September 9, 2026 Edition
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Your Immigration Update
Some temporary workers in Canada can now take short courses without getting a separate study permit.
The new temporary measure could help eligible workers upgrade their skills, earn professional credentials or move into higher-skilled jobs. IRCC has highlighted tradespeople, nurses and laboratory technicians as workers who could benefit.
Courses must last six months or less, and your work permit must remain valid while you study. The exemption does not cover full-time studies.
Not every work permit holder will qualify. IRCC says it will start contacting eligible workers this week, so keep an eye out for an official notification.
New data shared by immigration consultant Oleg Schindler suggests Express Entry refusal rates have risen sharply in 2026.
In the first six months of the year:
56% of Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) and Federal Skilled Trades (FST) applications were refused.
15.7% of Canadian Experience Class (CEC) applications were refused.
2.9% of Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applications were refused.
Across Express Entry, the overall refusal rate was 31.5%.
Schindler suggests the rise could be linked in part to the growth of French-language draws and challenges some applicants face when providing acceptable work and other supporting documents. However, the exact reasons behind the increase are not yet clear.
UK professionals in dozens of occupations now have another way to work in Canada without their employer getting an LMIA.
The change comes after the CPTPP agreement took effect between Canada and the UK on September 1, 2026.
Eligible jobs include roles in engineering, technology, finance, business, science and marketing. You’ll generally need a Canadian job offer, relevant work experience and the qualifications required for your occupation.
The work permit is tied to your employer and can initially be issued for up to one year.
For UK citizens who have aged out of IEC or used their available participation, this could be another option worth exploring.
Immigration In The Media
More than 250 organizations are calling for an investigation after immigration officers checked the status of international graduates at a protest in Calgary.
The August protest was linked to post-graduation work permit (PGWP) refusals affecting students who say they were previously told they would qualify. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) later issued removal orders to 10 people.
The groups want the removal orders suspended and clearer rules to ensure peaceful protests do not trigger immigration enforcement. CBSA says peaceful assembly is a protected right and that those facing removal can appeal or seek a judicial review.
The dispute has also raised questions about how PGWP eligibility rules were communicated to international students.
Money Matters: How Much Do You Need to Live in Canada?
Wondering how much it could cost to live in Canada? Our free Budget Calculator helps you plan based on your city, family size, housing and transportation needs.
Answer five quick questions to get an estimate of your monthly expenses and setup costs, including rent, groceries, utilities and transportation.
Whether you’re planning your move or already living in Canada, it’s an easy way to see where your money could go and plan your budget with more confidence.
For more information on planning your budget, our Budget Planner, created in partnership with Scotiabank offers an overview on budgeting basics, including tools that may help you.
Career Moves: What Canada’s Slower Job Market Means for Your Job Search
Canada’s job market slowed in August, with 42,000 jobs lost and the unemployment rate stayed at 6.4%.
Some industries were hit harder than others. Business and building support services saw the biggest losses, while manufacturing added 22,000 jobs.
For job seekers, the numbers show why it’s important to look beyond the national unemployment rate. Job opportunities can vary widely by industry, occupation and province.
If you’re planning your career in Canada, research where your skills are most in demand before deciding where to live and work.
Today's Tip: Build Your Credit History Early
Building your credit history is an important part of getting settled in Canada
A good credit score can make it easier to rent a home, get a loan, or access better rates. Simple habits like paying bills on time, keeping credit card balances low, and limiting new credit applications can help.
Learn how to build and strengthen your credit history in Canada, plus explore the Scotiabank StartRight® Program for newcomers.
