REALnorth Opportunities Fund

Canada has kicked off 2026 with a strong start to its International Experience Canada program, issuing more than 10,000 work permit invitations in the first Working Holiday Visa draw of the year. The opening round has drawn global attention, especially from young workers eager to live and work in Canada amid ongoing labour shortages and Continue reading

Canada’s work permit system is heading into a significant transition in 2026. Immigration authorities are restructuring how extensions are assessed, processed, and approved, with a strong focus on eligibility tightening, digital processing, and faster turnaround times. These changes are expected to affect temporary foreign workers, international graduates, employer-supported workers, and those transitioning between permit types. Continue reading

Canadians are hearing a lot about a new grocery benefit and a significant increase to the GST/HST credit. With food prices still elevated and household budgets under pressure, the idea of added federal support has captured attention quickly. Many families want clear answers. What exactly is coming, who qualifies, how much could be paid, and Continue reading

The first Old Age Security payment of 2026 is approaching, and for millions of Canadian seniors, this one matters more than usual. The January 28, 2026 OAS payment is expected to reflect the next scheduled increase, giving retirees a slightly higher monthly amount as the new year begins. For seniors relying on fixed incomes, this Continue reading

Rising living costs continue to put pressure on households across Canada, particularly seniors, low-income families, and people relying on fixed or modest incomes. In response to these ongoing challenges, the Canada Revenue Agency has confirmed a $900 one-time cost-of-living payment scheduled for January 2026. The payment is intended to provide short-term relief at the start Continue reading

Canada’s Employment Insurance system is expected to see meaningful changes starting in 2026. While the core purpose of EI remains the same, to provide temporary income support to workers who lose their jobs or cannot work due to specific life events, the rules that govern eligibility, benefit amounts, and payment timing are evolving. Rising living Continue reading

Major changes are coming to the Canada Pension Plan in 2026, and they will affect millions of working Canadians, retirees, and future pensioners. Often referred to as “CPP 2.0,” these changes build on reforms that began several years ago and are designed to strengthen retirement income, especially for middle- and higher-earning workers. Unlike one-time relief Continue reading

Canadian seniors are heading into 2026 with higher federal retirement income, as increases to both the Canada Pension Plan (CPP) and Old Age Security (OAS) are set to take effect in January. With inflation still affecting everyday expenses, the upcoming adjustment is expected to bring meaningful relief to retirees and older Canadians who rely on Continue reading

February 2026 is shaping up to be an important month for millions of Canadians who rely on Canada Revenue Agency administered benefits. Several major federal and provincial support payments are scheduled to arrive during the month, providing much-needed financial relief as households continue to manage high living costs. From families with children to seniors, low-income Continue reading

As Canadians head into 2026, attention is turning once again to Canada Pension Plan payments and what retirees can expect in the new year. Recent discussion has focused on a CPP payment figure of $1,533, with January 26, 2026 frequently mentioned as the first major payment date of the year. While headlines have framed this Continue reading