News. For Newcomers | October 22, 2025

IRCC rolled out a slick new processing time tool feature, and what started as a “five-minute peek” turned into a full-on data dive. We plugged in sample dates, tallied the queues, and surfaced what really matters right now – from PNP (non-EE) looking more like a stadium crowd than a line, to Protected Persons queues topping 190,000. If you’re planning, applying, or just immigration-curious, this breakdown makes the wait feel a little less mysterious – and a lot more strategic.

AI is quietly reshaping how Canada reviews LMIA applications. Using automation and a virtual assistant named EVA, Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) now scans employer data, flags inconsistencies, and supports officers in making faster, fairer LMIA decisions. It’s not replacing human judgment, but it could change how long reviews take and how closely employers are scrutinized. If you’re planning to work in Canada, here’s what these AI upgrades really mean for you.

Canadians’ opinions on immigration are shifting, but not in one direction. A new Environics Institute survey shows that while overall negativity has eased slightly, party polarization has hit a high. More than half of Canadians still say the country accepts too many newcomers, with sharper divides emerging along party lines.

Confidence in how the system is managed remains low, and concerns about refugees and cultural integration are rising. As housing and affordability pressures persist, these views will be key as Canada prepares to unveil its new Immigration Levels Plan

Gas prices have a way of sneaking into everything, not just your fill-ups, but the cost of groceries, deliveries, and pretty much anything that gets moved around. With prices running high and inflation still putting pressure on budgets, your fuel fund might need a little extra attention.

Tip for managing this: Check local gas rates before filling up (apps like GasBuddy make it easy), and try grouping errands so you drive less. If you can, mix in public transit or carpool with a friend. Small changes like these can quietly save you a surprising amount over time.

Want more budgeting strategies tailored to life in Canada?

This newsletter is sponsored by our partner, Cigna.

If you’re planning a trip to Canada for 4+ months, we recommend you get a quote for private health insurance from Cigna.

Starting a new job in Canada? Chances are, you’ll encounter a probation period – that initial three to six months where you and your employer make sure it’s the right fit. It’s standard practice, not a warning sign, but understanding what employers can and can’t do during this phase can make all the difference. From your rights around termination and discrimination to what changes once you’re confirmed as a permanent employee, knowing the rules helps you protect yourself and your career.

Get the full breakdown – including province-by-province details and red flags to watch out for – in our complete guide: Understanding Probation Periods in Canadian Jobs

Most newcomers aren’t covered by Canada’s public healthcare system right away. Depending on your province of residence, there can be a few months’ waiting period before public coverage begins — even for new permanent residents.

To stay protected during that gap, it’s smart to arrange temporary private health insurance before you travel to Canada. Plans can cover basic medical needs, prescriptions, or emergencies until your public coverage takes effect.

Read more about health insurance for your first months in Canada.