May 6, 2026 Edition
Today’s newsletter is brought to you by our trusted partner, Cigna Healthcare
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We’re excited to share that Rebecca Major and Stephanie Ford from our team have been named Mondaq Spring 2026 Thought Leadership Award winners. This recognition reflects their ongoing commitment to providing trusted immigration and settlement guidance for newcomers to Canada.
Congratulations Rebecca and Stephanie on this well-deserved achievement!
Your Immigration Update
Canada is creating a new compensation fund for people who lost money because of dishonest licensed immigration consultants. The new rules will take effect on July 15, 2026, and could help victims recover some of their financial losses.
Key Takeaways:
The fund will cover dishonest acts by licensed immigration consultants (RCICs and RISIAs).
It can apply to cases going back to November 23, 2021.
Examples include a licensed immigration consultant creating or providing false documents.
Some victims may be contacted automatically by the CICC and won’t need to apply themselves.
The fund only applies to licensed consultants – not ghost consultants or unlicensed agents.
If you work with an immigration consultant, always check that they are licensed with the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) before paying for services.
Quebec will reinstate its popular PEQ immigration program for two years, but many details remain unknown. PEQ helps people who studied or worked in Quebec apply for permanent residence in Canada if they can demonstrate strong French-language skills.
The program closed in November 2025, causing protests from many people hoping to stay in Quebec permanently. Now, Quebec’s new premier, Christine Fréchette, says the program will return, but the government has not announced when it will reopen or how many people will be accepted.
People interested in applying are encouraged to prepare their documents early, as the program could become very competitive once applications reopen.
Immigration In The Media
Canada’s immigration system gives permanent residence applicants points based on age. Right now, people over 45 get no age points, even if they have strong education, work experience, or skills Canada needs.
The article argues that age-based points may be unfair because Canada’s Charter protects people from age discrimination. It also says the policy is based on weak assumptions. Older immigrants may still work, support family businesses, care for grandchildren, and contribute to Canada in many other ways.
Supporters of change say Canada should focus more on skills, experience, and real labour needs instead of lowering someone’s chances because of their age. As Canada reviews its immigration points system, this could be an important chance to rethink whether age should matter so much.
Read more on why Express Entry favours younger applicants over many experienced, highly skilled professionals.
Did Someone Say Draw
The BC PNP held a targeted Entrepreneur Immigration draw, issuing 8 Base and fewer than 5 Regional invitations.
Money Matters: Avoid Out-of-Pocket Medical Costs While Waiting for Health Coverage
Moving to Alberta? Don’t assume public healthcare starts right away. Newcomers must apply for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), coverage is not automatic. After applying, your coverage will usually begin on the first day of the third month after becoming a resident. That means you could face a gap where medical costs come out of pocket.
To avoid surprise bills, apply for AHCIP as soon as you arrive and consider private health insurance for your first few months. AHCIP covers many medically necessary services, like doctor visits and hospital care, but it does not cover everything. Prescription drugs, routine dental care, eye exams for most adults, and ambulance services may still cost extra.
If you’re looking for private insurance for your time in Canada, we recommend getting a quote from our trusted partner, Cigna Healthcare, if you’re staying 4+ months, or BestQuote if you’re looking for shorter-term coverage.
Career Moves: The Skills Canadian Employers Want in the AI Era
AI is changing what employers in Canada look for. A new KPMG survey found that many Canadian companies are already using AI agents, and more than half say this is changing how they hire workers.
Key Takeaways:
Employers are placing more value on skills like critical thinking, problem solving, and adaptability.
AI skills are becoming important across many industries, not just tech jobs.
Some companies expect workers to collaborate directly with AI tools and agents.
Businesses are starting to rethink hiring, promotions, and workplace roles because of AI.
Human skills like communication and judgment are becoming even more valuable.
For newcomers and job seekers, understanding how AI is affecting your industry could help you stay competitive in Canada’s changing job market. Read our guide on How AI Is Changing Canadian Jobs and How to Keep Up.
Today's Tip: Don’t Ignore Your 2026 Census Letter
If you’re new to Canada, don’t ignore your 2026 Census letter. Every five years, Canada asks households to complete the census to help plan services like healthcare, schools, housing, and public transit. The census is mandatory, and while fines are rare, people who do not complete it can technically be fined up to $1,000.
Statistics Canada is asking households to complete the 2026 Census by May 12, 2026. You can complete it online using the 16-digit code in your letter. Everyone living in your home should be included, including temporary residents like work or study permit holders. Completing it before the deadline will help avoid reminder calls, letters, and follow-up visits.
