News. For Newcomers | December 3, 2025

Ontario is introducing major changes to job posting rules that will make the hiring process fairer and more transparent for newcomers. Beginning January 1, 2026, many employers will no longer be allowed to require “Canadian work experience” in job ads or application forms – a barrier that has long kept skilled newcomers from being considered, even when they meet all other qualifications. Employers will also be required to include a clear salary range, disclose if they use AI to screen or assess applicants, and confirm whether the role being advertised is a real vacancy. After an interview, employers must inform candidates of the hiring decision within 45 days, reducing the frustrating “ghosting” that many job seekers experience.

These updates come from Ontario’s ongoing Working for Workers legislation, aimed at improving labour standards, promoting fairness, and supporting economic growth. For newcomers, the changes mean more transparent opportunities, stronger protections, and a hiring process that focuses more on skills and less on Canadian-specific experience.

As these rules roll out, they’re expected to help newcomers compete more equitably in Ontario’s job market and make informed choices about where to apply, what to expect, and how to confidently navigate their job search.

As of November 28, 2025, Nova Scotia has changed how it handles NSNP and AIP applications. Instead of processing applications in the order they arrive, every application – even ones already submitted – will now start as an Expression of Interest and go into an EOI pool.

From there, the province will hold regular draws to decide which files move forward. Who gets selected depends on current labour needs, how many nomination spots are left, and how full the pool is at the time. If your application is picked, it simply moves on to assessment – it’s not a guaranteed approval. And if you don’t hear anything? That just means your EOI application is still waiting in the pool.

This change brings Nova Scotia in line with what many other provinces already do and is designed to manage high demand more fairly.

If you’ve ever had an immigration application returned or rejected, you know how confusing the difference can feel. And knowing which one happened matters – not just for your next steps, but also for how you prepare future applications and answer IRCC’s questions down the line.

In our recently refreshed article, we unpack the difference in clear, simple terms and explain why IRCC treats these outcomes differently. We also outline what each one means for your overall immigration journey. It’s a quick guide to help you understand the process, avoid common pitfalls, and feel more confident the next time you hit “submit.”

Ontario is facing backlash after returning all Skilled Trades PR applications under the OINP, prompting more than 300 applicants to gather at Queen’s Park to protest the decision. The province cited “systemic misrepresentation and/or fraud” when it suspended the Express Entry Skilled Trades Stream and refunded all outstanding applications – a move that has left many applicants devastated and unsure of what comes next.

The Toronto Star reported that protesters said they followed every rule, yet now face job losses, expired permits, and the possibility of leaving Canada altogether. Many are urging the province to verify employment individually rather than returning all files at once. The situation highlights growing tension as provinces tighten program rules amid rising concerns about fraud and program vulnerability.

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Budgeting as a newcomer isn’t always straightforward – especially when you’re juggling rising costs, lifestyle changes, and the reality of starting over in a new country. In this personal breakdown, we walk through what a real 50/30/20 budget looks like for a newcomer household, a few years into life in Canada.

From mortgage costs and pet expenses to travel, savings, and the honest surprises of homeownership, this piece shows how the framework works in practice – and why it can help bring structure (and sanity) to your financial life in Canada.

If you’re job hunting in Canada and most of your professional contacts are still back home, don’t panic  – Canadian employers are used to international references. What matters most is choosing people who actually supervised you and can speak clearly about how you work. Before you share their names, check in with them, confirm the time zone, and make sure they’re ready for a quick call or email.

Newcomers often worry their references “won’t count,” but that’s rarely true. Employers simply want someone who knows your strengths, even if they’re halfway across the world. For a simple breakdown of choosing references, handling time zones, and building Canadian contacts, see How to Ask for Work References in Canada.

The first winter in Canada can feel challenging, but a few simple changes at home can make the season much more comfortable. Start by preparing your space and blocking drafts with weatherstripping or draft stoppers on doors and windows to help keep warm air inside.

Using a humidifier is also helpful, as indoor heating can make the air dry and uncomfortable. For this reason, some newcomers use eye drops and hydrating body cream to prevent dryness and irritation caused by cold wind and heating systems. Always consult your doctor before using any new products.

These small home tricks can make your space cozier, help you adapt to winter more easily, and keep you feeling your best.