🌞 Happy Monday, Newcomers!

Welcome to November! This week's roundup covers key developments in immigration policy, workforce trends, and support services for newcomers. Stay informed, stay empowered, and explore new opportunities across Canada.

A growing crisis of underemployment is gripping Canada, leaving many of the nation's most educated individuals in jobs far below their skill level.

Over a fifth of workers with post-secondary degrees are overqualified for their current roles, a systemic failure costing the economy an estimated $30 billion annually.

The problem is especially severe for new Canadians, with nearly 35% of recent immigrants with degrees unable to find work in their fields.

They face immense hurdles, including unrecognized foreign credentials and the persistent demand for “Canadian experience.”

Meanwhile, Canadian-born graduates are also struggling amidst a relentless cost of living crisis, particularly in cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

The pressure to take any available “survival job” to cover basic expenses is immense.

This widespread issue has a devastating hidden toll, contributing to significant mental health challenges among those whose potential is being squandered.

🇨🇦 Canada Immigration Update: November 2025

1.  

   1. Permanent Resident Admissions Frozen at 485,000

   Canada has paused its immigration growth trajectory, maintaining the permanent resident (PR) target at 485,000 for both 2025 and 2026. This is a significant shift from previous years of steady increases.
   Why it matters:

   • Reflects growing concern over housing shortages, healthcare strain, and integration capacity.
   • Applicants may face longer processing times and increased competition for PR spots.
   • Employers and sponsors should plan for tighter quotas and more selective admissions.

2. 2. Cap Introduced on Temporary Residents

   For the first time, IRCC is capping the number of temporary residents—including international students, temporary foreign workers, and visitors. The goal is to reduce their share to 5% of Canada’s total population by 2027.
   Why it matters:

   • Institutions and employers must adjust recruitment and hiring strategies.
   • International students may face stricter admission controls and reduced visa approvals.
   • This cap signals a long-term structural shift in how Canada manages population growth.

3. 3. Public Support for Immigration Has Declined

   A recent national poll shows that nearly 75% of Canadians now support reducing immigration levels, a sharp reversal from previous years of broad support.
   Why it matters:

   • Public sentiment is now a major driver of immigration policy.
   • Expect more politically cautious and economically focused immigration strategies.
   • Community organizations and advocates may need to reframe messaging around immigration benefits.

4. 4. New Immigration Strategy Expected in 2026 Budget

   Prime Minister Mark Carney’s government is preparing to unveil a revised immigration strategy in the upcoming federal budget. It’s expected to emphasize economic alignment, regional targeting, and system integrity.
   Why it matters:

   • Could introduce new pathways for in-demand sectors and regional programs.
   • May also include stricter eligibility criteria and performance-based metrics.
   • Stakeholders should prepare for policy shifts that prioritize labor market outcomes.

5. 5. IRCC Expands Oversight of Temporary Programs

   The 2025 IRCC Annual Report confirms a broader scope of immigration planning, now including temporary residents in its strategic targets. This marks a fundamental change in how Canada balances its immigration portfolio.
   Why it matters:

   • Temporary programs will be more tightly regulated and performance-monitored.
   • Applicants and sponsors must ensure compliance, documentation accuracy, and program alignment.
   • This could lead to greater scrutiny of study permits, work permits, and employer compliance.

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💼 Canada Job Opportunities – November 2025

Canada’s labour market in November 2025 continues its cooling trend, with job vacancies slightly down but strong demand persisting in skilled trades, healthcare, and administrative roles. Long-term unemployment is rising modestly, while full-time employment saw gains in September, offering mixed signals for job seekers Statistics Canada rbc.com.

🔧 Skilled Trades & Technical Roles

• Automotive Technicians: Demand remains strong in Alberta and BC, with employers offering relocation support and competitive wages Statistics Canada.
• Welders, Truck Drivers & General Labourers: These roles continue to be among the most consistently in-demand across provinces, despite a slight dip in postings Statistics Canada.

🏥 Healthcare & Community Services

• Registered Nurses & Health Aides: Healthcare vacancies declined modestly (−7.5%) but rural and long-term care roles remain critical Statistics Canada.
• Emergency Management & Public Safety: Federal and municipal agencies are actively recruiting emergency coordinators and support staff Job Bank.

💼 Administrative & Professional Careers

• Project Managers, HR Managers & Account Managers: Demand remains steady in major urban centres like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary Statistics Canada.
• Receptionists & Administrative Assistants: Entry-level roles are abundant, offering newcomers a pathway to gain Canadian work experience Job Bank.

🌱 Youth & Internship Opportunities

• Government & Indigenous Internship Programs (2025): Agencies such as CMHC and Employment and Social Development Canada continue to offer paid summer internships with mentorship opportunities Job Bank.

🧭 Economic Context

• Employment growth stalled in October due to trade uncertainty and reduced business investment, though full-time jobs saw a boost in September Statistics Canada rbc.com.
• Household spending remains resilient, helping offset declines in exports and manufacturing Statistics Canada.
• Budget 2025 (tabled Nov 4) includes major investments in workforce development and high-paying career pathways Canada.ca.

Newcomer Services Across Canada 🇨🇦

Moving to a new country can be exciting, but it also comes with a lot of unknowns. From finding 🏠 housing to navigating 🏥 healthcare, 💼 employment, and everyday life, there’s a lot to figure out.

This resource brings together trusted organizations, tools, and tips to make settling in Canada a little easier one step at a time.

IRCC – Find Free Newcomer Services

• 📄 Details: Offers a comprehensive, searchable list of settlement organizations across Canada (except Quebec). Filter by city or type of service, from 🗣️ language classes to 💼 employment support.

👉 Start exploring today: IRCC Newcomer Services Directory

Quebec-Specific Services

• 📄 Details: Quebec has its own centralized newcomer resources, covering settlement services, orientation, and community integration. 🍁 Accompagnement Québec

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:

👩‍💼 Book a 1-on-1 Immigration Consultation with Motion Immigration - Whether you're applying for PR, navigating Express Entry, or planning your next move, get expert advice from a licensed immigration consultant. Book your consultation 

📊 TradingRich.com – Learn how to build wealth in Canada through smart investing and trading. Join the FREE community

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