🍁 Newcomer Digest – Monday Edition

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has resumed Express Entry invitations for the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), following a 29-day pause.

On May 27, 2026, 3,000 CEC candidates received Invitations to Apply, with the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score reaching an all-time high this year at 518.

This sharp increase signals a heightened level of competition among applicants.

Earlier in April, just 2,000 invitations were issued with a minimum score of 514.

Fluctuations in CRS thresholds, from just 509 in January, highlight how Canada’s immigration policies and labor needs shape the process.

The draw’s tie-break favored those with early submissions, intensifying the race for permanent residency.

With scores rising, prospective immigrants must focus on improving their profiles and staying adaptable as the Express Entry system continues to evolve.

How to Read Your Canadian Pay Stub

You worked. You got paid. But the number in your bank account is smaller than you expected. This is normal, but you deserve to know exactly where your money is going.

The Big Three:

• CPP (Canada Pension Plan) 5.95% of your earnings go into a retirement fund. If you are on a work permit (not a PR), you still pay this but you can claim a refund when you leave Canada or when you file your taxes.
• EI (Employment Insurance) 1.63% of your earnings. This is your safety net. If you lose your job, EI pays you a portion of your income while you look for work.
• Federal + Provincial Income Tax The amount depends on your earnings and province. The 2026 federal basic personal amount is $16,452 meaning the first $16,452 you earn is not taxed federally.

What to do:

• Check that your employer is using your correct SIN (Social Insurance Number) — errors here affect your tax return.
• Find the "YTD" (Year-to-Date) line this shows your total earnings and deductions since January 1. Watch it.
• Save every pay stub. You will need them at tax time, especially with more than one job.

Pro tip: If you started work mid-year, you likely overpaid taxes 

 you get that money back as a refund when you file. It is not a mistake. It is yours.

🔗 CRA Payroll Deductions Calculator

CRA My Account

What it is: The Canada Revenue Agency's free online portal, see your tax returns, RRSP room, benefit payments, and any money owed to you, all in one place.

Who it helps: Anyone working or filing taxes in Canada. Setting it up early means you never miss a refund, GST/HST credit, or Canada Child Benefit payment.

How to access it:

• Website: CRA My Account – canada.ca
• Phone: 1-800-959-8281 (free)
• Requires: your SIN + a Notice of Assessment, or sign in via your Canadian bank

"Net vs. Gross"

In Canada, when someone asks "what do you make?" they usually mean your gross pay, your salary before deductions but your net pay (what hits your bank) is always lower. Always budget based on your net, not your gross, or you will be short every month.

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Whether you're a newcomer family navigating a new school system or a student aiming for top grades, Mobile Tutors delivers flexible, high-quality learning support right where you need it.

Want to fast-track your success in Canada? These tools and services can help:

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🍁 Before You Go...

Somewhere in Canada, a newcomer is wondering:

“What am I supposed to do next?”

That’s why Newcomer Digest exists, practical tips that make settling in feel less overwhelming.

👉 Forward this to a newcomer who needs clarity today.

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