Canada Holds First Education Occupations Draw Under Express Entry in Over Four Months
On September 17, 2025, IRCC conducted its first Education Occupations Express Entry draw in more than four months. In this round, 2,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued to candidates in education-related occupations. The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) cut-off score was set at 462, making this a competitive draw targeting much-needed talent in Canada’s education […]
Express Entry Draw #366: 228 Provincial Nominee Program Candidates Invited
On September 15, 2025, Express Entry draw #366 invited 228 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). The CRS cut-off score was high at 746, reflecting the 600-point boost that nominees receive. This continues IRCC’s strategy of prioritizing PNP candidates who can immediately integrate into provincial labour markets. Read more: https://moving2canada.com/news-and-features/news/immigration/express-entry-draw-366-228-pnp-candidates-invited-on-september-15-2025/
Canada’s Temporary & Student Visa Approval Rates Show Diverging Trends
IRCC data for January to April 2025 revealed contrasting approval rates. While student visas had an approval rate of just 43%, work permits were approved at a much higher rate of 69%. The data highlights stricter scrutiny on international students, while Canada continues to welcome skilled workers to fill labour shortages. Read more: https://m.economictimes.com/nri/migrate/canadas-immigration-data-student-visas-see-only-43-approval-work-permits-69-in-early-2025/articleshow/123844441.cms
Student Visa Approval Rates Drop, Work Permit Approvals Higher in Early 2025
Between January and April 2025, IRCC reported that student visa approvals were down to 43%, reflecting tighter rules and caps on international student intake. In contrast, work permits had a 69% approval rate, showing Canada’s continued focus on labour market integration. This trend aligns with the federal government’s 2025 policies to better balance temporary residents. […]
Global Skills Strategy (GSS) Processing Time Goal: 2 Weeks for Eligible Work Permits
Through the Global Skills Strategy, Canada continues to commit to faster work permit processing. Eligible skilled workers and their families can expect processing within two weeks, provided their roles fall under in-demand occupations or LMIA exemptions. This helps Canadian employers attract top global talent quickly. Read more: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/special-instructions/global-skills-strategy.html
IRCC Updates Field‑of‑Study Requirement for Post‑Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)
On July 4, 2025, IRCC updated the PGWP eligibility list by adding 119 new fields in high-demand areas like healthcare, trades, and education. At the same time, 178 fields were removed due to limited labour market relevance. Students who applied before July 4 remain eligible under old rules. Read more: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/news/notices/update-requirement-post-graduation-work-permits.html
Settlement Funds Requirement Raised for Atlantic Immigration Program
In July 2025, IRCC increased the minimum settlement funds required for applicants under the Atlantic Immigration Program. The new threshold is based on 12.5% of the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO), ensuring newcomers can financially sustain themselves. This update affects applicants in economic immigration streams tied to the Atlantic provinces. Read more: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/migrate/canada-raises-settlement-fund-requirement-for-atlantic-immigration-program/articleshow/123087802.cms
Canada Immigration Recap – July 2025
Express Entry & Federal Programs July 2025 featured significant updates to Canada’s federal immigration streams. PGWP Reversal & PGP Invitations shaped expectations for applicants and policymakers. Express Entry draws continued with category-based selection. Federal policies adjusted to balance housing and labour demand. Work & Study Permits IRCC reinforced its focus on balancing international student growth […]
Innovation Stream: Employer‑Specific Work Permit under Global Hypergrowth Project
IRCC launched the Innovation Stream under the Global Hypergrowth Project in June 2025. This new work permit pathway is employer‑specific and supports Canada’s fastest-growing companies in recruiting international talent. It aims to boost innovation, especially in tech and advanced industries. Read more: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/special-instructions/innovation-stream.html
IRCC Uncovers Misconduct & Bribery Cases in Immigration System
A June 2025 IRCC report revealed 62 cases of staff misconduct between 2023 and 2024. Some incidents involved attempted bribery in connection with study permit approvals. The findings stress IRCC’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption and reinforce its commitment to a transparent immigration process. Read more: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/latest-updates/canada-uncovers-bribery-and-misconduct-cases-within-immigration-system/articleshow/121926920.cms