
IRCC holds new Express Entry general draw
The Government of Canada has issued invitations to apply for permanent residence in a new Express Entry round. Invitation counts and CRS cutoffs vary by draw type and are determined by IRCC.
Category-based selection continues for healthcare occupations
IRCC continues to use category-based selection to target candidates with experience in healthcare occupations. Eligible candidates are ranked by CRS score within the category.
Study permit updates for international students
IRCC has shared updates regarding study permit processing and requirements for international students attending designated learning institutions.
French-language proficiency draws support bilingualism goals
Express Entry rounds targeting French-language proficiency support Canada's bilingualism objectives. Strong French ability can provide additional CRS points.
Work permit pathways and LMIA considerations explained
Employer-specific work permits often require a Labour Market Impact Assessment, while open work permits and LMIA-exempt categories provide additional options for workers.
Provincial Nominee Programs remain a key pathway to permanent residence
Provincial Nominee Programs allow provinces to nominate individuals who meet local economic needs. A nomination adds 600 additional CRS points for Express Entry candidates.
Canada expands online passport renewal to all eligible adults (Toronto)
The Government of Canada is committed to making life simpler and more convenient for Canadians. This includes a modern passport program that delivers secure user‑friendly digital services that save time, reduce in‑person visits and make passport renewal easier.
Canada expands online passport renewal to all eligible adults
The Government of Canada is committed to making life simpler and more convenient for Canadians. This includes a modern passport program that delivers secure, user‑friendly digital services that save time, reduce in‑person visits and make passport renewal easier.
Parliamentary Secretary Fragiskatos to make an announcement in Toronto
Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will be in Toronto to highlight an announcement regarding online passport renewals. The announcement is being made on behalf of the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. A media availability will follow.
Minister Metlege Diab and Parliamentary Secretary Koutrakis to make an announcement in Vancouver
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, alongside Annie Koutrakis, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Jobs and Families, will make an announcement regarding online passport renewals. A media availability will follow.
Minister Metlege Diab highlights Canada Child Benefit payments increasing in 2026–2027
The Government of Canada is lowering costs for families by strengthening the Canada Child Benefit (CCB). The CCB is a monthly tax-free payment to help them with the costs of raising children.
Minister Metlege Diab to highlight the Canada Child Benefit’s more generous support for families
Minister Metlege Diab to highlight the Canada Child Benefit’s more generous support for families
Projects aimed at supporting Francophone minority communities
The Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration (CIFI) aims to integrate Francophone perspectives into immigration programs in Canada. It promotes immigration to French-speaking employers, facilitates access to programs and supports the growth of Francophone minority communities (FMCs). The CIFI supports innovative projects to reduce obstacles to immigration and offers funding to improve the promotion of FMCs internationally, the recruitment and the selection of French-speaking candidates and their support towards permanent residence. In addition, the CIFI supports projects that facilitate the collection of evidence and the implementation of research that highlights lessons learned and promising practices that can contribute to concrete solutions for an improved immigration pathway.
Canada and the Northwest Territories join forces to support the growth of Francophone communities
Canada is making Francophone immigration a force that unites communities and recognizes the contribution of Francophone and bilingual newcomers to the growth of the Francophonie. With this in mind, to promote the demographic and economic development of communities in the Northwest Territories, the governments of Canada and the Northwest Territories are working together to ensure the retention of qualified Francophone and bilingual talent.
Peter Fragiskatos, MP, highlights launch of National Food Security Strategy
The Government of Canada is focused on building a stronger economy and making life more affordable for Canadians. Today, Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, on behalf of the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, highlighted the launch of the National Food Security Strategy.
Projects aimed at supporting Francophone minority communities
The Centre for Innovation in Francophone Immigration (CIFI) aims to integrate Francophone perspectives into immigration programs in Canada. It promotes immigration to French-speaking employers, facilitates access to programs and supports the growth of Francophone minority communities (FMCs). The CIFI supports innovative projects to reduce obstacles to immigration and offers funding to improve the promotion of FMCs internationally, the recruitment and the selection of French-speaking candidates and their support towards permanent residence. In addition, the CIFI supports projects that facilitate the collection of evidence and the implementation of research that highlights lessons learned and promising practices that can contribute to concrete solutions for an improved immigration pathway.
Canada and Manitoba join forces to give new momentum to Francophone immigration
Canada is committed to supporting Francophone immigration and is focused on attracting and retaining the world’s best talent. As Francophone minority communities face significant demographic and economic challenges, the governments of Canada and Manitoba are joining forces to strengthen official language minority communities by addressing their labour needs and fostering their economic and linguistic vitality.
