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Canada Immigration Weekly Update — September 21 to September 27, 2026

September 27, 2026 Beaver Immigration Team Canadian News

Canada's immigration landscape continues to evolve, with several important updates released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) this week. These changes affect international students, protected persons, temporary foreign workers, Quebec applicants, and professionals entering Canada under international trade agreements. Several important program deadlines are also approaching in October.

At a Glance: What These Updates Mean for You

  • International students should review new guidance regarding custodianship requirements for minor children and study permit renewals under the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP).
  • Protected persons applying for A70 open work permits should familiarize themselves with updated biometric processing and fee requirements.
  • Quebec applicants should take note of revised A73 work permit instructions and the upcoming October 31 deadline for Quebec's temporarily reopened PEQ pathway.
  • Employers and foreign professionals using CETA, CUKTCA, and CKFTA pathways will benefit from clearer eligibility guidance for contractual service suppliers and independent professionals.
  • Applicants benefiting from temporary public policies should be aware of upcoming expiry dates, particularly those related to Sudan-specific immigration measures.

IRCC Policy and Program Updates

Contractual Service Suppliers and Independent Professionals

Updated September 21, 2026

IRCC updated its guidance for contractual service suppliers and independent professionals applying under CETA, CUKTCA, and CKFTA. The revisions improve readability while providing additional clarity regarding eligibility requirements and pre-arranged employment criteria.

Who may be affected: Foreign service providers, consultants, and independent professionals seeking temporary entry to Canada under applicable trade agreements.

Study Permits: Minor Children and Custodianship

Updated September 22, 2026

New guidance clarifies how custodial information from IMM 5646 should be recorded in GCMS, addresses situations where minors travel with only one parent, and provides a clearer definition of custodianship requirements.

Who may be affected: International students under the age of majority, parents, guardians, and custodians.

Protected Persons: A70 Open Work Permits

Updated September 22, 2026

IRCC revised its instructions for protected persons applying for work permits under exemption code A70. Updates include corrections to biometric processing procedures, fee information, and supporting guidance.

Who may be affected: Individuals with protected status applying for initial or renewed work authorization.

Immigration Medical Examination Exemption

Updated September 22, 2026

IRCC clarified eligibility requirements under the temporary public policy exempting certain foreign nationals already in Canada from completing an Immigration Medical Examination (IME).

Who may be affected: Temporary residents and other eligible foreign nationals currently residing in Canada.

Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP)

Updated September 24, 2026

The FMCSP guidance has been expanded to include study permit renewal requirements, financial support requirements, acceptable proof of continued enrolment, and procedures for accompanying family members. Additional clarification was also provided regarding continued FMCSP designation.

Who may be affected: Francophone international students and their family members.

Quebec CSQ Holders: A73 Work Permits

Updated September 25, 2026

IRCC updated instructions for certain Quebec Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) holders applying for A73 work permits. The revisions include references to the PSTQ and the reopened Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), along with expanded officer review guidance.

Who may be affected: Eligible CSQ holders and Quebec-based employers.

Important Upcoming Immigration Deadlines

October 7, 2026 — British Columbia Temporary Rural and Remote Health Support Initiative

  • The registration deadline has been extended for British Columbia's Temporary Rural and Remote Health Support Initiative.

October 8, 2026 — Yukon Nominee Program Public Consultation

  • This is the final day to participate in Yukon's public engagement process regarding the review of the Yukon Nominee Program. Feedback received will help shape anticipated program changes beginning in 2027.

October 27, 2026 — Expiry of Sudan Temporary Immigration Measures

  • IRCC's temporary immigration measures for individuals affected by the conflict in Sudan are scheduled to expire.
  • Individuals and families currently relying on these measures should review their eligibility and ensure any necessary applications are submitted before the deadline.

October 31, 2026 — Quebec Experience Program (PEQ) Temporary Reopening Closes

  • The temporary reopening of Quebec's PEQ pathway for eligible Quebec graduates and temporary foreign workers is scheduled to close on October 31, 2026.
  • Applicants planning to use this pathway should ensure they are prepared to submit before the program window closes.

Need Help With Your Canadian Immigration Journey?

Canadian immigration programs and policies continue to change throughout the year. Whether you are considering a study permit, work permit, provincial nominee program, or permanent residence application, staying informed is essential to making the right decisions.

Beaver Migration & Recruitment helps individuals, families, students, and employers navigate Canada's immigration system with confidence.

Client Note: This update is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration rules, policies, and processing practices can change. Applicants should seek professional advice regarding their individual circumstances.
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