October 13, 2026 Edition
Today’s newsletter is brought to you by our trusted partner, Cigna Healthcare
Your Immigration Update
IRCC’s latest update shows that processing times for proof of Canadian citizenship have increased again, reaching 34 months in October 2026, up from 33 months in September and just 19 months in July.
However, the number of people waiting for a decision has dropped from 136,000 to around 130,700.
The delays follow changes to Canada’s citizenship-by-descent laws, which have led more people to apply for proof of citizenship. If you have a Canadian parent, grandparent or earlier ancestor, you could already be a Canadian citizen under the new rules.
As of October 12, 2026, there are 229,456 active candidates in the Express Entry pool.
Here’s a closer look at the numbers:
21,638 candidates have CRS scores between 501 and 600, up 568 from the previous update.
71,612 candidates have scores between 451 and 500, down 1,519.
63,528 candidates have scores between 401 and 450, up 917.
With more candidates entering the higher CRS ranges, competition remains high, especially for Canadian Experience Class (CEC) draws.
The last intake for the Timmins Region Rural and Francophone Community programs run this month.
For readers who live and work in priority sectors in the Timmins Region, this is your last chance to apply for a community recommendation in 2026. Getting this recommendation is a critical step in the overall application process for both the Rural and Francophone pilot programs.
The Rural Community Immigration Program intake is on now. It runs from 9am (Eastern) on October 13 to 4:59pm (Eastern) on October 16, 2026. So time is very limited.
The Francophone Community Immigration Program intake opens on October 26 at 1:30pm Eastern and closes on October 30 at 2:30pm.
Am I a Canadian citizen by descent?
Changes to Canada’s citizenship laws mean you could already be Canadian if you have a Canadian parent, grandparent or earlier ancestor.
Did Someone Say Draw
IRCC invites 752 PNP candidates in its October 13 Express Entry draw.
Immigration In The Media
New Statistics Canada data shows that 2,103 hate crimes were reported to police in the first half of 2026. Race or ethnicity was the most common motivation in the second quarter, accounting for nearly 46% of incidents.
For newcomers, these figures are a reminder of the importance of knowing your rights and where to find support. If you experience discrimination or a hate crime, you can report it to local police, contact your provincial human rights commission or seek help from a newcomer settlement organization.
Money Matters: CRA Benefit Payments Still to Come in October
There are benefit payments still scheduled for October, offering financial support to eligible families, workers and seniors in Canada.
Here are the remaining payment dates:
October 20 – Canada Child Benefit (CCB): Monthly payments for eligible families with children under 18.
October 28 – Canada Pension Plan (CPP): Retirement payments for eligible recipients.
October 28 – Old Age Security (OAS) and Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS): Payments for eligible seniors, with rates increasing by 1.4% this quarter.
Newcomers may qualify for some of these benefits depending on their immigration status, income and family situation. Our guide covers eligibility requirements, payment amounts and how to apply.
Career Moves: Education Jobs Hit Hard
Canada lost 68,300 jobs in September, but the education sector was hit particularly hard, losing 35,000 jobs in just one month.
With international student numbers falling, the education sector may now be feeling the effects. Employment in education is now down 67,000 jobs compared to September 2025.
For newcomers looking for work in Canada, these figures show how job opportunities can vary between industries. Read our full jobs report for the latest employment trends across Canada.
Today's Tip: Mental Health Support for Newcomers
Starting a new life in Canada can be exciting, but adjusting to a new country can also bring stress, loneliness and uncertainty. Whether you’re struggling to find work, missing family or feeling overwhelmed, there is support available.
Our guide covers resources to help you look after your mental health, including:
Free and low-cost services through mental health organizations and community programs.
Newcomer support groups to help you build connections and feel less isolated.
Online counselling and mental health apps for support wherever you are.
Private health insurance options that may help cover services not included in provincial health plans.
Taking care of your mental health is an important part of settling into life in Canada.
