October 28, 2026 Edition
Today’s newsletter is brought to you by our trusted partner, Cigna Healthcare
Immigration Levels Plan 2027: What to Expect
Steph and Rebecca discuss Canada’s upcoming 2027–2029 Immigration Levels Plan, review last year’s targets and share their predictions for what could change.
Your Immigration Update
What if your job isn't on Canada's high-wage occupation list? With new Express Entry rules giving extra CRS points to candidates in high-wage occupations from November 3, you might be wondering how you can stay competitive.
You still have options to improve your chances of getting permanent residence, from boosting your CRS score and learning French to exploring category-based draws and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Find out what steps you can take and why the high-wage occupation list could change in the coming months.
Canadians are becoming more open to immigration, according to a new Environics survey.
In 2024, 58% of Canadians thought immigration levels were too high. That number has now dropped to 48%, with Canadians evenly split on the issue.
But what’s behind this shift, and could it mean higher immigration levels in the future? We break down the latest findings and what they could mean for Canada’s immigration plans.
Did Someone Say Draw
On October 28, Canada invited 150 candidates in its second transport occupations Express Entry draw of 2026, with a minimum CRS score of 477.
Immigration In The Media
Canada is moving ahead with new asylum rules that could prevent people who have been in the country for more than a year from having their refugee claims heard by the Immigration and Refugee Board.
The changes, set to take effect November 2, are intended to reduce a growing backlog of more than 259,000 refugee claims.
However, the new rules have drawn criticism from the international education sector, which argues that students may have legitimate reasons to seek asylum after spending years in Canada. They warn that circumstances in a student’s home country can change, making it unsafe to return even if they originally came to Canada to study.
Nearly 20,000 international students filed asylum claims in Canada last year, highlighting how the changes could affect this group.
Money Matters: Bank of Canada Raises Interest Rate
The Bank of Canada has raised its key interest rate from 2.25% to 2.5%, its first increase in over three years.
Here’s what this could mean for your finances in Canada:
Mortgages: Variable mortgage payments could rise, making borrowing more expensive.
Renters: Higher costs could affect rent, but a cooler rental market may give you room to negotiate.
Loans: Lines of credit and other variable-rate loans could become more expensive.
Savings: High-interest savings accounts and GICs may offer better returns.
Homebuyers: Higher rates could reduce how much you can borrow, but may create more room to negotiate.
Career Moves: How to Get Your International Qualifications Recognized in Canada
Struggling to find work in Canada despite having international qualifications and experience?
Employers may be unfamiliar with your credentials, making it harder to assess your skills. Getting your qualifications assessed, starting the Canadian licensing process and clearly explaining your experience can help improve your chances of getting hired.
Our guide explains why international qualifications can be difficult for employers to assess and tips to help you stand out when applying for jobs in Canada.
Today's Tip: Health Insurance After Retirement in Canada
Planning for retirement in Canada? Your provincial health plan may not cover everything, and workplace benefits often end when you stop working.
From prescription drugs to dental and vision care, these extra costs can add up. Our guide breaks down what’s covered, where the gaps are, and your options for health insurance after retirement.
