Ontario Immigrant Nominee Programme Redesigned with New 'Workforce Priority' Stream and Closure of Eight Previous Streams

What changed

On 14 October 2026, the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS), through US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), published a proposed rule that would remove the requirement for immigration officers to give deference to certain previous eligibility approvals when deciding subsequent employment-related immigration petitions. The proposal targets 8 CFR 214.1(c)(5), a regulation introduced in December 2024 that generally instructs USCIS officers to defer to an earlier approval when a subsequent request involves the same parties and underlying facts, unless a specified exception applies.

What changed

The UK Home Office has published updated guidance for caseworkers regarding the cancellation and curtailment of pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme (EUSS) and limited leave granted via an EUSS Family Permit. This guidance, updated on 12 October 2026, details new discretionary grounds for cancellation and curtailment, including the submission of false information, fraudulent assistance in obtaining immigration benefits, and involvement in marriages or civil partnerships of convenience. The changes, reflecting Statement of Changes in Immigration Rules HC 584, mean that individuals holding pre-settled status face a broader range of circumstances under which their leave may be withdrawn.

What changed

The United States government has initiated the suspension of prominent technology firms, including Microsoft and Adobe, from a visa programme that facilitates permanent residency for skilled foreign workers. This measure, announced by US Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling, stems from claims of visa fraud and aims to prioritise American employment. Concurrently, an investigation has commenced into alleged J-1 visa fraud involving several universities accused of undercutting US wages by employing international students. The policy came into effect immediately following the announcement on 8 October 2026, impacting the ability of these entities to utilise specific visa categories for foreign labour.

What changed

UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) has updated the 'Right to work checklist', effective from 1 October 2026. This update provides employers with revised information on the procedures for carrying out right to work checks for their staff in the United Kingdom. Employers must now adhere to the new guidelines to ensure compliance and avoid penalties for illegal working. This change impacts how employers verify the eligibility of individuals to work in the UK.