News. For Newcomers | May 28, 2026

Canada’s immigration system has changed significantly since Mark Carney became Prime Minister, and a new policy tracker breaks down the biggest reforms introduced so far.

Key changes under the Carney government include:

Our tracker also explains how Canada’s immigration strategy is shifting toward slower growth in temporary residents and more selective economic immigration.

Skilled foreign workers in the U.S. may face more uncertainty in the green card process after a new USCIS memo signalled that some applicants could be asked to finish processing outside the country.

For workers on visas, this could make long-term planning harder. Canada is not a guaranteed backup plan, but it may be worth exploring if you have skilled work experience, strong English or French skills, higher education, or experience in an in-demand field.

If your U.S. green card path feels less certain, now may be a good time to review your Canadian immigration options before you urgently need a Plan B.

IRCC invited 4,500 French-speaking Express Entry candidates on May 28, with a CRS cut-off of 409, showing French proficiency remains one of the strongest advantages in Express Entry this year.

Greater Montréal could see its population decline by 2050, mainly because its population is aging and immigration levels are slowing. A new analysis says Montréal is expected to shrink by 1.3%, while Toronto and Vancouver are expected to keep growing.

Experts say immigration plays a major role in population growth, but it must be supported by strong settlement services, French-language training, housing, and job opportunities. Without steady immigration, Greater Montréal may struggle to maintain its working-age population as more residents age.

Many Canadians are surprised by how little retirement income government benefits provide on their own. According to recent data, the median after-tax income for individual seniors in Canada is about $2,617 per month, while the average Canada Pension Plan (CPP) payment is only about $772 per month. Even retirees receiving both CPP and Old Age Security (OAS) often collect closer to $1,500 per month before taxes.

For many retirees, workplace pensions, personal savings, and benefits like the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) help fill the gap. However, retirement income can vary widely depending on your work history, homeownership, and when you start taking CPP.

Many newcomers may have lower CPP payments in retirement because they have fewer years of Canadian work history and contributions. Our guide to the Canada Pension Plan explains how CPP works, who qualifies, and what newcomers should know when planning for retirement in Canada.

If you’re in Canada and want support in selecting the right accounts and starting your retirement savings journey, you can book an appointment with a Scotiabank Advisor.

Canada’s job market is becoming harder to break into, especially for young workers and those seeking entry-level roles. The Bank of Canada says hiring has slowed significantly, even though layoffs remain low, creating a “low-hire, low-fire” job market where fewer opportunities are opening up.

Canada’s unemployment rate has risen to 6.9%, while youth unemployment is now above 14%. The report also found that employers are increasingly looking for workers with experience and specialized skills, making it tougher for people starting their careers.

In a slower job market, gaining practical experience can make a big difference. Volunteering, internships, certifications, part-time work, and building in-demand skills may help improve your chances of finding work and staying competitive.

Settling in Canada can take longer than many newcomers expect. Moving countries means rebuilding your life in a new place – from finding housing and adjusting to a new job market, to making friends and learning how everyday systems work.

A 2025 survey found that 53% of respondents said it takes around five years to really feel settled in Canada, while 28% said it can take closer to 10 years.

Feeling more at home often comes down to small but important steps, such as building a community, finding stable work, and feeling confident with your money. From understanding banking basics to setting financial goals, the Scotiabank StartRight^® Program can support newcomers at each step of their banking journey in Canada.