Canada Immigration Daily Update – January 19, 2026
Canada Immigration Daily Update – January 19, 2026
Canadian Immigration Daily Brief — January 19, 2026
Quebec’s PEQ program has been revised with stricter eligibility rules, leaving many international students and temporary foreign workers uncertain about their long-term plans, while Canada is also facing renewed calls to introduce a clear permanent residency pathway for Ukrainians beyond temporary protections. At the same time, as the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches, Canadian officials are beginning to outline entry and visa considerations for international visitors, with more guidance expected in the coming months. Provincially, Prince Edward Island launched its first PNP draw of 2026 with a strong focus on international graduates, and Manitoba issued another round of invitations to skilled workers to address labour market needs. Federally, authorities announced structural updates to streamline immigration officer decision-making, and Canada also extended visa processing arrangements for Fijian nationals—while exploring a potential local processing hub in Suva to simplify applications and support travel and tourism.
Immigrants Face New Uncertainty After Quebec Revises PEQ Program
Quebec’s Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ)—once considered one of the fastest routes to permanent residence—has undergone major revisions, leaving many international students and temporary foreign workers uncertain about their future.
The updated rules introduce tighter eligibility conditions, including stricter requirements related to education background and work experience. Many applicants who structured their studies or careers around the former PEQ criteria now find themselves reassessing their long-term plans in the province.
Beyond individual applications, these changes have sparked broader debate about Quebec’s immigration direction and its long-term economic strategy, particularly in sectors reliant on skilled newcomers.
Canada Urged to Offer Permanent Residency Pathway for Ukrainians
As global displacement continues, Canada faces renewed calls to move beyond temporary protection measures for Ukrainians and introduce a clear, permanent residency pathway.
Such a move would offer long-term stability, allow families to rebuild, and reinforce Canada’s humanitarian leadership. Policymakers would need to balance system capacity with transparent eligibility rules, but experts argue the long-term economic and social benefits could outweigh the challenges.
Entry Rules for FIFA World Cup 2026 Begin to Take Shape
With the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaching, Canada has started outlining entry and visa considerations for international visitors. Immigration and border agencies are expected to coordinate closely to manage high volumes of travelers while maintaining security standards.
Further guidance on documentation, visa requirements, and pre-arrival procedures is expected in the coming months, giving fans time to prepare.
Prince Edward Island Prioritizes International Graduates in First 2026 PNP Draw
Prince Edward Island launched its first PNP draw of 2026 with a strong focus on international graduates, signaling a targeted approach to filling local labour gaps.
By prioritizing graduates already educated in the province, PEI aims to retain talent familiar with its workforce needs while supporting population growth and economic sustainability.
Manitoba Continues Issuing Invitations to Skilled Workers
The Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) has issued another round of invitations to skilled workers, reinforcing the province’s reliance on immigration to address labour shortages.
Applicants are encouraged to monitor official updates closely, as selection criteria and draw sizes can vary based on economic demand.
Canada Streamlines Immigration Officer Authority
Federal authorities have announced structural updates to immigration officer decision-making powers, aimed at improving efficiency and consistency across applications.
While details remain limited, the changes are expected to reduce processing delays and clarify internal responsibilities within the immigration system.
Canada Extends Visa Processing for Fijians, Eyes Suva Hub
Canada has extended visa processing services for Fijian nationals currently handled through Australia, while exploring the possibility of opening a local processing hub in Suva.
If implemented, this would significantly simplify applications and could strengthen travel, tourism, and cultural ties between the two countries.
Source: NEXUS Conferences & Canadian media sources
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