News. For Newcomers | June 23, 2026

Canada’s immigration ministers met this week to discuss how the federal government and provinces can work together to address labour shortages and improve immigration programs.

Key discussion points included:

The press conference that followed also touched on the recent confusion surrounding citizenship-by-descent applications. Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab confirmed that IRCC is reviewing the situation, but questions remain about why some applicants were asked to return citizenship certificates before the policy changes were quickly reversed.

Thinking about switching schools in Canada? IRCC has clarified what this means for international students and their study permits.

If your study permit names your school, you must apply for a new study permit before moving to another designated learning institution. If you switch schools without doing this first, your current permit becomes invalid the day you leave your original school.

That means any studies at your new school could be considered unauthorised. This can affect future study or work permit applications.

If you are planning to transfer schools, apply for a new study permit first, before making the move.

CEC candidates finally received some good news today, as IRCC held its first Canadian Experience Class draw in nearly a month, issuing 4,000 invitations.

PEI issued 182 Labour & Express Entry invitations, bringing the province’s 2026 total to 658 invitations.

A new report says IRCC has reversed its request for some “Lost Canadians” to return their citizenship certificates.

Bridget Burnett, who received one of the original surrender letters along with her mother and son, told The Canadian Press her family felt “so much joy and relief” after IRCC emailed to confirm their citizenship was valid again. Still, she said the experience has left some uncertainty as her family prepares to move to Vancouver Island.

IRCC has said only “a few dozen” people were affected. This came shortly after IRCC clarified its citizenship-by-descent document rules. Applicants must use records from the original authority, not only genealogy websites or third-party databases.

Health insurance in Canada can protect newcomers from medical costs that are not covered by public healthcare. Provincial plans usually cover basic hospital and doctor services, but many everyday costs are not included.

Common extra costs can include:

Some newcomers also face a waiting period before public coverage starts. Without insurance, medical bills can quickly become expensive. Private health insurance can help cover these gaps and protect your budget while you settle in Canada. Our trusted partner, Cigna Healthcare, offers flexible plans to keep you protected for 4 months or more in Canada.

Canada needs hundreds of thousands of new skilled trades workers in the coming years, creating major opportunities for newcomers. While young Canadians at the recent Skills Canada competition highlighted the strong career prospects in trades, industry leaders say challenges like outdated stereotypes and apprenticeship barriers still exist.

Skilled trades remain one of Canada’s most in-demand career paths, with strong wages, job security, and immigration options available for eligible workers. Learn how newcomers can get started in Canada’s skilled trades sector.

Applying for a PEI Health Card should be one of your first steps after moving to Prince Edward Island. The card gives eligible residents access to publicly funded hospital and doctor services, but processing can take up to eight weeks.

Permanent residents, eligible temporary workers, and some international students can apply, depending on their status and documents. Coverage usually includes medically necessary care, but it does not cover everything. Prescription drugs, adult dental care, eye exams, and ambulance services may still cost extra.

Newcomers should apply as soon as possible and consider private health insurance while waiting for coverage.