IRCC extends the pause on Group of Five and Community Sponsor refugee applications to the end of 2026, Bill C-3 receives royal assent to modernize citizenship by descent, and Manitoba and PEI issue new provincial invitations. Practical guidance and next steps for students, workers, families—and sponsors planning ahead.
Canada Immigration Update: Refugee Sponsorship Pause Extended, Bill C-3 Royal Assent, MPNP & PEI PNP Draws
Refugee Sponsorship Pause Extended to December 31, 2026
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has prolonged the temporary pause on new Private Sponsorship of Refugees (PSR) applications under the Group of Five and Community Sponsor streams through the end of 2026. Existing files will continue to be processed, while Canada maintains arrivals through other PSR channels aligned with the 2026–2028 Levels Plan. If you’re considering future sponsorship or parallel pathways, speak with a regulated team to map a compliant strategy that balances timelines and admissibility requirements. Start with a quick Free Assessment or contact us via the Contact Page.
Bill C-3 Receives Royal Assent: Modernizing Citizenship by Descent
Ottawa’s citizenship reform (Bill C-3) has received royal assent, paving the way—upon order in council—for Canadians previously limited by the first-generation rule to pass citizenship to children born or adopted abroad, subject to demonstrating substantial ties to Canada. Families navigating cross-border births or adoptions should review documentation, residence history, and eligibility evidence early. Explore long-term options through Permanent Resident Canada and tailored sponsorship strategies on Family Sponsorship.
Manitoba and PEI Issue New Invitations
MPNP – Skilled Worker Streams
On November 21, 2025, Manitoba invited 35 candidates under the Skilled Worker in Manitoba and Skilled Workers Overseas streams, including five with Express Entry profiles. If you have Manitoba ties, targeted work experience, or employer support, an eligibility review can clarify your next steps. Begin with the Free Assessment.
PEI PNP – French-Speaking Candidates & Priority Sectors
On November 20, 2025, PEI issued 190 invitations prioritizing French-speaking candidates in sectors with strong economic impact, including international graduates of UPEI, Holland College, and Collège de l’Île. Francophone or bilingual applicants should align language scores, job offers, and settlement plans to PEI’s criteria. For study-to-PR planning, review Study Permits.
What This Means for You
- Prospective sponsors: Use the pause period to gather evidence, prepare finances, and explore interim pathways with professional guidance via the Contact Page.
- Families abroad: With Bill C-3 royal assent, prepare documentation showing substantial Canadian ties. For alternative routes, see Family Sponsorship.
- Workers & graduates: Track provincial draws and match your profile to in-demand occupations. See Permanent Resident Canada.
- Students: Choose compliant programs that support PGWP and provincial pathways. Learn more under Study Permits.
Call to Action
Make a compliant plan—and stay ahead of policy changes:
- Start your Free Assessment
- Explore Permanent Resident Canada
- Plan Study Permits and study-to-PR pathways
- Reunite via Family Sponsorship
- Have questions? Visit the Contact Page
- If we’ve helped you, leave a review on Google
Featured Services
| Service | Visit |
|---|---|
| Go Canada Services (Home) | Go Canada Services |
| Permanent Resident Canada | Permanent Resident Canada |
| Study Permits | Study Permits |
| Family Sponsorship | Family Sponsorship |
| Free Assessment | Go Canada Services’ Free Assessment |
| Contact Our Team | Contact Page |
| Leave a Review | review on Google |
Hashtags
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FAQ
What can sponsors do during the PSR pause?
Prepare documentation, settlement plans, and financials; explore alternative humanitarian or family pathways where eligible; and monitor intake updates. Begin planning with the Free Assessment.
How does Bill C-3 affect citizenship by descent?
Once in force, eligible Canadians can transmit citizenship to children born or adopted abroad, subject to meeting “substantial ties” criteria. Gather evidence of residence and connections now and seek guidance via the Contact Page.
Do provincial draws help if I’m in Express Entry?
Yes. Provincial nominations can add 600 points to your CRS, often resulting in an ITA. Check options that match your occupation and language profile through Permanent Resident Canada.