Starting April 1, 2026, employers utilizing the low-wage stream to hire foreign talent must implement targeted recruitment strategies to attract domestic youth. This update accompanies a complex framework of existing regulations, including a $1,000 processing fee, strict 10 to 20
Effective March 23, 2026, spouses of temporary foreign workers employed on Significant Investment Projects in British Columbia are eligible for open work permits regardless of the principal worker’s skill level. This major policy update exempts applicants from standard validity rules
The Office of Immigration and Multiculturalism in Newfoundland and Labrador has released new prioritization criteria for its Expression of Interest system, aiming to improve transparency and target critical labour shortages. The update outlines nine key priority areas, including healthcare, rural
Federal authorities have announced time-limited updates to the Temporary Foreign Worker program, allowing eligible rural employers to temporarily increase their low-wage foreign workforce cap from 10% to 15%. Initiated to combat persistent regional labour shortages, these measures require strict compliance
Federal authorities have introduced new temporary immigration measures granting eligible skilled workers a 12-month work permit extension and allowing rural employers to increase their hiring of low-wage temporary foreign workers up to 15%, aligning with the national goal of stabilizing
Ontario has launched Canada’s first Occupational Exposure Registry, allowing workers to anonymously log exposure to 11 hazardous substances, download records, and support prevention and future medical assessment.
New Brunswick introduced new NB PNP intake restrictions effective February 3, 2026, stopping consideration and invitations for many candidates in NAICS 72 and several retail and other occupations across both Express Entry and Skilled Worker streams, with limited exceptions for
Canada has announced a new Express Entry category and 5,000 reserved PR spots for foreign-trained doctors with recent Canadian work experience or job offers. The measures aim to stabilize the healthcare system and address growing shortages, especially in underserved areas.
Ontario has announced a bold two-phase redesign of its provincial immigration program, aiming to simplify the OINP and align it more closely with labour market and demographic priorities. Phase one consolidates existing job offer streams into two tracks based on
The Government of Canada is launching a major inspection blitz in the trucking sector to combat illegal worker misclassification in Ontario. The move aims to enforce federal labour standards, ensure truck drivers are treated as employees when appropriate, and crack
Ontario has suspended its Express Entry: Skilled Trades Stream due to widespread concerns over misrepresentation and fraud. All outstanding applications will be returned with fees refunded. Applicants can explore other OINP streams as alternatives while the program undergoes reform. Experts
The 2025 B.C. Labour Market Outlook forecasts more than one million job openings over the next decade, with employment rising from 2.9 million to 3.3 million by 2035. Five industries will generate 58 percent of these jobs and 77 percent
New government data show a 50 percent drop in Temporary Foreign Worker Program applications, a 70 percent fall in the low wage stream, and record penalties including a 1 million dollar fine and 10 year ban. With 1,435 inspections and
Canada plans to require certain International Mobility Program applicants to submit official language test scores as part of upcoming regulatory amendments. The change aims to improve workforce integration and increase the long-term success of temporary foreign workers, while helping employers
Ontario has implemented sweeping changes to its Provincial Nominee Program (OINP) starting July 1, 2025, introducing a new employer-led portal, in-person interviews, and increased authority to return applications. These updates enhance program integrity and prioritize job-ready applicants aligned with Ontario’s
