News. For Newcomers | November 19, 2025

Canada has often been criticized for its complex immigration system, and it’s true. With immigration operating at both the federal and provincial levels, plus nearly 100 Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), it can feel almost impossible for applicants to figure out which pathway is right for them.

And according to Budget 2025 and the immigration levels plan for 2026, things aren’t set to get any easier, with at least four one-time measures tabled.

If you’re applying for Canadian immigration, you expect to submit documents like work history, education, and language results. But what happens when IRCC unexpectedly asks you for a CV or resume? You’re not alone, and no, you didn’t do anything wrong. A CV isn’t required for most immigration programs, but there are a few exceptions. Recently, however, more applicants have been receiving these requests, even in streams where resumes weren’t previously part of the checklist.

So why is this happening, and what does it mean for your application?

A new report from the Institute for Canadian Citizenship and the Conference Board of Canada reveals that one in five immigrants leave Canada within 25 years, and the most highly educated newcomers are the fastest to go. Those with doctorates are nearly twice as likely to leave as those with a bachelor’s degree, and high-skilled workers depart at double the rate of low-skilled workers within their first five years.

The occupations Canada needs most, business and finance managers, ICT professionals, engineers, and architecture managers, show some of the weakest retention. Earnings growth is a major factor: among doctorate-holders, those with stagnant incomes are nearly three times more likely to leave than those whose incomes rise over time.

Regionally, Atlantic Canada faces the greatest retention challenge, and most immigrants exit from the province they first landed in without exploring others.

British Columbia Invites Entrepreneurs on November 18, 2025

When you start a new job in Canada, the number on your offer letter isn’t the amount that lands in your bank account. Taxes, Employment Insurance, and Canada Pension Plan contributions come off automatically, and those totals change depending on your province and income. You might also see payroll deductions for things like health insurance, union dues, or RRSP contributions, all of which can chip away at your take-home pay.

Before you sign your first job offer, use a take-home pay calculator to get a clearer picture of what you’ll actually earn each month and compare it with your budget. Ask about benefits and deductions, especially health plans or RRSP matching, since these can be part of your overall compensation and sometimes negotiated. Understanding how your paycheque works gives you better footing for long-term choices, not only for this job but for the direction you want your career to grow in Canada.

This newsletter is sponsored by our partner, CanadianSIM. Stay connected from day one with exclusive newcomer rates, only available before you land in Canada.

Every year around this time, Canada starts to feel a little different. Storefronts sparkle, “Now Hiring” signs appear in windows, and the job market takes on its own seasonal personality. But this winter, something notable is happening, holiday hiring is finally perking up again, even if it’s still far below those stronger years we saw before the labour market cooled. 

And for newcomers, IEC workers, and people on temporary permits trying to break into the workforce, this change, while modest is genuinely meaningful.

In our latest article, we break down what’s going on, why it matters, and where you might fit in.

Finding a home in Canada from outside the country can feel overwhelming, but a few simple steps can help you avoid scams. First, never send money to “reserve” a property before signing a proper lease or verifying ownership. Always look for listings with clear photos and videos, and ask for a virtual tour when possible. This allows you to check the real condition of the place and confirm that the person showing it is the actual owner or a licensed realtor. Make sure all communication happens through official channels, not personal messaging apps only. Avoid deals that seem too good to be true or landlords who rush you to commit. Finally, review the rental rules in the province you are moving to, since requirements can vary. With the right precautions, you can secure a safe and comfortable home before you even land in Canada.

Learn more by reading our article: How to Identify Rental Scams When Searching for an Apartment or Housing