Source-referenced notes.
Brief procedural summaries of IRCC operational bulletins, Express Entry rounds, and policy instruments. No speculation, no commentary beyond what the record supports.
- Express EntryMarch 2026
CEC round issues 6,500 ITAs at CRS 521
Category-based selection continues to dominate the cycle. Healthcare and STEM remain in scope; bilingual draws hold the lowest cut-off.
Read Full Note → - PolicyFebruary 2026
Inland spousal service standard reset to 12 months
IRCC has revised its public service standard. Files with deficient genuineness evidence continue to draw extended secondary review.
Read Full Note → - ProvincialJanuary 2026
OINP expands Employer Job Offer NOC list
Five additional NOC codes — including AI specialists and cybersecurity analysts — are eligible under the Foreign Worker stream as of this draw.
Read Full Note → - OperationalDecember 2025
IRCC reduces biometrics exemptions under temporary policy
The temporary exemption for renewals within the ten-year collection window has been narrowed. Confirm biometric requirements before filing.
Read Full Note → - Express EntryNovember 2025
PNP-linked draws resume at CRS 700+
Provincial nominee draws resumed following the pause. Scores in linked draws remain elevated; provincial allocation numbers are unchanged.
Read Full Note → - PolicyOctober 2025
IRCC updates GCMS request processing timelines
Access to Information turnaround for GCMS notes has extended to 30+ days in most regions. Factor this into procedural fairness response timelines.
Read Full Note →
* Notes published for general information only. Nothing on this page constitutes legal or immigration advice on any specific matter. For guidance on a file, retain counsel.