Canadian Immigration Weekly Update - January 11-18, 2026
- lynn jin
- 4 days ago
- 2 min read
📊 THIS WEEK'S HIGHLIGHTS
**5,000 French-Speaking Express Entry Spots**: IRCC allocated 5,000 EE invitations for French-speaking candidates in 2026
**Ukraine Family Sponsorship Extended**: Family reunification program extended to March 31, 2027
**Multi-Province Draws**: NB (379 invitations), MB (55 primary + 184 other), PEI (26 invitations)
**Policy Updates**: Family class PR applications and designated officials procedures refined
🎯 EXPRESS ENTRY & FEDERAL UPDATES
French-Language Immigration Initiative IRCC announced a dedicated 2026 allocation of 5,000 Express Entry invitations for French-speaking candidates. This initiative supports Canada's official bilingual policy and aims to strengthen French-language communities across the country.
Ukraine Family Sponsorship Program Extension The temporary Ukraine family sponsorship program has been extended until March 31, 2027, allowing eligible Ukrainian nationals to sponsor family members to Canada during this extended period.
Immigration Minister's Announcement Recent ministerial announcements highlighted new measures supporting French-speaking communities and clarifying policies for family-class sponsorships. Officials announced updated procedures for designated officers and streamlined application processes.
🍁 PROVINCIAL NOMINEE PROGRAM UPDATES
Nova Scotia *Updates to be confirmed*
New Brunswick **Draw Period**: January 13-15, 2026 **Invitations Issued**: 379 NB continues its regular PNP draws, inviting qualified candidates to apply for provincial nomination.
Manitoba **Draw Date**: January 15, 2026 **Invitations Issued**: - 55 primary invitations - 184 additional invitations MB maintains active draws for candidates in various occupation categories and experience levels.
Prince Edward Island **Draw Date**: January 15, 2026 **Expressions of Interest**: 26 invitations issued PEI continues to welcome skilled immigrants through its provincial nominee program.
💼 POLICY & PROGRAM UPDATES
CUFTA Work Permit Policy Updates to the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement (CUFTA) work permit provisions have been implemented to facilitate temporary worker placements.
Rural and French-Language Communities Pilot The pilot program supporting immigration to rural and French-language communities has been updated with refined selection criteria and application procedures.
Family Class Sponsorship Refinements New guidelines for family class PR applications ensure clearer eligibility requirements and faster processing timelines.
📌 Key Takeaways
✅ For French Speakers: 5,000 dedicated EE spots available in 2026 ✅ For Ukrainian Families: Extended sponsorship window until March 31, 2027 ✅ For Provincial Candidates: Active draws across multiple provinces (NB, MB, PEI) ✅ For Family Sponsors: Clearer procedures and guidelines for family-class applications
📞 Need Professional Guidance?
L.J. Immigration Consulting provides expert advice on: - Express Entry strategy optimization - Provincial nominee program selection - Family sponsorship applications - Work permit and study permit guidance
Contact us today for a personalized immigration assessment.
*Week of January 11-18, 2026* *Last updated: January 19, 2026*
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