Canadian Immigration Update

This week's NKIC immigration update highlights several important changes affecting international students, foreign workers, provincial nominees and applicants pursuing permanent residence in Canada.

Several measures take effect on September 1, 2026, making it particularly important for applicants and representatives to review upcoming submissions carefully.

Canada Increases Study Permit Proof of Funds

Beginning September 1, 2026, international students applying for a Canadian study permit outside Quebec will need to demonstrate higher financial resources for living expenses.

Applications submitted before September 1 remain subject to the previous financial requirement. The required amount also increases according to the number of accompanying family members.

Why this matters to our clients

Students preparing applications should ensure that their financial documentation satisfies the requirement applicable on the actual date their application is submitted.

Work Permit Applications While Awaiting an LMIA or CAQ

Certain workers whose current work permits are close to expiry may submit an extension application while their employer is awaiting a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), or where applicable a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ).

IRCC indicates that this procedure may be available where the existing work permit expires within two weeks and the employer has already submitted a complete LMIA or CAQ application.

Why this matters to our clients

Workers approaching the expiry of their status should not assume that they must wait for the final LMIA decision before considering their extension options. Eligibility and timing should be reviewed carefully.

Nova Scotia Introduces New NSNP Application Fees

Effective September 1, 2026, Nova Scotia will introduce application fees for several streams of the Nova Scotia Nominee Program.

There remains no fee to submit an Expression of Interest. Applicants selected on or after September 1 will generally be subject to the new fees, while applicants selected before that date are exempt. The Atlantic Immigration Program is not affected by this change.

Hong Kong Permanent Residence Pathways Close to New Applications

Canada's special permanent residence pathways for eligible Hong Kong residents close to new applications on August 31, 2026.

IRCC has confirmed that applications received by the deadline will continue to be processed. Separate measures supporting certain Hong Kong nationals, including an open work permit measure, remain available according to their respective eligibility requirements and validity periods.

Why this matters to our clients

Applicants relying on special public policies should always distinguish between a program closing to new applications and the continued processing of applications already submitted.

Temporary Residence Processing Continues at High Volume

IRCC's application processing data, reported as of June 30, 2026, indicates that more than 1.56 million temporary residence applications had been finalized since the beginning of the year.

Processing times vary by application type, country, completeness of the application and case complexity. Applicants should therefore consult current IRCC processing information rather than relying solely on historical timelines.

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