Hello September!

As summer draws to a close in Canada, we bring you the latest news and updates in immigration. September brings key updates, including the launch of Job Bank’s Direct Apply feature, changes to Express Entry medical exams, new transparency in refusal letters, and continued LMIA restrictions. The Canadian government has also announced several significant changes to its temporary residence programs, aiming to better manage the volume of temporary residents and strengthen the integrity of the immigration system. Here’s what you need to know this month:

Job Bank Launches Direct Apply

Service Canada has rolled out Direct Apply on Job Bank, making it easier for job seekers and employers to connect.

What it means for employers:

• Registered job seekers authorized to work in Canada can now apply directly to postings by submitting their resume.

• Employers can manage and store resumes directly in Job Bank.

• Direct Apply is enabled by default, and applications submitted this way must be considered.

Ignoring Direct Apply candidates or disabling the feature could be seen as not meeting recruitment requirements for LMIA purposes.

Express Entry Applicants Now Need Upfront Medical Exams

Effective August 21, 2025, Express Entry applicants must complete an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) before submitting their permanent residence application.

Key details:

• If you had an IME in the past 5 years, include your IME number or medical identifier.

• If your results can’t be reused, IRCC will provide next steps.

• If you’ve never had an IME, book with a panel physician right after receiving your ITA.

This new requirement aims to reduce delays by ensuring complete applications at the time of submission.

Express Entry Big Picture Trends

Looking ahead, Express Entry draws will continue to prioritize targeted groups:

• Francophone Focus: 8.5% of invitations in 2025 will go to French speakers, increasing to 9.5% in 2026.

• Category-Based Selection: Healthcare, education, and trades will dominate Express Entry draws in 2026.

More Transparency in Refusal Letters

Refusal letters for TRVs, study permits, and work permits now include officer decision notes.

Why this matters:

• Applicants can better understand why their application was refused.

• While officer notes are helpful, GCMS (ATIP) notes ($5) are still recommended to see the full reasoning.

LMIA Update – Low-Wage Restrictions Continue

LMIA applications in the low-wage stream will not be processed in regions with 6%+ unemployment.

Currently impacted regions:

• Toronto (8.9%)

• Windsor (11%)

• Oshawa (9.2%)

• Peterborough (9.9%)

• Halifax (6.2%)

• Edmonton (7.6%)

Employer options:

• Apply under the high-wage stream where possible.

• Explore LMIA-exempt work permits.

• Wait for the October 2025 wage update, which may shift eligibility.

Bill C-3: Citizenship by Descent Expansion

Bill C-3 proposes removing the first-generation limit (FGL), which currently restricts Canadians by descent from passing citizenship to children born abroad.

Key updates:

• Under the bill, citizenship can be passed on if a substantial connection to Canada is established.

• Court deadline for legislative change: November 20, 2025.

• Interim discretionary grants are already possible for those who may qualify.

Final Thoughts

This month’s updates reflect both immediate changes—like upfront medical exams and low-wage LMIA restrictions—and long-term policy trends, including Express Entry priorities and citizenship expansion. Whether you’re an employer, applicant, or family planning for the future, staying informed will help you take the right next steps.

Questions about how these updates affect you? We’re here to help.

Regards,

Rema and Rebecca