Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab launched the 13th National Francophone Immigration Week on November 3, highlighting the theme "Thank you for enriching our Francophonie."
The week recognizes the vital contributions Francophone newcomers make to Canada's cultural and economic landscape. Minister Diab announced that the government remains on track to achieve its 2025 target of 8.5% French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec.
Federal and provincial ministers are working together on a new action plan to strengthen Francophone immigration and support minority communities across the country, developed in partnership with local organizations.
#national_francophone_immigration_week, #francophone_immigration, #canada_immigration, #ircc, #francophone_communities, #immigration_canada_2025, #french_speaking_immigrants
November 4, 2025
Ontario is introducing comprehensive reforms to its driver's licence system through Bill 60, which links licensing eligibility directly to immigration status and work authorization.
Effective early 2026, the Ministry of Transportation will verify applicants' legal status in Canada before issuing or renewing licences.
The legislation prohibits temporary visitors from obtaining commercial driver's licences, ends automatic recognition of foreign licences from non-reciprocal countries, and mandates one year of Canadian driving experience before qualifying for Class A commercial licences.
These measures aim to enhance road safety, prevent fraud, and ensure only authorized individuals operate vehicles professionally across the province.
#ontario_driving_licence_rules, #bill_60_ontario, #immigration_status_canada, #driver_licence_reform_2026, #work_permit_verification, #newcomers_canada, #trucking_industry_ontario, #foreign_licence_recognition
November 3, 2025
Immigration Minister Lena Diab defended the government's new border security legislation, Bill C-12, stating that the trigger for pausing or revoking immigration applications remains deliberately undefined to maintain flexibility during unforeseen crises.
During a House of Commons committee hearing, Diab faced scrutiny from Conservative critic Michelle Rempel Garner, who questioned potential safeguards against abuse of these sweeping powers.
While Diab assured the measures would only apply in exceptional circumstances and comply with Charter rights, over 300 civil society organizations have urged Ottawa to withdraw the controversial legislation, citing concerns about mass document cancellations and inadequate protections for immigrants.
#canada_immigration, #bill_c12, #border_security, #lena_diab, #civil_rights
November 3, 2025
Holland College has reported a 47% decline in its international student population in 2025, from 848 students last year to 446.
The college projects an additional loss of 300 students by the 2026–27 academic year, totalling a reduction of about 700 international students, over 80% of its former international enrolment.
The decline stems directly from federal immigration policy changes, particularly restrictions on college graduates’ eligibility for Post-Graduate Work Permits. As a result, the institution faces more than $4 million in lost tuition revenue this fiscal year.
However, domestic student numbers have increased by 11%, reflecting stronger local recruitment. College President Dr. Alexander MacDonald emphasized that federal policy shifts are limiting the province’s access to skilled workers, as most graduates traditionally remain in PEI after completing their studies.
#HollandCollege, #international_students, #PGWP, #immigration_policy, #studyinCanada, #PEI
October 31, 2025
