News. For Newcomers | May 12, 2026

IRCC did not hold an Express Entry draw today, marking a break from its recent pattern of holding a CEC-specific draw every second Tuesday. One missed draw does not necessarily mean a major policy change is coming – IRCC has skipped expected draws before. But it is still notable because the number of high-scoring candidates in the pool is growing.

The latest update showed 15,659 candidates in the 501–600 CRS range, up from 13,860 just two weeks earlier. Recent CEC cut-offs have stayed between 507 and 515 points. If high-scoring candidates keep building up while draws become smaller or less frequent, future CRS cut-offs could face upward pressure. 

For now, CEC candidates should keep an eye on whether IRCC holds a draw later this week, how many ITAs are issued next, and how quickly the top of the pool continues to grow.

Canada’s Express Entry pool remains very competitive, with 233,770 active candidates as of May 10, 2026. Recent draws created movement across several CRS score ranges, but the pool is continuing to refill quickly as new candidates enter and improve their profiles.

Key trends from the latest pool breakdown include:

If your CRS score is below the most competitive ranges, now may be the time to look for ways to strengthen your profile. Improving your language scores, gaining Canadian work experience, or securing a provincial nomination could help increase your chances of receiving an invitation to apply.

IRCC has updated its instructions for Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) applications to give officers clearer guidance on how to review cases fairly. The rules for who can apply have not changed, but the update clarifies that officers should consider a person’s full situation, including the best interests of any affected children, rather than focusing only on hardship.

The new guidance also says that letters from family members should still be considered fairly, that officers must avoid bias, and that any internet research used in a decision must be properly recorded.

For applicants, the update shows why it is important to provide strong evidence and clearly explain their personal circumstances.

Canada’s changing immigration policies are leaving many temporary residents in limbo, even after years of studying, working, and building lives in the country. A new Toronto Star series highlights the stories of workers and graduates who believed they were on a clear path to permanent residence, only to face rising CRS scores, expiring permits, processing delays, and fewer immigration opportunities.

The stories include international graduates, engineers, caregivers, and tech workers who invested heavily in Canada but now face uncertainty about whether they can stay. Some are returning home, while others are trying expensive and stressful ways to improve their chances.

As Canada lowers immigration targets and tightens temporary resident programs, many are questioning what the country could lose if skilled workers and graduates decide to leave.

New Brunswick held five new draws under the New Brunswick Provincial Nominee Program (NBPNP) and the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP).

Newfoundland and Labrador invited 186 candidates across its provincial and Atlantic immigration pathways.

Building credit history is an important step for newcomers in Canada. A good credit score can make it easier to rent a home, get a loan, apply for a credit card, or access better interest rates.

Newcomers can start building credit by paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances low, avoiding too many credit applications, and using credit responsibly.

Programs like Scotiabank StartRight^® may also help eligible newcomers get their first Canadian credit card and begin building credit sooner. If you’re in Canada you can book an appointment with a Scotiabank advisor to learn more about credit and financial products that may support you.

Even though Canada’s unemployment rate rose in April, a tougher job market does not mean newcomers are out of options. Alongside applying for roles, it may be worth using this period to strengthen the skills employers are looking for. In 2026, some of the most employable skills in Canada include:

As AI reshapes workplaces and competition for jobs remains high, candidates who can learn new tools, adjust quickly, communicate clearly, and build strong professional connections may be better positioned to stand out.

The Government of Canada also offers a database of training programs to help people build these essential skills, with many options available for free and virtually.

If you’re covered under the Canadian Dental Care Plan (CDCP), don’t forget to renew your benefits before June 1, 2026. The program helps eligible people in Canada pay part of the cost of dental care, including cleanings, exams, fillings, x-rays, root canals, dentures, and some oral surgeries.

To keep your coverage, you must still meet the eligibility rules, including having a family income under $90,000, no access to dental insurance, and filing your 2025 Canadian tax return. Renewals can be completed in just a few minutes through your My Service Canada Account.

Our guide explains who qualifies for the CDCP, how much the program covers, what newcomers should know about tax residency rules, and what happens if you miss the renewal deadline.