Maple News reports a government update effective February 18, 2026, which now requires Express Entry applicants to have at least 12 months of work experience in an eligible occupation within the past three years to qualify for any occupational category. Importantly, this experience may be non-consecutive. Previously, candidates needed six […]
PEI’s Latest PNP Draw Elevates International Graduates From Designated Learning Institutions
Maple News reports that on February 19, 2026, Prince Edward Island conducted its latest draw under the PEI Provincial Nominee Program, aligned with the province’s anticipated Invitation to Apply schedule. Continuing a pattern from earlier draws this year, PEI prioritized candidates with in-province ties and strong alignment with occupations and […]
Canada Tightens Study Permits for International Students Completing Prerequisite Courses
Maple News reports that Canada has updated its study-permit policy for international students arriving to take prerequisite courses before starting longer programs. Under the new rules, a study permit will cover only 90 days beyond the length of the prerequisite course(s), replacing the previous instruction to issue a permit equal […]
Maple News reports: Alberta issues hundreds of invitations across six AAIP draws, signaling sector-focused immigration priorities
Maple News reports that Alberta’s Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) carried out six provincial draws between February 6 and February 19, 2026, spanning Rural Renewal and multiple Express Entry streams, plus dedicated priority-sector pathways. The period yielded at least 441 invitations across the six draws, reflecting a broad push across tech, […]
Maple News Reports 4,000 Express Entry Invitations Target Healthcare and Social Services Professionals
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) issued 4,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a category-based Express Entry draw focused on healthcare and social services professionals. The draw occurred on February 20, 2026, and required a minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 467, with applicants having […]
NWT Nominee Program Allocates 197 Slots for 2026, Introduces Expression of Interest for Employer-Driven Streams
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has allocated 197 nomination slots to the Northwest Territories for 2026, the same total the territory ended 2025 with after a post-nomination increase. The Northwest Territories Nominee Program (NTNP) is also updating its selection process by adopting an Expression of Interest […]
Canada’s Express Entry Expands: Who Qualifies Under the New Transport Category
Maple News reports that Canada has created a new Transport category within Express Entry, prioritizing permanent residence for foreign nationals with work experience in four transport-related occupations. The changes took effect on February 18, 2026, as part of an effort to address labor needs in aviation and the broader transport […]
China Grants Visa-Free Entry to Canadian Travelers Until End of 2026
Maple News reports that, beginning February 17, 2026, Canadian citizens can travel to mainland China without a visa for stays of up to 30 days. The Chinese government’s new policy is part of an expanding effort to facilitate international travel and foster closer ties with select countries. According to a […]
IRCC Issues 6,000 Invitations in Surprise Express Entry Draw for Canadian Experience Class
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has issued 6,000 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) in a surprise Express Entry draw held on a statutory holiday. This draw specifically targeted Canadian Experience Class (CEC) candidates — individuals with recent Canadian work experience — continuing the department’s recent focus […]
Why the Chartered Marketer Designation is a Game-Changer for Your Marketing Career in Canada
Maple News reports that in today’s dynamic job market, staying competitive as a marketing professional in Canada means making smart investments in your career development. The Chartered Marketer (CM) designation, the only professional marketing credential recognized nationally in Canada, has become a crucial asset for marketers looking to futureproof their […]
Quebec’s Decision to Scrap PEQ Sparks Alarms Over Healthcare Worker Shortages
Maple News reports that Quebec’s move to phase out the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) has ignited significant concern among workforce planners, especially in the healthcare sector. The program’s replacement by the Programme de sélection des travailleurs qualifiés (PSTQ) marks a fundamental shift in how the province selects skilled immigrants—at a […]
The Evolving Story of Indian Immigration to Canada: Surge, Stabilization, and the Road Ahead
Indian citizens have been the leading source of new permanent residents to Canada for the better part of a decade, with their trajectory reflecting the interplay between global disruptions, domestic policy shifts, and Canada’s labour market needs. According to Maple News, the period from 2015 to 2023 was marked by […]
Canada Holds Surprise Express Entry Draw for Provincial Nominees
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted an unexpected Express Entry draw on February 16, 2026, specifically targeting Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates. A total of 279 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence were issued during this round. To receive an invitation in this draw, […]
Manitoba Issues New Invitations for Skilled Workers Under Strategic Recruitment Programs
Maple News reports that the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) held its latest draw on February 12, extending 29 Letters of Advice to Apply (LAAs) to skilled workers through both domestic and international streams. This marks the province’s first draw of the month and highlights Manitoba’s ongoing effort to meet […]
British Columbia Issues 474 Invitations in Two Consecutive Provincial Nominee Draws
Maple News reports that British Columbia has continued its strong start to 2024 by issuing 474 invitations to apply (ITAs) through the British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) over two consecutive draws held on February 10 and 11. The invitations were extended to both skilled workers and entrepreneurs seeking […]
Understanding Your Rights and Responsibilities as a Dual Canadian Citizen
Maple News reports that as more people seek global security amid rising geopolitical tensions, dual citizenship is becoming an increasingly attractive option. Holding citizenship in two countries, including Canada, can offer significant benefits—but it also comes with complex responsibilities. For starters, dual citizens enjoy increased mobility and access to the […]