Several immigration and labour rule changes took effect across Canada on January 1, 2026. The updates affect international students, entrepreneurs, job seekers, and provincial immigration applicants, reflecting a mix of tighter intake controls and labour market adjustments.
Graduate Students Removed From Study Permit Caps
Master’s and doctoral students enrolled at public designated learning institutions no longer need a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter to apply for a study permit. These students are now excluded from the national study permit cap, allowing applications even when limits are reached. Doctoral candidates may also benefit from faster processing, and removing attestation letters reduces upfront costs linked to enrollment deposits.
Start-Up Visa Closed to New Applicants
Canada stopped accepting new Start-Up Visa applications as of December 31, 2025. Applicants who received a commitment certificate in 2025 can still apply until June 30, 2026. New work permits under the program are also closed, while existing permit holders may be eligible for extensions. The government has indicated that a new, more targeted entrepreneur pilot will be introduced in 2026.
Ontario Speeds Up Licensing for Out-of-Province Professionals
Ontario implemented new labour mobility rules allowing professionals licensed in other provinces to begin working within 10 business days after credential verification. These workers can practice for up to six months while completing Ontario registration, significantly reducing delays that previously lasted months.
Ontario Bans “Canadian Experience” in Job Ads
Employers in Ontario can no longer require Canadian work experience in publicly advertised job postings. The change aims to remove barriers for newcomers entering the labour market. Employers must also disclose when artificial intelligence is used in hiring decisions.
Alberta Tightens Its Rural Immigration Stream
Alberta introduced stricter eligibility rules for its Rural Renewal Stream. In-Canada applicants must now hold a valid work permit at both application and assessment stages, with maintained status no longer accepted. Lower-skilled applicants must already live in Alberta, community endorsements are capped, and endorsement letters are valid for a maximum of 12 months.
