News. For Newcomers | July 28, 2026

IRCC has released new monthly data showing that 128,865 people became permanent residents between January and May 2026. Economic immigration, including Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), accounted for the largest share of new permanent residents, while family sponsorship remains on track.

The new data gives applicants a clearer picture of how Canada is progressing toward its 2026 target of 380,000 permanent residents. We break down the latest numbers by immigration category, compare them with previous years, and explain what they could mean for future immigration draws and processing trends.

Eligible Canadians aged 16 and over can now renew their passports online from anywhere in Canada. The expanded service means you no longer need to visit a Service Canada office or mail in your application if you meet the eligibility requirements.

To renew online, you’ll need a digital passport photo, two references, and a credit card to pay the fee. Most applications are expected to be processed within 20 business days, and the new 30 business days or it’s free guarantee applies to eligible renewals.

The Government of Canada has updated its average LMIA processing times for June 2026. Processing times continue to vary depending on the stream:

Remember that these timelines only cover the LMIA decision. You’ll also need to factor in IRCC processing times for your work permit application.

An internal IRCC report says applications from Indian international students have fallen sharply since Canada tightened study permit rules and ended open work permits for most spouses of undergraduate students. The report also raised concerns about cases where marriages of convenience were allegedly used to obtain spousal work permits, as well as issues with language test integrity among some applicants.

The report suggests some prospective students are now choosing countries such as Germany that still allow spouses to accompany them with work rights. IRCC says the changes were introduced to strengthen the integrity of Canada’s international student program and that immigration officers continue to investigate suspected fraud.

Several CRA benefit payments are arriving in August, providing extra financial support for eligible Canadians and newcomers. If you filed your 2025 tax return, your payment amounts may have changed based on your income or family situation.

Our article explains who qualifies, how much you could receive, and when to expect your payment, including:

It also explains how CRA calculates these benefits and why filing your tax return each year is essential to keep receiving payments.

A new report from the Canadian Federation of Independent Business (CFIB) looks at why many small businesses still can’t find enough workers, even though youth unemployment is high. The report says the problem isn’t simply a lack of young people looking for jobs. Instead, many available jobs don’t match where young people want to work or the type of work they’re willing to do.

Many Temporary Foreign Workers (TFWs) fill jobs that are physically demanding, seasonal, in rural areas, or require overnight shifts. These are often roles that employers struggle to fill with local workers. It also found that most young Canadians are unwilling to relocate for work. Only 19% said they would move to another city for a service job and just 8% were willing to move to a rural community.

The report also highlights how the TFW Program helps keep many small businesses operating and supports other Canadian jobs. As well as calling for changes to improve youth employment and make it easier for employers to fill hard-to-staff roles.

An eSIM lets you activate a Canadian phone plan without needing a physical SIM card. If your phone is compatible, you can set up your service before you arrive in Canada and have a local number ready as soon as you land. It’s a simple option for newcomers, international students, and anyone who wants to stay connected from day one.

Our guide explains how eSIMs work, which phones support them, how to set one up, and what to expect when choosing a plan. We also compare costs, highlight the pros and cons, and share tips to help you choose the right provider.

Looking for a Canadian phone plan? Our partner PhoneBox offers flexible, no-contract plans with $30 off your first payment, plus the option to activate your eSIM before you arrive.