Parliamentary Secretary Fragiskatos to announce support for food security in Windsor
Peter Fragiskatos, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, on behalf of the Honourable Heath MacDonald, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, will highlight the launch of the National Food Security Strategy to strengthen food systems in Windsor.
Minister Metlege Diab to make an announcement in Winnipeg
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will hold a press conference in Winnipeg to unveil an innovative project to strengthen Francophone immigration in Manitoba. A media availability will follow.
Statement by Minister Metlege Diab on Canada Day
“Each year on Canada Day, I reflect on how fortunate we are to call this country home—a place where diversity is celebrated, our values unite us, and our collective identity comes to life through our official languages and the experiences we share. The occasion is a time to celebrate what brings us together, take pride in our communities and look to the future with confidence as we build an even better Canada for the generations that will follow us."
Minister Diab to participate in a Canada Day citizenship ceremony in Ottawa (morning)
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will welcome 50 of Canada’s newest citizens from 26 different countries at a special Canada Day citizenship ceremony. Citizenship Judge Rania Sfeir will preside over the ceremony.
Minister Diab to participate in a Canada Day citizenship ceremony in Ottawa (afternoon)
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will welcome 50 of Canada’s newest citizens from 21 different countries at a special Canada Day citizenship ceremony. Citizenship Judge Rania Sfeir will preside over the ceremony.
Federal–Provincial–Territorial Immigration Ministers meet to discuss sustainable immigration
The Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration (FMRI) met today to advance collaboration on the 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan and discuss federal–provincial–territorial (FPT) priorities. They discussed returning immigration to sustainable levels while considering regional, rural and northern contexts, addressing labour shortages, reinforcing key economic sectors, and supporting communities across the country. Ministers also discussed the role of Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in advancing these considerations and the need for stable and adequate PNP allocations.
Minister Diab to hold media availability following meeting of the Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, alongside her provincial and territorial counterparts, will hold a press conference following a meeting of the Forum of Ministers Responsible for Immigration (FMRI). Minister Diab will be joined by the Honourable Lin Paddock, Minister of Immigration for Newfoundland and Labrador and Provincial-Territorial FMRI Co-Chair.
Canada marks World Refugee Day and reflects on 75 years of refugee protection
On World Refugee Day, Canada recognizes the 75th anniversary of the 1951 Refugee Convention and the international refugee protection system it created, including the principle that people have the right to seek safety from persecution.
Canada proposes new regulations to modernize the asylum process and support timely decisions
Building on recent measures to strengthen Canada’s immigration and asylum systems, and recent decreases in asylum claim volumes, the Government of Canada is taking further action to maintain a fair, orderly and well-managed asylum system.
Canada proposes new regulations to modernize the asylum process and support timely decisions
Canada continues to improve its asylum system so that it is fair, transparent and sustainable over the long-term.
Canada strengthens borders while supporting economic and tourism ties with Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon
Canada and the French overseas collectivity of Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon share strong travel, tourism and economic ties, particularly in Atlantic Canada. We work closely to support safe, efficient travel while strengthening the security and integrity of our shared travel routes.
Canada strengthens borders while supporting economic and tourism ties with Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon
As part of Canada’s Border Plan, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and its partners have strengthened screening, increased information sharing, and enhanced fraud detection to help identify non-genuine travellers and protect the integrity of Canada’s immigration and asylum systems. In 2025, Canada also strengthened authorities to cancel eTAs, visas, and work or study permits in specific circumstances on a case-by-case basis.
Canada strengthens Indo‑Pacific ties through changes to visa requirements for eligible travellers from Indonesia and Malaysia
The Government of Canada is seeking to diversify Canada’s trade partners to support a stronger, more resilient economy. Safely increasing mobility between Canada and its trade partners helps support these efforts.
Canada strengthens Indo-Pacific ties through changes to visa requirements for eligible travellers from Indonesia and Malaysia
As Canada continues to deepen its trade, investment and strategic partnerships across the Indo Pacific, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced today that Canada will make changes to visa requirements for eligible citizens from Indonesia and Malaysia starting tomorrow, May 26, 2026, at 5:30 a.m. Eastern Time.
Building the workforce needed to deliver more homes in Halifax
In Budget 2025, we outlined our plan to build Canada Strong.
Minister Diab to highlight housing investments from the Spring Economic Update 2026
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will hold a press conference in Dartmouth to highlight housing investments from the Spring Economic Update 2026: Canada Strong For All that will help build more homes in Nova Scotia by growing the skilled workforce, speeding up construction and supporting modern methods of construction.
