February 17, 2026 Edition
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Your Immigration Updates
IRCC just ran another big CEC draw, issuing 6,000 ITAs with a CRS cut-off of 508 – the lowest score we’ve seen since August 2024. But don’t get too comfortable. Even with the dip, competition in the 501–600 range is heating up again, and the high 400s to low 500s are still crowded.
We’ve put together a full breakdown of the draw details, key numbers, trends, and what it could mean for your PR plans this year.
Immigration scams are getting more convincing, and some scammers even use fake IRCC letters to win your trust. If a document “from IRCC” feels off, take a pause and double-check before you pay anything or share personal info.
Watch for red flags like:
odd wording, heavy legal jargon, or a tone that doesn’t sound like IRCC
spelling/grammar mistakes
details that don’t add up (example: saying you’ll leave Canada, but still demanding a medical in a weird context)
instructions to pay money to a person’s bank account
Scams can also target international students with fake admission letters. If you’re unsure, contact the school directly and be cautious if anyone tells you not to.
If you’re working with a representative, make sure they’re licensed (RCIC or a Canadian lawyer). When in doubt, check your IRCC portal or reach out to IRCC to verify the document.
Immigration In The Media
A new report from Northern Policy Institute says Northern Ontario can’t afford to lose international students. The report warns that in most Northern regions, deaths outnumber births. So without immigration and temporary residents, the population and local economy would shrink.
The report says the population growth from 2021 to 2025 shows that Canada’s push to bring newcomers beyond the big cities is working. It recommends more permanent immigration in Northern Ontario and more stable numbers of temporary residents. It also calls for long-term, community-led immigration programs that match local job needs.
It argues that if Canada is cutting student and worker numbers, the biggest cuts should happen in large cities, not in rural and northern areas. And where Northern colleges and universities have space, they should bring in more international students again.
Money Matters: Why Newcomers Often Retire Later
If you’re new to Canada, start planning for retirement early, even if it feels far away. Many newcomers retire later because they’ve had fewer years to pay into CPP and less time to rebuild savings after moving.
Here are a few smart moves to help you catch up:
Start saving small, but consistently. Set up an automatic transfer (even $25–$50 per paycheque) into a TFSA or RRSP.
Use employer benefits if you have them. If your workplace offers a pension plan or RRSP matching, join as soon as you can – it’s one of the fastest ways to grow savings.
Know what you’re working with. Check your CPP contribution history so you understand what you may receive later.
Small, consistent savings now can mean more choice later.
Career Moves: Informational Interviews in 2026: The Secret to Landing a Job in Canada?
Looking for a job in Canada in 2026? An informational interview can help. It’s a short, casual chat with someone who works in the job or industry you want.
It’s not a job interview, and you’re not asking for a job. You’re asking questions like: What does a normal day look like? What skills matter most? What would you focus on if you were starting now?
You can set one up by messaging a former coworker, a friend-of-a-friend, or someone on LinkedIn. Keep it polite, keep it short, and ask for 20–30 minutes.
After the chat, send a quick thank-you message. Then stay in touch once in a while. Over time, that connection can turn into real leads.
Today's Tip: Rent First, Buy When You’re Ready
If you’re new to Canada, renting first can give you time to settle in, build credit, and understand the housing market before making a big commitment. Homeownership can build wealth over time, but it also comes with upfront costs, maintenance, property taxes, and mortgage risk.
Rent if you’re still exploring cities, building income, or saving for a down payment.
Buy when you have stable income, good credit, emergency savings, and plan to stay put for a few years.
There’s no “right” answer for everyone. The best choice is the one that fits your finances, lifestyle, and long-term plans, not just what others are doing. Read our guide to decide if renting or buying makes more sense for you, plus tips on budgeting, credit, and avoiding rental scams.
