News updates

Tories Plan to Block Refugee Claims from Non-Citizens with Criminal Convictions

The Conservative Party is set to introduce a new policy proposal targeting the refugee system, specifically aiming to prevent individuals who are not citizens and have prior criminal convictions from submitting refugee claims.

This move, as detailed by The Globe and Mail, signifies a stricter stance on immigration and refugee processing, emphasizing public safety and adherence to existing legal standards for entry into the country.

The proposed measure intends to create a clear legislative barrier for those with relevant criminal histories seeking asylum or refugee status within the nation's borders. The party is framing this as a necessary step to ensure the integrity and security of the refugee intake process.

While specific details on the implementation and the definition of 'crimes' were not elaborated upon in the initial summary, the proposal signals a significant policy shift toward enhancing screening measures for all asylum seekers.

#ConservativeParty #RefugeePolicy #ImmigrationReform #CriminalConvictions #PublicSafety

 

February 11, 2026

Uncertain Horizon: Ukrainians in Canada Lack a Clear Path to Permanent Status

Ukrainian nationals currently residing in Canada, many having sought refuge following the invasion of their home country, are facing significant uncertainty regarding their long-term status within the nation. Despite the welcoming initial reception and various temporary measures implemented by the Canadian government to facilitate their arrival and temporary stay, the absence of a defined pathway to permanent residency (PR) leaves these individuals in a precarious position. This lack of a clear route forward creates considerable anxiety about stability, employment continuity, and the ability to fully integrate into Canadian society beyond the scope of temporary visa programs. For many refugees and temporary residents, the uncertainty affects critical life planning, including decisions related to education, housing, and career progression, as their presence remains contingent on evolving immigration policies rather than established residency rights. Advocacy groups and community leaders are increasingly calling on federal authorities to establish a dedicated and transparent process for Ukrainians who wish to make Canada their permanent home, addressing the gap between temporary humanitarian aid and long-term settlement needs.   #UkrainianRefugees #PermanentResidency #CanadianImmigration #StatusUncertainty #GlobeAndMail

February 11, 2026

Canada extended in-country work permit printing for IEC participants

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the continuation of a streamlined process for International Experience Canada (IEC) participants.

Those currently in Canada with valid IEC work permits can now request examination and document issuance domestically when submitting subsequent applications.

The extension, effective February 10, 2026, will remain operational indefinitely, offering greater convenience for young professionals, working holiday participants, and international co-op students seeking to renew their work authorization without leaving the country.

This policy update reflects IRCC's ongoing commitment to improving service delivery within the International Mobility Program (IMP) framework.

#iec, #work_permits, #ircc, #international_experience_canada, #canada_immigration, #work_permit_renewal, #imp

February 11, 2026

Thunder Bay’s Rural Immigration Pilot Hails Success, Providing Critical Support to Over 800 Newcomers

A crucial government initiative aimed at bolstering regional demographics and economic vitality has reached a significant milestone in Thunder Bay, Ontario. The rural immigration pilot program, designed specifically to attract and retain newcomers in smaller communities often facing demographic declines and labour shortages, has successfully provided support services to more than 800 individuals since its inception. This achievement underscores the program's vital role in connecting skilled immigrants and their families with the foundational resources necessary to establish permanent roots in Northwestern Ontario.

The success of this pilot is particularly noteworthy given the unique challenges inherent in settling new populations outside of Canada’s major metropolitan hubs. While large cities often have established networks, rural areas require concentrated effort to ensure integration. The support mechanisms delivered through this program typically encompass a wide range of essential services.

These supports often include comprehensive assistance with housing procurement, targeted language training, essential navigation of the local job market, and organized community connection activities. By focusing on holistic and comprehensive integration, the pilot program ensures that participants are not merely arriving in the region, but are becoming permanent, self-sufficient, and contributing members of the Thunder Bay community.

For Thunder Bay, the sustained growth resulting from the influx of these 800-plus supported individuals translates directly into a more robust local economy, a broader tax base, and a diversified cultural landscape. Such federal and provincial regional initiatives are increasingly viewed as essential tools for development, playing a critical role in preventing population decline and filling persistent workforce gaps across crucial sectors like healthcare, technology, and industry. The strong metrics achieved in Thunder Bay suggest that this targeted model could be highly effective in stabilizing and growing other remote or rural communities nationwide.

#ThunderBay #RuralImmigration #Newcomers #RegionalDevelopment #Ontario #ImmigrationPilot

News Source

February 10, 2026