News. For Newcomers | December 18, 2025

Express Entry has changed a lot in recent years, and 2026 is shaping up to be another important year. Some updates are already confirmed, while others are still being discussed.

Here’s what applicants should know right now:

Some details, like how often draws will happen and which jobs will be prioritized, are still unclear.

If you’ve been wondering whether Canada’s tighter rules for international students and temporary workers are actually having an impact. Well, October’s numbers give a clear answer.

New international student arrivals fell to just 3,030 in October, the lowest level since IRCC began publishing this data. Work permit arrivals dropped again, too. At the same time, Statistics Canada has confirmed the largest drop in non-permanent residents on record. Big enough to cause a rare dip in Canada’s overall population.

What’s interesting is that while fewer new people are arriving, many are staying longer. Extensions and slower transitions to permanent residence mean the total temporary resident population hasn’t fallen yet.

Immigration policy changes are now showing up in real ways across Canada. We’re seeing it in population numbers, the job market, and housing trends. These aren’t long-term forecasts anymore. They’re happening now, and they’re likely to shape how 2026 looks as well.

We’ve already had back-to-back Express Entry draw weeks in December 2025. But will there be another week of large draws this month?

The reality is that no-one expect IRCC knows. But we surveyed our team to find out what they think.

Ontario has officially used all of its Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) spots for 2025. While no new nominations will count toward 2025, applications are still being processed, and any approvals from now on will roll into Ontario’s 2026 allocation.

Ontario will host fewer international students again in 2026, according to a new Global News report. The province’s cap is set at 70,074 students, which is 42% lower than last year. Most of these spots will go to public colleges and universities, with only a small share for private schools and language programs.

For students and newcomers, the big takeaway is that competition for study permits in Ontario is increasing. With fewer spots available, competition is getting tighter, and schools are feeling it. Some have already cut programs and staff as international tuition dollars shrink.

Ontario says it will still focus on students in high-demand fields, so choosing the right program (and the right timing) matters now more than ever.

Manitoba invited 63 candidates on December 18. More details will be covered in resources for newcomers this Sunday.

This newsletter is sponsored by our partner, Rentals.ca, Canada’s premier online marketplace for renters and landlords.

More people are turning to AI tools to help with budgeting, tracking spending, and managing debt. When rent, groceries, and transportation cost more than expected, these tools can make budgeting feel easier. This is especially true if you’re still learning how the Canadian system works.

That said, AI tools don’t always understand newcomer realities. They may miss things like settlement costs, limited credit history, or different banking rules. AI can offer useful ideas, such as helping you plan a budget or understand where your money is going in Canada. But it’s smart to check important advice with trusted sources or a financial professional before making any big decisions.

If you’re new to Canada or just starting out, you’ve probably faced a tough question: do you hold out for an entry-level job in your field, or take a job that pays the bills right now? With the job market tighter heading into 2026, this decision is more common than ever.

In this article, we walk you through both options without judgment. Explain what entry-level and “survival” jobs really mean, how each can fit into your bigger plan, and whether taking short-term work can hurt your career (spoiler: usually not). If you’re trying to balance rent, stress, and long-term goals, this guide helps you think it through clearly and realistically.

Did you know that as a newcomer to Canada, you likely have an unexpected advantage in the rental market? You have a very helpful skill that you've gained from your immigration application: the ability to prepare an application that pre-empts questions and concerns. You did this with IRCC when you applied to immigrate to Canada. And you’ll need to do it now, from the perspective of the landlord.  

When you're applying for a rental home, think about what the landlord wants to see and know about you – and tailor your application to those specific things.

Of course, you want to include 'all the usual things' – likely ID, proof of income, and your credit report from Canada. You might also want to include your credit report from your home country, if applicable, reference letters from previous landlords in English or French, and a cover letter about your family, lifestyle, work, and addressing any concerns the landlord might have.

It's also helpful to:

Pro tip: get this ready before you tour any homes so you're ready to move quickly if you find a place you like.

Keen to find our other tips for finding a rental home in Canada as a newcomer? Don't miss our dedicated piece.