News. For Newcomers | November 13, 2025

How Long Does It Take To Feel Settled in Canada After Immigrating? Adjusting to life in Canada takes time, and according to a recent LinkedIn survey, 53% said it takes about five years to feel truly settled. Another 28% said ten years, while 19% managed in two. Factors that most influence how quickly you settle include finding friends and community, achieving financial stability, and building career satisfaction. The early years can be exciting yet overwhelming, but small wins, like creating connections, hitting financial goals, and finding purpose at work, can make the journey smoother. Everyone’s timeline is different, but patience and planning make all the difference.

Canada just delivered welcome news for graduate students. From January 1, 2026, master’s and PhD programs at public universities will be exempt from study permit caps, and PhD applications will see 14-day processing times. The policy highlights Canada’s focus on attracting top research talent and strengthening its innovation pipeline.

We don’t often spotlight Quebec-specific policy, but The Montreal Gazette’s coverage of the province’s new immigration plan is worth noting. Immigration Minister Jean-François Roberge announced Quebec will welcome 45,000 permanent residents a year from 2026–2029, the highest of three options, yet below the 61,000 expected in 2025.

The story focuses on the strong pushback following the decision. Business groups warned the lower target will deepen labour shortages, arguing Quebec lacks enough workers to sustain growth. Opposition parties also criticized the scrapping of the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ), calling it short-sighted and harmful to attracting and retaining skilled talent.

ICYMI: Yesterday’s Express Entry draw invited 1000 CEC applicants with a CRS cut-off of 533.

Sending money overseas? A few smart moves can save you more than you think. Always compare exchange rates — small differences can add up fast. Watch out for hidden transfer fees and “zero-fee” claims that sneak in higher rates instead. Choose trusted providers that show the real mid-market rate and confirm transfer times before you send. If you’re moving larger amounts, lock in rates when they’re favourable or use alerts to track changes. A little research before clicking “send” can keep hundreds of dollars in your pocket.

Adjusting to a new country is exciting — but finding your footing in a new career can be one of the biggest challenges. That’s why this article breaks down how newcomers can set clear, achievable career goals in their first year in Canada. It offers practical advice on understanding the local job market, showcasing your skills, and building meaningful professional connections. You’ll also get tips on creating a strong Canadian-style resume, gaining local work experience, and staying motivated as you navigate the transition.

Discover how to turn uncertainty into career opportunities.

Leaving Canada is something we hope you never have to do — but for hundreds of thousands of temporary residents, it’s a reality that can’t be ignored. In this heartfelt piece, Rachel, who many will recognize from our videos, opens up about the moment she almost had to give up her Canadian dream. She shares how she processed the uncertainty, the steps she took to prepare just in case, and what the experience ultimately taught her about resilience, planning, and acceptance. From making peace with the unknown to staying organized through the chaos, Rachel’s story is a reminder that even when your path shifts, your journey still matters.

Read her full story: “I Almost Had to Leave Canada: Here’s What That Taught Me.”