Recent updates from IRCC and provincial governments have introduced significant changes to Canada’s immigration programs. Here are the key developments affecting applicants:
1. Parents & Grandparents Program (PGP) Update
- July 28, 2025: IRCC will invite 10,000 applicants from the 2020 sponsorship interest pool
- No new intake opened since 2020 – only previous submissions eligible
- Processing times: 24 months (outside Quebec), 48 months (Quebec applicants)
Note: This limited reopening suggests future PGP intakes may remain restricted until after the next federal election.
2. LMIA & Work Permit Restrictions
Due to rising unemployment (now 6.2% nationally), lowwage LMIAs are being rejected in most regions, including:
- Ontario (except Guelph & Thunder Bay)
- British Columbia (except Victoria)
- Quebec (Montreal & Quebec City)
Priority Processing: Only high wage LMIAs (TEER 03) and sector specific permits (healthcare, trades) are being approved.
3. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Changes
Nova Scotia
- Priority Sectors (20252026): Healthcare, construction, and regional community applicants
- Closed: STEM, clean energy, and resource sector applications from abroad
Quebec
- Effective January 2026, Quebec will stop issuing CSQs for work permits under “Administrative Code 76”
- Current CSQ holders have 90 days to apply for work permits
Prince Edward Island (PEI)
- July 17 draw: 39 invitations issued to priority sector workers
4. Study Permit Trends
- Refusal rates at alltime highs (IRCC cites fraud concerns)
- Ontario colleges: Expected tuition hikes in 2026 may reduce international student spots
- PGWP updates: Now require:
1-Language test (IELTS/CELPIP)
2-Graduation from eligible programs
5. Express Entry Pool (July 2025)
Current CRS distribution:
- 256,000 total candidates in pool
- 22,591 candidates in 501+ range
Recent draws:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 518 CRS (July 8)
- Healthcare draw: 504 CRS (June 2024)
Expected: More CEC/tradespecific draws in August
Key Takeaways
1. Family sponsorship opportunities remain limited – alternative options (Super Visa) may be preferable
2. LMIAbased work permits are becoming harder to obtain outside priority sectors
3. PNPs are shifting focus to healthcare, trades, and regional retention
4. Study permit applicants must show strong academic/financial preparation
5. Express Entry candidates below 500 CRS should consider PNP pathways
Next major update expected August 2025 with Express Entry changes.
Let Worldbridge Immigration Services be your guide to a successful future in Canada
Contact us:
Website: www.theworldbridge.ca
Email: info@theworldbridge.ca
Phone/WhatsApp: +1-416-727-7766
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