IRCC has announced targeted immigration measures aimed at increasing Canada’s supply of physicians, including the creation of a new Express Entry category for doctors, with invitations expected to begin in early 2026. Key salient points: A new occupation-specific Express Entry category focused on medical doctors. Designed to address critical shortages in Canada’s healthcare system. Applies to foreign-trained physicians meeting licensing and eligibility criteria. Supports federal–provincial collaboration in healthcare workforce planning. Part of Canada’s broader Economic Immigration Strategy 2025–2027. Further operational details (NOC codes, CRS thresholds) to be released by IRCC. IRCC Newsroom – Improving access to doctors through immigration
IRCC has published the most recent Express Entry round, confirming a large-scale issuance of Invitations to Apply (ITAs). Key salient points: 6,000 ITAs issued in the latest round. Minimum invited score: CRS 520. Round conducted under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Demonstrates IRCC’s continued prioritization of candidates with Canadian work experience. Signals stable invitation volumes heading into 2026. Official results published on IRCC’s Express Entry rounds page. IRCC – Express Entry rounds of invitations
IRCC has launched a pilot project testing digital visitor visas as part of its immigration system modernization initiative. Key salient points: Applies to a limited group of visitor visa applicants. Initial implementation for applicants from Morocco. Digital visa replaces the traditional physical counterfoil. Aims to reduce processing times and administrative burden. Part of IRCC’s broader digital transformation roadmap. Expansion will depend on pilot results and security assessments. IRCC – Rondes d’invitations Entrée express
IRCC has released the 2026 provincial and territorial allocations under the international student cap. Key salient points: Confirms study permit allocation limits for each province and territory. Supports better planning for designated learning institutions (DLIs). Continues Canada’s approach to managing housing and service capacity. Allocations reflect population, labour needs, and absorption capacity. Applies to new study permit applications only. Maintains exemptions for specific categories (e.g., minors, extensions). IRCC – International student cap and provincial allocations
Amendments to immigration regulations have been officially published in the Canada Gazette, Part II. Key salient points: Amendments formally enacted through regulation. Certain provisions came into force on November 25, 2025. Reflect adjustments to visa-related regulatory treatment. Legally binding once published in the Gazette. Must be applied by decision-makers and officers. Relevant for compliance and legal interpretation purposes. Canada Gazette, Part II – Regulations Amending the IRPR
IRCC has extended the pause on new applications under the Groups of Five and Community Sponsor streams. Key salient points: Suspension extended until December 31, 2026. Applies to new applications only. Existing applications continue to be processed. Decision driven by high intake volumes and processing backlogs. Allows IRCC to focus on finalizing pending cases. Does not affect government-assisted refugees. IRCC Newsroom – Canada tests digital visas
Last modified on 05:48 AM (EST) 19/12/2025