Canada’s latest immigration updates: 4,500 Francophone Express Entry invitations, Manitoba labour concerns, extended open work permits, and Gaza visa delays.
IRCC Invited 4,500 Francophone Candidates in the New Express Entry Draw
Strong Commitment to French-Speaking Immigration
On October 6, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) held a new Express Entry draw specifically targeting candidates with French language proficiency.
In round #371, IRCC issued 4,500 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to francophone candidates with a cut-off score of 432 points, marking a 14-point drop from the previous draw.
Boosting Francophone Immigration Across Canada
This milestone highlights Canada’s continued focus on strengthening French-speaking communities outside Quebec.
So far in 2025, 71,338 ITAs have been issued through 41 Express Entry draws, with nearly 30,000 going to francophone applicants.
If you wish to assess your eligibility for Express Entry or Permanent Residency, you can start with our Free Assessment.
Proposed Immigration Reforms Raise Concerns for Rural Manitoba Businesses
Labour Shortages Threaten Rural Economies
Rural businesses in Manitoba are expressing concern about the federal government’s plan to reduce temporary foreign workers to less than 5% of Canada’s population by 2027.
Industries such as agriculture and skilled trades heavily rely on foreign labour to fill essential roles, and these reductions could worsen already critical staffing gaps.
Balancing Policy and Economic Needs
Business owners fear that generalized limits could harm rural economies dependent on temporary workers.
Go Canada Services supports local employers and skilled workers through professional assistance under the Skilled Worker Program and Work Permit pathways designed to address labour shortages effectively.
Canada Extends Open Work Permit Program for Temporary Residents Until 2026
Longer Validity and Expanded Eligibility
IRCC has extended its Open Work Permit Program for individuals transitioning from temporary to permanent residency (TR2PR).
Effective October 6, 2025, this policy now allows work permits to remain valid until December 31, 2026, minimizing the need for renewals.
Enhanced Family Reunification Opportunities
The revised policy also expands eligibility to include family members residing abroad—simplifying and accelerating the Family Sponsorship process.
This extension underscores Canada’s long-term goal of promoting stability and inclusivity within its Permanent Resident framework.
Gaza Visa Program Leaves Families Waiting Nearly Two Years
Limited Progress in Humanitarian Processing
A special humanitarian visa initiative designed to bring extended family members from Gaza to Canada has seen slow progress.
Since its launch, only 880 out of 5,000 applicants have arrived in Canada, leaving thousands stranded in dangerous conditions.
Operational Barriers and Staffing Challenges
Government sources cite limited funding and a shortage of Arabic-speaking staff as major obstacles delaying security screenings and application reviews.
These challenges emphasize the need for stronger family reunification policies and resource allocation in humanitarian immigration cases.
Applicants affected by backlogs can consult Go Canada Services for personalized support and academic or integration guidance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many Francophone candidates were invited in the latest Express Entry draw?
A1: IRCC invited 4,500 Francophone candidates in round #371 with a cut-off score of 432 points.
Q2: Why are Manitoba employers worried about the new immigration reforms?
A2: The proposed reduction in temporary foreign workers could worsen existing labour shortages in rural Manitoba.
Q3: How long is the Open Work Permit Program extended for?
A3: The program has been extended until December 31, 2026, with expanded eligibility for family members abroad.
Q4: Why are Gaza visa applications facing delays?
A4: Processing delays are linked to limited funding and a shortage of Arabic-speaking staff handling the humanitarian visa applications.
Q5: How can Go Canada Services help with immigration applications?
A5: Go Canada offers expert support in Work Permits, Permanent Residency, and Family Sponsorship programs.
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