Canada has become stricter with immigration policies in 2026, and honestly yaar, it’s hitting Indian students the hardest. The Express Entry system now requires minimum 480 points for Federal Skilled Worker Program, up from 400 points in previous years. Mumbai and Delhi immigration consultants are reporting 40% fewer successful applications this year.
#Canada #newstrendss #IndiaNews
Express Entry Points System Gets Tougher
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) has new requirements that are making life difficult for Indian applicants. Age factor now reduces points faster – if you’re above 30, you lose 5 points every year instead of the earlier 3 points.
Language requirements have also increased. IELTS scores below 7.5 in each band won’t get you maximum points anymore. PTE and CELPIP are still accepted, but the cut-offs are similar.
- Federal Skilled Worker: Minimum 480 CRS points
- Canadian Experience Class: Minimum 420 CRS points
- Provincial Nominee Program: Additional 600 points still available
- French language bonus: Up to 50 extra points
Study Permit Changes Affecting Indian Students
Matlab, the study permit process has become more expensive and complicated. International students from India now need to show ₹25 lakh in bank statements for a single year, up from ₹18 lakh earlier.
Popular colleges like Seneca College, Centennial College, and Conestoga College are seeing fewer Indian applications. The Student Direct Stream (SDS) processing time has increased to 8-12 weeks from the earlier 4-6 weeks.
Work permit rules for students have also changed. You can only work 24 hours per week during studies, and the 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is now limited to specific programs only.
Provincial Nominee Programs Still Popular
Arre bhai, there’s still hope through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) and British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP) are actively selecting candidates.
Alberta and Saskatchewan are particularly welcoming skilled workers in healthcare and technology sectors. The processing fees have increased to CAD 1,500 (approximately ₹95,000) but success rates remain good for qualified candidates.
- Ontario: 9,750 nominations allocated for 2026
- British Columbia: 8,500 nominations available
- Alberta: 6,250 spots for skilled workers
- Saskatchewan: 5,000 nominations through various streams
Job Market Reality for Indians in Canada
The job market is competitive yaar, especially in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. Software developers and healthcare workers are still in demand, but entry-level positions are harder to find.
Indian professionals in cities like Brampton, Mississauga, and Surrey are doing well, but new immigrants face challenges. Average starting salaries have increased though – software engineers now earn CAD 75,000-85,000 (₹48-54 lakh annually).
Honestly, if you’re planning Canada immigration in 2026, start preparing early. Get your language scores up, gain work experience, and consider less popular provinces. The dream is still achievable, but it requires better planning than before.