Maple News reports that Canada’s Express Entry system has seen significant changes in how immigration draws are scheduled, especially since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Before 2020, the process followed a relatively predictable rhythm, providing consistency and clarity for hopeful applicants. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) typically held […]
Canada Increases Inadmissibility Application Fees Starting December 1, 2023
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has implemented new fee adjustments for individuals seeking to return to Canada or restore their status after being deemed inadmissible. Effective December 1, 2023, application fees for such individuals have increased in accordance with federal legislation. This change affects applications […]
Canada Braces for Milder Winter in the West, Harsher Cold in the East Due to Major El Niño Event
Maple News reports that Canadians can expect an unpredictable winter ahead, as meteorologists confirm the arrival of one of the strongest El Niño events in recent years. The phenomenon is likely to reshape weather across the country—bringing a milder winter to some regions and a harsher season to others. El […]
First Time Traveling to Canada as an Immigrant or Permit Holder? Here’s What You Need to Know
Maple News reports that individuals arriving in Canada for the first time—whether as permanent residents, workers, or students—must fulfill specific requirements at the border to ensure a smooth entry into the country. All newcomers must present key documentation to Canadian border officials. These include a valid travel document, such as […]
Can International Graduates Extend Their Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada?
Maple News reports that most holders of Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) are not eligible to renew or extend their permit once it expires. However, there are a few specific cases where an extension may be granted. For international graduates hoping to stay and work longer in Canada, it’s important […]
Pathway to Canada: A Comprehensive Guide for Chinese Immigrants
Maple News reports that Canada continues to be one of the most attractive destinations for Chinese nationals seeking permanent residency. As part of its Immigration Levels Plan, Canada targets to welcome 465,000 new permanent residents by the end of 2023, with this figure set to rise to 500,000 annually by […]
Winter Survival Guide: 5 Essential Safety Tips for Newcomers to Canada
Maple News reports that for many newcomers, experiencing a Canadian winter can be both exciting and challenging. While snow-covered landscapes and festive activities like ice skating or building snowmen offer memorable first-time experiences, the cold weather also presents real safety concerns, particularly for those unfamiliar with harsh winter climates. To […]
Canada’s $4B Housing Accelerator Fund Spurs Construction in 10 Cities
Maple News reports that the federal government’s $4 billion Housing Accelerator Fund, launched in March 2023, is already exceeding expectations. Originally aimed at fast-tracking the creation of 100,000 new homes across Canada, the program is on track to deliver significantly more, with over 21,000 new units already in the planning […]
Faster Hiring for Foreign Workers in Quebec: What Employers Need to Know
Maple News reports that employers in Quebec may benefit from an expedited pathway when hiring certain foreign workers, avoiding the typical requirement to advertise job openings for specific roles. This exception can significantly streamline the process of bringing international talent into the province’s labor market. Generally, companies in Canada must […]
Your First Week in Canada: Five Essential Steps for International Students
Maple News reports that arriving in Canada as an international student is both exciting and overwhelming. While much attention is often given to long-term goals such as permanent residency or building a career, it’s essential not to overlook the crucial steps needed in the very first week. These initial actions […]
How Canadian Schools Manage Snow Days: A Guide for Newcomer Families
Maple News reports that many newcomers to Canada often face a steep learning curve when it comes to understanding how Canadian schools operate during harsh winter conditions. With snow and freezing temperatures a regular part of the Canadian experience, parents—especially recent immigrants—frequently have questions about how the education system responds […]
Quebec Introduces New Immigration Reforms and Policy Overhaul
Maple News reports that a comprehensive series of immigration reforms have officially taken effect in Quebec, signaling major changes for foreign workers and newcomers aiming to settle in the province. These amendments, which became active on November 23, 2023, include the relaunch of three key pilot programs and heightened language […]
Refugees Outpace Skilled Workers in Tax Filing Rates During First Year in Canada
According to a new report from Statistics Canada, refugees are significantly more likely to file income tax returns within their first year or two in Canada compared to skilled economic immigrants. Maple News reports that between 2017 and 2019, a striking 95% of refugees submitted their tax returns in the […]
What to Do If Your Canadian Immigration Application Is Returned as Incomplete
Maple News reports that applicants to Canada’s immigration programs may occasionally receive their application back from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) if it is deemed incomplete. While this can be frustrating, the return does come with clear guidance to help applicants get back on track. Every returned application includes […]
Canada Charts New Path to Boost Francophone Immigration Beyond 2023
Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is outlining a renewed strategy to support Francophone immigration beyond 2023, aiming to build on its previous goals and expand opportunities for French-speaking newcomers outside Quebec. IRCC had previously committed to reaching a target of 4.4% French-speaking immigrant admissions outside […]
Rents Keep Climbing: Canada’s Priciest and Most Affordable Cities for Tenants Revealed
Maple News reports that the Canadian rental market continues to tighten, with nationwide rents reaching new highs in November 2023. According to the latest data from the Rentals.ca National Rent Report, the average monthly rent across Canada hit $2,178 in October—marking the sixth consecutive month of increases and a $175 […]