Happy November!

The snow has started to fall, and as the holiday season approaches, we’re filled with both gratitude and excitement. November is not only a time for cozy beginnings and reflection—it’s also a month of celebration for us.

Celebrating R&R Law’s Second Anniversary

On November 13, we proudly mark two incredible years since R&R Law LLP was founded by Rebecca Godinho and Rema Aljajeh.

What began as a shared vision has blossomed into a thriving boutique immigration firm that has helped countless individuals, families, and companies navigate their Canadian immigration journeys with confidence and care.

We are deeply grateful for our clients’ trust, our partners’ collaboration, and the communities that have welcomed us with such warmth. R&R Law LLP stands as a testament to the power of diversity, compassion, and legal excellence.

As we enter our third year, we remain committed to empowering clients, fostering inclusion, and making the immigration process more accessible and transparent than ever before.

Here’s to many more years of success—and to continuing to make dreams come true, one story at a time.

Study Permits – Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL)

IRCC has issued new guidance on Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letters (PAL/TAL) for the 2025 allocation period, effective November 4, 2025.

Key updates include:

• New details on PAL/TAL re-use during the same allocation period.

• Clarifications for joint programs between designated learning institutions.

• Procedures for closing unaccepted applications.

• Sample PALs/TALs for reference.

• Expanded guidance on exceptions requiring an Organization/Entity ID.

• Instructions for when the study permit cap is reached.

These updates ensure greater consistency and transparency in how study permits are processed under the new cap system.

New Update: Immigration Medical Examination (IME) Requirements

IRCC has updated the list of countries that require an Immigration Medical Examination (IME).

Some countries have been added, while others are no longer on the list. Before submitting your application, it’s crucial to check the most recent requirements to prevent processing delays.

🔗 See the full list of country-specific IME requirements here

City of Toronto – Small Business Forum 2025

We had the opportunity to attend the City of Toronto’s Small Business Forum 2025 at Meridian Hall, connecting with entrepreneurs and business leaders shaping today’s global economy.

The event’s sessions offered valuable insights into international growth, innovation, and cross-border collaboration—all themes that resonate deeply with our work.

London Chamber of Commerce – MEGA Business After Five

We also had a fantastic time at the #MEGA Business After Five event hosted by the London Chamber of Commerce at the beautiful #BeachHangar in London, Ontario.

It was a wonderful evening of networking, collaboration, and community building—proof that meaningful connections are the heart of business success.

We’re looking forward to the next one!

Immigration Levels Plan 2026–2028: Major Shifts Ahead

IRCC has unveiled its Immigration Levels Plan for 2026–2028, and the landscape is shifting in significant ways.

Key highlights include:

• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) targets will rise to 91,500 in 2026 (up from 55,000).

• Express Entry admissions will drop to 109,000, with no separate quotas for CEC or category-based draws.

• Federal Business Programs will be cut by 50% to 500 admissions.

• Parents & Grandparents Program will shrink from 21,500 to 15,000.

• Humanitarian & Compassionate category will drop to 1,100.

• Refugees & Protected Persons will decrease from 55,300 to 49,300.

At the same time, IRCC is planning a one-time initiative that could grant permanent residence to 115,000 asylum claimants and 33,000 temporary residents over two years (2026–2027), potentially increasing total admissions by 148,000.

Canada’s focus is shifting toward regional immigration through the PNP, while other pathways will see tighter competition and reduced quotas.

Final Thoughts

From policy shifts to milestone celebrations, November reminds us how much can change—and how much we can accomplish when driven by purpose and community.

As we celebrate two incredible years at R&R Law LLP, we thank you for being part of our journey. Your trust and partnership continue to inspire our mission to provide exceptional, compassionate, and forward-thinking immigration support.

Wishing you a warm and joyful start to the holiday season!

Regards,

Rema and Rebecca