December 11, 2025 Edition
Today’s newsletter is brought to you by our trusted partner, Rentals.ca
Your Immigration Update
Good news for candidates in the Healthcare and Social Services category waiting in the pool. Today’s draw invited 1,000 applicants with a CRS cut-off of 476, marking the seventh round for this category in 2025 and possibly the last.
Find out more in our detailed analysis of this draw and what healthcare and social services candidates should keep an eye on heading into 2026.
After yesterday’s Canadian Experience Class draw, the question on everyone’s mind is what this means for the CRS cut-offs in 2026.
We looked into the state of the Express Entry pool across 2025 to work out whether the CRS for Canadian Experience Class draws is likely to fall further in 2026. We learned:
The Express Entry pool has increased in size over 2025, and it appears it may keep growing in 2026.
The 501-600 range is growing in size, but there’s intense competition at the 451-500 range. This means we’re likely to see a steady stream of people achieving scores of 501+ throughout 2026.
We think the CRS score might drop (in certain circumstances), but it may not be as dramatic a decrease as you might hope.
Immigration In The Media
Study permit approval rates have fallen. IRCC's strict limits for 2026 mean applications now compete for fewer spots. In this week’s Borderlines episode, the hosts explained what this means for students. And why refusals are becoming more common. We listened to it and pulled out these actionable takeaways for those considering applying for a study permit in the near future:
Provide a clear, logical study plan written by you that explains why the program fits your background, why you need to study in Canada instead of at home, and how it will benefit your career even if you return after graduation.
Show consistent, realistic temporary intent by demonstrating ties to your home country and avoiding contradictions between what you state in your application and your future immigration steps.
Address common refusal triggers early—such as cheaper or similar programs available at home, or unclear reasons for pausing an established career—by offering practical evidence for why studying in Canada is necessary and worthwhile.
Note: we don’t agree with everything in this podcast (especially the dual-intent commentary about past applications). But it’s a good reminder that information you hear about what worked in the past for applications to IRCC does not necessarily apply today.
Did Someone Say Draw
Quebec issues 1,870 Invitations in its Largest Arrima Draw of 2025 on December 4.
BC invited 410 candidates in a Skills Immigration draw on December 10. This draw saw a decrease in both wage requirements for high-wage roles and points needed for the points category. Learn more about this draw.
Ontario invited 1,133 candidates across the Foreign Worker, International Student, and In-Demand Skills streams.
This newsletter is sponsored by our partner, Rentals.ca, Canada’s premier online marketplace for renters and landlords.
Money Matters: Confidence, Not Price, Is Holding Toronto Buyers Back
The latest Toronto housing market update notes that sales, listings, and prices are all down from last year. Many buyers want to benefit from lower prices and borrowing costs. However, job uncertainty appears to be making them cautious.
Broadly speaking, November's strong job numbers are a positive sign. If this trend continues, confidence may grow, and more buyers could return to the market in 2026 (which may push prices up). For now, the upside is there’s plenty of choice and room for negotiation for anyone ready to make a move. (The Bank of Canada’s recent decision to hold the interest rate doesn’t hurt either!)
If you’re getting ready to buy a home in Canada, check out our newcomer’s guide to getting a mortgage.
Career Moves: How to Use Jobs Boards in Canada
If you’re job hunting in Canada right now, you’ve probably noticed the market feels tighter than it did a year ago. There are fewer vacancies and more competition. That’s why this week’s guide breaks down something every newcomer needs to master: using job boards the right way.
We cover which platforms actually help you get noticed, how to avoid the “Easy Apply trap,” and why company career pages might secretly be your best friend. Whether you’re just starting out or rebuilding your strategy, these tips can help you stand out in a crowded market.
Today's Tip: Before You Sign, Check the Guest Rules
Before you sign your lease, ask what the guest policy is – especially for longer stays – and whether it’s written anywhere (lease, building rules, strata bylaws). Newcomers often have friends or family visit for longer than a weekend, so it's important to know what the lease says about short-term guests.
Asking this simple question can help you make sure you won’t be blindsided by complaints, warnings, or neighbour or landlord drama later. If it’s a condo/strata, request the relevant bylaws so you can confirm the rules yourself.
Want the full list of questions that protect your lifestyle (not just your budget)? Read our article covering the questions you should ask your landlord before sign.
