News. For Newcomers | March 31, 2026

IRCC has issued 2,250 invitations in a new Canadian Experience Class draw held on March 31. Candidates needed a minimum CRS score of 509 to receive an invitation.

While this round was smaller than recent CEC draws, it adds to what has already been an active year for Canadian Experience Class candidates. In just the first three months of 2026, IRCC has issued 30,250 CEC invitations, already close to the 33,850 total CEC invitations issued in all of 2025.

The higher cut-off in this latest round is a reminder that competition in the Express Entry pool remains strong. We’ve broken down what this draw could mean for your chances, along with key insights and next steps, in our full analysis.

Permanent residence fees are going up again. Starting April 30, 2026, IRCC will charge more for most permanent residence applications, including economic programs, family sponsorship, and humanitarian cases. The Right of Permanent Residence Fee will also rise from $575 to $600.

The new fees only apply to applications submitted after April 30. If you already applied and paid all your fees, you will not have to pay more. But if you still need to pay your Right of Permanent Residence Fee after that date, you will have to pay the new amount. This matters because you cannot officially become a permanent resident until that fee is paid.

For many applicants, the increase is small, but it can still add up for families. That is why it is important to make sure your application is complete and submitted on time. IRCC says the fee increases help cover rising costs and keep up with inflation.

A U.K.-trained midwife who completed UBC’s bridging program says she is giving up on staying in B.C. after IRCC denied her work permit for a second time, first over a missing English test, and then because federal officials allegedly would not recognize the UBC program she completed.

Since UBC says the program has supported more than 80 graduates since 2015, and is the only route for internationally trained midwives to become certified in the province.

The case raises bigger concerns for internationally educated midwives, as it reflects wider challenges faced by foreign-trained health workers in Canada, where many struggle with credential recognition and licensing despite strong demand for their skills.  

Falling rents in some parts of Canada could give renters more room to negotiate, especially if similar units in the same building are now going for much less. For good tenants, asking for a lower rent may be worth considering before making the bigger decision to move.

The strongest approach is to be polite, realistic, and clear. A written message that highlights your payment history, your reliability as a tenant, and the current rental market may help open the conversation. In some cases, staying put and negotiating could save money without the cost and stress of moving.

New to Canada and figuring out the rental market? Our guide to renting in Canada covers what newcomers need to know.

You do not need a job offer to start building Canadian work experience. Volunteering, internships, and short training programs can all help you learn how workplaces in Canada work and give you something local to add to your resume.

This kind of experience can also help you meet people, build confidence, and get referrals for future jobs. Your international experience still matters, but Canadian experience can make it easier for employers to understand your skills. Start small, stay consistent, and remember that networking is just as important as experience.

If IELTS is part of your study, work, or immigration plan, try to book your test at least two to three months before your deadline. That gives you more time to choose a test centre, pick the format that works best for you, and get your results without last-minute stress.

With test centres across Canada and both paper and computer options available, booking early can make the whole process much smoother. Ready to take the next step? Book your IELTS test with IDP today and move closer to your goals in Canada.