News. For Newcomers | October 30, 2025

Canada’s new Immigration Levels Plan was supposed to land by November 1. It was then pushed to November 4, but even now, federal officials aren’t sure whether that means the full plan or just a partial version. In our latest piece, we unpack what’s behind the delay, and what it means for everyone trying to move forward.

International Student Enrolment Drops Across Atlantic Canada. Numbers are falling sharply across Atlantic Canada, down 28% overall, and more than 50% at some universities. We explore what’s happening, why it matters, and what prospective students can do to stay ahead of the changes.

The Globe and Mail recently featured an article titled “Canada’s overhaul of immigration must include a dedicated program for high-skilled workers.” This is a must-read, and it aligns directly with our own take from a few weeks ago: our article “The Express Entry System Favours the Young Not Necessarily the Highly Skilled” shows how the Express Entry system tends to favour youth over seasoned expertise, and why this needs to change to strike a balance between selecting candidates for their potential and others for their proven expertise.

Express Entry draw 376 saw 6,000 French Language applicants invited, bringing the total number of ITAs issued in French proficiency draws in 2025 to 36,000.

Express Entry draw 375 issued 1,000 ITAs to CEC. If this feels familiar, you’re not wrong. It’s the fourth CEC draw in a row inviting exactly 1,000 applicants.

Rents are sky-high – here’s how to keep your feet on the ground

Renting in Canada isn’t easy right now. A new Zoocasa report shows the average one-bedroom in Toronto costs about $2,295 a month. That means you’d have to make roughly $44 an hour to afford it comfortably. Even in smaller cities, rent is taking a bigger bite out of people’s paycheques than ever, and that’s after the recent minimum-wage increases.

If you’re feeling the squeeze, you’re not alone. To find more affordable options, check out our partner Rentals.ca, a great resource for exploring listings across Canada. You can often find better deals in neighbourhoods or suburbs outside city centres, where prices drop quickly. Consider sharing with roommates or signing a longer lease to lock in a lower rate.

The rental market is tough, but with smart searching and a bit of flexibility, you can still find a home that fits your needs – and your budget.

This newsletter is sponsored by our partner, Rentals.ca, Canada’s premier online marketplace for renters and landlords.

Many newcomers arrive ready to start fresh, but discover their old career may not fit their new life. Whether your field isn’t in demand, your priorities have shifted, or you’re craving something new, career transitions are totally normal in Canada. With the right plan, you can build a path that fits your goals and lifestyle. Read our guide on how to identify your “why,” leverage your skills, and find the right support to make your career change with confidence.

If you’re new to Canada, don’t assume the public healthcare system covers everything right away. Healthcare in Canada is managed by each province and territory, which means eligibility, waiting periods, and what’s included can vary widely. Some newcomers may wait up to three months for public coverage to begin, and even then, services like prescriptions, dental care, or mental health support might not be included. To avoid unexpected costs, check your province’s healthcare rules before you arrive and consider private insurance to bridge any gaps. Being informed helps you stay healthy and stress-free while settling in.

Want to know exactly what’s covered where you’re moving?