News. For Newcomers | July 15, 2026

IRCC has already issued more than 97,000 Express Entry invitations in 2026, putting this year on track to become the busiest in the program’s history. Just 17,124 more invitations would break the current annual record set in 2021.

While no one knows exactly how many more invitations IRCC will issue this year, recent draw activity shows no sign of slowing down. Keep in mind that more invitations don’t guarantee everyone will receive one – your chances still depend on your CRS score and whether you qualify for category-based draws like Canadian Experience Class or French-language proficiency.

Over the past month, IRCC processing times have remained relatively stable. Processing times for Express Entry’s CEC have dropped to six months (down from seven in June), and FSW remains unchanged at an average of seven months. Provincial nominees applying through Express Entry are now being processed in an average of seven months (up from six in June), while non-Express Entry PNPs are now being processed faster – in an average of 12 months.

Spousal sponsorship processing times continue to tick up. Inland applications now take an average of 27 months, up from 26 months in June and 25 months in May. Outland applications have also ticked up to an average of 17 months, up from 16 months in June.

For temporary residents – students, workers, and visitors – the range of processing times remains stable month-over-month.

IRCC has extended its pause on new applications for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), meaning Canadians still cannot submit a new interest to sponsor form or apply to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residence.

The pause on new Interest to Sponsor forms has been in place since 2020, and IRCC has not said when the program will reopen. Applications already in the system will continue to be processed, with up to 15,000 people expected to receive permanent residence through the PGP in 2026.

If you’re hoping to invite your parents or grandparents for longer than six months, the Super Visa remains an option. It allows eligible parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to five years at a time, though it does not lead to permanent residence.

A new Canadian study found that many temporary foreign workers struggle to use their education and work experience after arriving in Canada. Researchers say workers who lose or change their immigration status often end up in lower-paying jobs, face more financial stress, and have fewer opportunities to build a long-term career.

The study also highlights the importance of maintaining valid immigration status and having clear pathways to permanent residence. While the federal government says temporary workers can extend or restore their status in some cases and continues to prioritise pathways to permanent residence for eligible workers already in Canada, researchers say more support is needed to help workers use their skills and avoid long periods of uncertainty.

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The next Canada Child Benefit (CCB) payment arrives on July 20, and some families could see a higher payment than before.

This month’s payment starts the new CCB benefit year, meaning the CRA has updated payments based on your 2025 family income and increased the maximum benefit amounts to keep up with inflation.

Eligible families can receive up to:

Newcomers may also qualify. Permanent residents can apply as soon as they meet the eligibility rules, while many temporary residents become eligible after living in Canada for 18 consecutive months.

If you receive the CCB, check your CRA account to see your updated payment amount before July 20.

A new survey found that more than half of Canadians have delayed major decisions because of concerns about the economy and job security. Career plans are also being affected, with many people avoiding job changes, taking on extra work, or feeling less secure in their current role.

For newcomers building a career in Canada, this is a reminder to plan carefully before making a move. Research the job market, update your resume, build your network, and make sure you have some savings before leaving a stable role. Explore our careers guides for practical tips on finding work and growing your career in Canada.

If you’re moving money to Canada, the way you transfer it can make a big difference. Banks often charge higher fees or offer weaker exchange rates, meaning less money ends up in your account. Before you send funds, compare your options, check the total cost, and see how long the transfer will take.

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