Alberta to hold referendum on immigration and provincial powers
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith has announced a referendum for October 19, 2026. The ballot will contain nine questions: five on immigration and access to provincial programs, and four on constitutional and fiscal changes.
Canada is changing the Express Entry rules in 2026
Canada has announced its Express Entry categories for 2026: new IRCC priorities, with a focus on Canadian experience, transportation, doctors, researchers, and military roles.
WestJet launches four new domestic routes from Calgary and Edmonton
WestJet has announced four new domestic routes for summer 2026: three from Calgary (YYC) and one between Edmonton (YEG) and Terrace (YXT), as well as increased frequencies on popular routes.
Daniel Smith stated that she did not sign the petition for the separation of the province.
Alberta Premier Danielle Smith said she did not sign a petition for a referendum on the province's withdrawal from Canada. The initiative runs until May 2, 2026, and requires 177,732 signatures.
US House of Representatives repeals tariffs on Canadian goods
The US House of Representatives passed H.J.Res.72 to end the state of emergency and repeal the 35% tariff on Canadian goods. The vote was 219–211, and the bill will now go to the Senate for consideration.
Canada launches new federal subsidies for electric vehicles
Starting February 16, 2026, Canada may launch the EVAP program: up to $5,000 for electric vehicles and $2,500 for PHEVs, with a price limit of $50,000, an exception for Canadian-made cars, and a schedule for reducing subsidies until 2030.
Almost 300,000 Ukrainians in Canada without a separate path to PR: communities increase pressure on the government
Ukrainians in Canada who came under the CUAET found themselves in limbo without a clear path to PR. We explain what is known about status extensions, the e-6866 petition, and community demands.
Alberta suspends changes to health insurance for some temporary foreign workers
Alberta has put on hold changes that could have deprived some temporary foreign workers, including young people on working holiday visas, of medical coverage.
Trump demands compensation from Canada for allowing a bridge to the US to be opened
Trump said the US would not allow the Gordie Howe Bridge between Ontario and Michigan to open without “full compensation” and called for immediate negotiations.
Most Albertans oppose separation from Canada
Angus Reid poll: 65% of Albertans want to remain in Canada, 29% want to leave. Details, context, and key findings.
PR in Alberta 2026: AAIP official priorities and nomination distribution announced
The AAIP has released data for 2026: 6,403 nominations, priority sectors, quota distribution by streams, and EOI pool. Updated as of February 5, 2026.
CIUS (University of Alberta) has announced the opening of applications for the Kolasky Visiting Research Fellowship 2026–2027
CIUS at the University of Alberta is accepting applications for the Kolasky Visiting Research Fellowship 2026–2027: up to 4 months of paid research. Deadline: March 1, 2026.