Ottawa unlocks 110,000 extra economic-class spots as of 6 January 2026
Air Transat pilots ratify five-year deal, averting future strike risk
India adds Canada to expanded e-Visa scheme covering 167 countries
Latest News
Canada to Boost Annual Skilled-Worker Intake by 110,000 Starting 6 January 2026
IRCC will open 110,000 extra economic-class spots on 6 January 2026, giving Canadian employers quicker access to global talent and signalling lower Express Entry cut-offs ahead. Companies should pre-position LMIAs and job offers, while applicants are urged to finalise language tests and ECAs to capitalise on the expanded quota. The policy supports Ottawa’s goal of meeting labour-market gaps without increasing total immigration beyond current levels.
First Express Entry Draw of 2026 Issues 574 ITAs to PNP Candidates
IRCC invited 574 provincial nominees in the first Express Entry draw of 2026, with a CRS cut-off of 711. The move clears provincial backlogs and indicates that program-specific rounds will continue alongside upcoming category-based draws, offering employers a predictable path to retain foreign talent already in Canada.
Arctic Blast Causes More Than 600 Flight Disruptions Across Canada
An Arctic blast triggered almost 700 flight disruptions nationwide between 2 – 4 January, forcing companies to re-route or postpone travel and highlighting the need for robust winter-contingency planning. Airlines are waiving fees and offering compensation under Canadian regulations, but employers should expect lingering knock-on effects in both passenger and freight networks.
WestJet Issues Fee-Waiver Advisory for Ontario Airports Amid Winter Storm
WestJet’s 5 January fee-waiver allows even UltraBasic-fare passengers to rebook Ontario flights disrupted by winter weather. Employers should notify travellers immediately, as the policy lets them avoid penalties and reduce itinerary chaos during the storm window.