Canada announces new international migration capacity-building projects
As part of its ongoing work with international partners, Canada is investing in projects that help improve how migration is managed around the world. These investments support safe, orderly and regular migration, while also helping countries better integrate newcomers. This includes supporting better migration systems, training officials, and expanding safe and regular pathways for people to move between countries.
Canada and global partners take action to advance migration priorities
Canada is working with partners around the world to strengthen migration systems and address shared challenges. This week, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, led Canada’s delegation to the International Migration Review Forum (IMRF) 2026 at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
Canada strengthens regulation of immigration and citizenship consultants
The Government of Canada is strengthening protections for people seeking immigration and citizenship advice by improving access to trustworthy, quality representation. Today, the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, announced new regulations that have come into force to enhance the oversight of immigration and citizenship consultants in Canada.
Understanding the one-time In-Canada Workers Initiative
The In-Canada Workers Initiative will accelerate permanent residence applications in our inventories for individuals who are already contributing to Canada’s economy across a wide range of in-demand sectors, including in rural areas and communities with labour gaps. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will continue to process applications within existing levels space for workers who have applied for permanent residence but are not eligible under this initiative.
Filling labour gaps in smaller communities by accelerating permanent residence for 33,000 workers
Canada continues to bring our immigration system to sustainable levels and focus immigration on the areas where it has the greatest impact. This means supporting rural and remote communities that are experiencing labour shortages in key economic sectors.
Minister Diab highlights sport investments from Spring Economic Update 2026: Canada Strong for All to build stronger and safer communities
In Budget 2025, the Government of Canada outlined its plan to build Canada strong. Since then, we have moved fast to build the major infrastructure, homes and industries that grow Canada’s economy and create lasting prosperity; empower Canadians with better careers and a more affordable life; and protect our communities, our borders and our way of life.
Minister Diab to highlight Spring Economic Update 2026 sport investments in Timberlea
Timberlea, Nova Scotia, May 1, 2026—The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will hold a press conference in Timberlea to highlight recent sport investments from the Spring Economic Update 2026: Canada Strong for All, focused on building stronger and safer communities.
Minister Diab concludes Citizenship Week 2026 by welcoming new Canadians
Citizenship Week is an opportunity to reflect on what it means to be Canadian, celebrate the people who choose to call Canada home and recognize the Indigenous Peoples who have lived on this land since time immemorial.
Minister Diab to participate in a special citizenship ceremony for Citizenship Week
The Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, will welcome 30 of Canada’s newest citizens from 18 different countries at a special ceremony to mark Citizenship Week. Citizenship Judge Joan Mahoney will preside over the ceremony. Citizenship Week, taking place from April 12 to 18, is an opportunity to celebrate the rights and responsibilities shared by all Canadian citizens. During Citizenship Week, Canadians across the country and around the world show their pride in their history, culture, achievements and shared citizenship.
Celebrating Canadian Citizenship: Unity, Belonging and Building Our Nation Together
“Citizenship Week is an opportunity for people across Canada to reflect on what unites us as Canadians. As Minister, and a proud Canadian of Lebanese origin, I am especially pleased to recognize and celebrate our newest citizens this week.”
Canada launches measures to support those impacted by domestic natural disasters
Canada continues to face the growing impacts of climate change, with extreme weather conditions becoming more frequent and severe. Communities across the country have responded to these challenges with resilience and strength, and the Government of Canada remains committed to supporting those affected.
Canada extends certain work permit measures for Ukrainians
As Russia's illegal war against Ukraine continues, Canada continues to support Ukrainian people who are here contributing to our communities and labour market.
Canada begins new “30 days or free” guarantee for passport processing
The Government of Canada is strengthening accountability for passport processing by introducing a new guarantee for passport services.
New immigration and asylum measures from Bill C-12 (the Strengthening Canada’s Immigration System and Borders Act) have become law
Bill C-12 received royal assent and has become law, strengthening Canada’s immigration and asylum systems in 4 key areas
Statement from Minister Metlege Diab on the Auditor General of Canada’s report on international student reforms
“I thank the Office of the Auditor General for its audit of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s reforms to the International Student Program."
Canada is celebrating the Francophonie and investing in new initiatives to promote Francophone immigration outside Quebec
The Government of Canada has made supporting Francophone and Acadian minority communities outside Quebec a top priority. The goal is to attract and integrate skilled French-speaking and bilingual immigrants from around the world to boost population growth, meet labour needs and support economic development in these communities.
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