Statistics Canada releases new population projections through 2075

Statistics Canada has published updated demographic projections covering 2025 to 2075 nationally and through 2050 for provinces and territories. Released January 27, 2026, the analysis presents ten scenarios reflecting various demographic assumptions. Under the medium-growth model, Canada's population could reach 57.4 million by 2075, up from 41.7 million in 2025. The projections account for recent immigration policy adjustments and post-pandemic demographic shifts. Migration remains the primary driver of growth, while the proportion of residents aged 65 and older is expected to rise significantly. Alberta's demographic weight may surpass British Columbia's in most scenarios by 2050.

CBSA strengthens border processing for travelers and asylum seekers on International Customs Day 2026

Canada's border agency marked International Customs Day 2026 by highlighting significant achievements in managing the cross-border movement of people. Throughout 2025, CBSA officers processed over 82 million travelers entering Canada while maintaining rigorous security protocols. The agency removed nearly 22,000 inadmissible foreign nationals, turned away 40,693 individuals at land crossings, conducted security screenings for more than 80,950 asylum claimants, and prevented 7,037 passengers with invalid documentation from boarding Canada-bound flights. These efforts demonstrate CBSA's dual commitment to facilitating legitimate travel while protecting border integrity and ensuring immigration system fairness for all who enter Canada lawfully.

Ontario faces growing pressure on affordability and healthcare

Ontarians are increasingly concerned about the direction of healthcare and cost of living, with nearly half believing it is time for a government change. Housing affordability, medical wait times, and access to family doctors have emerged as critical pain points affecting both long-term residents and newcomers to the province. The strain on healthcare infrastructure has been particularly acute for immigrant families, who often face additional barriers in navigating an already stretched system. While the Ford government maintains a strong electoral lead at 48%, public sentiment reveals deep frustration with affordability issues that transcend political allegiance. Even Progressive Conservative supporters express pessimism about housing costs and healthcare access, signalling that these kitchen-table concerns could reshape Ontario's political landscape heading into 2026.

Alberta opens doors to newcomers with record housing growth and affordable living

Alberta is positioning itself as a welcoming destination for newcomers and immigrants, backed by unprecedented housing development and falling rental costs. The province shattered construction records in 2025, completing over 53,000 new housing starts – a 14% jump from the previous year. With rental prices dropping nearly twice the national average and sitting $400 below Canada's monthly norm, Alberta offers genuine affordability. This boom stems from streamlined regulations, business-friendly policies, and strategic investment in affordable housing, demonstrating Alberta's readiness to support growing communities.

Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker arrivals hit a two-year low

New federal statistics reveal that work permit issuances under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) plummeted to just 2,615 in November 2025, marking the lowest monthly intake since early 2024. This sharp decline follows commitments from federal ministers to rebalance the program in response to concerns over housing shortages and wage suppression. While the program saw over 100,000 approvals annually during the post-pandemic peak of 2022–23, the government has since implemented sector-specific caps and phased out COVID-era flexibilities. Industries such as agriculture, hospitality, and food processing are currently feeling the greatest impact, with some employers reporting LMIA processing times exceeding 12 weeks. As the government prepares a formal TFWP reform package for the 2026 federal budget, businesses are being encouraged to explore alternative pathways, such as the Global Talent Stream or intra-company transfers.

IRCC freezes PGWP-eligible courses for 2026

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced a freeze on eligible fields of study for Post-Graduation Work Permits for the remainder of 2026. International students planning to work in Canada after graduation should note that no programs will be added to or removed from the current list of eligible CIP codes this year. This decision provides stability for students already enrolled in qualifying programs, but means those in non-eligible courses will not see changes until at least 2027. Students should verify their program's eligibility status early to ensure their post-graduation plans remain on track.

Manitoba college to shut down as international enrollment collapses

The Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology (MITT) has announced it will wind down operations over the next year, citing an unsustainable financial model following a dramatic 55% drop in international student enrollment. While the Winnipeg-based institution is set to close, the province has reached an agreement with Red River College (RRC) Polytech to transfer selected programs and ensure that all currently enrolled students can complete their credentials. The closure marks a significant blow to the province’s trades training sector at a time when local industries are facing critical labor shortages.