News. For Newcomers | September 25, 2025

Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan for 2026-2028 will likely be published in the next four to five weeks. We’re concerned that Canada’s current approach to creating its annual immigration policy is shaped more by reaction than by strategy. Here’s why.

Something very rare happened in July 2025, recent data reveals. For just the second time since 2006, more US residents visited Canada than Canadians visited the US. This data may be surprising, since there are a lot more Americans than Canadians — but Canadian travel to the US has historically been very high.

Learn what’s driving this trend in our new article.

Canada’s population growth has completely stalled, and the average age of people in the country inched up, as immigration flatlines this year, according to the Globe and Mail.

The takeaway here for newcomers is that Canada is truly reliant on immigration to provide the inflow of young, talented workers to fill labour shortages. We know this is contrary to the current narrative in the headlines (the largely baseless claims that the TFWP is driving up youth unemployment), but the stark reality is that the current immigration climate is likely just a temporary dip.

Today we’re sharing part two of our three part Savings Series —

This article looks at the money habits and mindset you need to master to start saving for your future goals. We dig into why saving is such a powerful habit and what techniques you can use to build your savings — even when your cost of living is high.

Read it to get started towards better money habits today.

LinkedIn references help show employers that other people trust your skills and work ethic. Try to get three to five strong references from people who know you well, such as past managers, teachers, professors, or supervisors from internships or volunteer work. The best time to ask is right after finishing a project or course, when the details of your work are fresh in their mind.

When you ask, suggest they highlight your main skills, share a specific achievement, and explain how you added value. If you’re new to Canada or just graduating, you don’t need only work experience—professors, volunteer leaders, or even internship supervisors can give references that show you’re reliable and capable.

Scammers are increasingly using phone spoofing to make it seem like they’re calling from your bank. They may claim there are suspicious transactions on your account and ask for details like your card number, expiration date, or CVV under the pretense of verifying your details or “freezing” your card. To add pressure, they often create urgency, warn your account will be closed, or transfer you to a so-called “manager” to sound legitimate.

If you get a call about suspicious activity on your bank card, be cautious—even if the number matches your bank’s official contact. Scammers can spoof phone numbers and may pressure you to act immediately or hand over personal details. Remember, legitimate banks will never demand your card information or refuse a callback.

If you’re unsure, hang up and call the official number on the back of your card or through online banking. Leaving the call and verifying directly is the safest way to protect yourself. We know hanging up might seem scary, but if it’s a legitimate call, the bank will understand your concern and won’t be offended.

Keen to learn more about impersonation scams? Read our dedicated guide.