September 2026 is bringing several important Ontario laws and rule changes that could affect students, tenants, commuters, drivers, and newcomers. From OSAP changes and new landlord-tenant rules to TTC fare capping and higher GO Transit fines, these updates may have a direct impact on everyday life in Ontario.
If you are a newcomer, international student, temporary resident or someone planning to settle permanently in Canada, understanding these changes can help you make better decisions about your future.
1. New Ontario School Rules
Ontario has introduced significant changes to secondary school assessment for the 2026–27 school year. Students in Grades 9 and 10 will have their final marks based on classroom work, final evaluation, and attendance/participation. Grades 11 and 12 will follow a slightly different weighting.
A new financial literacy graduation requirement also applies to students who began Grade 9 in 2025–26 or later.
2. OSAP and Ontario Tuition Changes
The long-standing domestic tuition freeze has ended. Public colleges and universities can increase tuition by up to 2% annually under the new framework.
There are also major OSAP changes in 2026. For the 2026–27 academic year, students will receive a larger proportion of their provincial assistance as loans rather than grants. The official Ontario government confirms these changes apply to programs beginning on or after August 1, 2026.
For international students in Canada, understanding tuition, financial requirements and study-permit rules remains particularly important when planning an education pathway.
3. Major Ontario Landlord-Tenant Changes
Starting September 21, 2026, important amendments to Ontario’s Residential Tenancies Act take effect.
One major change is the reduction of the N4 non-payment notice period for monthly and yearly tenancies from 14 days to 7 days. New rules also address persistent late rent payments and renovation-related notices.
Tenants and landlords should carefully review the rules before taking action.
4. Ontario Expands Primary Healthcare
Ontario is launching another major expansion of primary-care teams, with the province targeting approximately 78 new or expanded teams and an estimated 600,000 additional people gaining access to a family doctor or primary-care provider.
Healthcare remains an important consideration for newcomers building a long-term life in Canada.
5. More Ontario Highways Moving to 110 km/h
Ontario is expanding its 110 km/h highway speed limits, with approximately 938 additional kilometres scheduled for the higher posted limit. By the end of September, the province expects nearly 89% of its provincial highway network to operate at 110 km/h.
Drivers should always follow the posted speed limit because stunt-driving penalties remain significant.
6. Ontario Medical School Admission Changes
Beginning with the fall 2026 admission cycle, Ontario medical schools must reserve at least 95% of undergraduate seats for Ontario residents, subject to applicable exceptions.
This is particularly relevant for students considering studying in Canada and planning careers in healthcare.
7. New School-Zone Warning Signs
Ontario municipalities that previously used automated speed-enforcement cameras in school zones must install permanent flashing warning signs by September 2026.
The signs are intended to improve driver awareness around schools following the provincial ban on municipal speed cameras.
8. GO Transit Schedule Changes
September brings service adjustments to several GO Transit lines, including Lakeshore East, Lakeshore West, Barrie and Stouffville.
Rush-hour rail service remains unchanged, while some evening and weekend services are being reduced or adjusted.
9. TTC Monthly Fare Capping
One of the biggest changes for Toronto commuters started September 1. Eligible TTC riders who use the same PRESTO card, debit card, credit card or mobile wallet can ride free after 47 paid trips in a calendar month.
The trip count resets every month, and riders need to consistently use the same payment method for their trips to accumulate toward the cap.
10. Higher GO Transit and UP Express Fare-Evasion Fines
Beginning September 8, 2026, GO Transit and UP Express fare-evasion fines will increase substantially.
The first offence will carry a $200 fine, followed by $300 for a second offence, $400 for a third and $500 for a fourth. Later offences can result in fines of $600 or potentially up to $1,000 upon conviction.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
For newcomers and temporary residents, keeping up with provincial changes is only one part of successfully building a future in Canada. Choosing the right Canadian immigration pathway is equally important.
ICC Immigration can assess your circumstances and help identify suitable options for Permanent Residency in Canada. Depending on your profile, this may include Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) and other available immigration pathways.
Our services include:
- Permanent Residency Applications: Assistance with Express Entry, PNPs and other PR pathways.
- Work Permits and Study Permits: Guidance for people looking to work or study in Canada as part of their long-term immigration plans.
- Family Sponsorship: Support for eligible applicants seeking to reunite with family members in Canada.
- Professional Immigration Guidance: Help understanding changing immigration requirements and preparing applications accurately.
Rather than making major decisions based on uncertainty, it is important to understand the legal immigration options available in Canada and choose a pathway that fits your circumstances.
Whether you are already in Canada or planning your immigration to Canada, ICC Immigration can help you understand your options and navigate the process with greater confidence.
Important: Immigration eligibility depends on individual circumstances and current government requirements. Professional advice should be obtained before making immigration decisions.