News. For Newcomers | December 4, 2025

Canada’s immigration slowdown is starting to have real impacts, the ones policymakers were aiming for. With housing, transit, and public services stretched, Ottawa pulled back on temporary residents and trimmed permanent resident targets. The results? Population growth has cooled, rental markets are softening, and labour pressures have steadied.

What does this reset mean if you’re waiting to move, hunting for housing, or planning your next step toward PR? Our latest article digs into what’s driving these shifts, where relief is showing up fastest, and what to watch next as Canada recalibrates.

If you’ve ever logged into your IRCC account, spotted “Application/Profile Updated,” and then found nothing new inside, you’re in good company. That heart-skip moment is what applicants call a ghost update.

Ghost updates can pop up across all kinds of files, and they’re notorious for causing unnecessary panic. Here’s the good news: they’re usually harmless. Still, it helps to know what they mean and how to respond, so you can tell the difference between a routine system blip and something worth your attention.

Did you know each province in Canada has its own landlord and tenant rights? Ontario's have been in the news recently, with the passing of Bill 60, which has proved to be quite controversial. You can read some of the critiques of the bill in this CBC article.

Some of the terms that have Ontario's renters a little nervous include:

Read more about renting in Canada in our dedicated article.

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With rising costs across Canada, many people this holiday season are planning to spend more on gifts, food, and travel than usual. When prices feel higher all around, even small changes in how you plan can keep spending steady. Try spreading out purchases, setting a clear limit, and checking your budget as you go. A quick look at your favourite budgeting app can help prevent overspending, and homemade gifts or shared experiences can be just as meaningful.

Holiday scams are also on the rise, so stick with trusted retailers and be cautious with links that look rushed or too good to be true. Simple habits like these can help you enjoy the season without carrying financial stress into January.

If you’re new to Canada, performance reviews can feel intimidating, especially if formal check-ins are new to you. But they’re one of the best chances to show your impact and ask for support. Come prepared: track your wins, bring a few clear examples, and think about what training or resources would help you grow. Feedback isn’t personal here — managers are expected to give it, and you’re expected to use it.

Canadian workplaces value people who communicate their goals, so don’t hesitate to discuss new responsibilities or salary growth. For a fuller walkthrough, our performance review guide breaks everything down for newcomers.

Toronto’s talking about e-bike licences, and it’s making many delivery workers, especially newcomers nervous. On paper it sounds simple, but riders worry about qualifying or having the documents a licensing office might expect. It could make getting started harder, but it might also fix the insurance gaps that leave workers unprotected.

If you ride an e-bike, keep an eye on the rules and make sure you understand the legal requirements.