December 2025 Brings Changes For Canadians Nationwide

December brings major changes across Canada. Many residents look forward to the return of the Canada Strong Pass. The program runs from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026. Prime Minister Mark Carney says the pass also comes back in summer 2026.

The pass brings free access to national parks and historic sites. It offers discounts at campgrounds and on overnight stays. It also gives free or reduced admission at many museums and galleries. VIA Rail riders get free or discounted fares on select routes.

Canadians do not need a card or account. They can simply visit a participating park, museum, or travel partner. Staff apply the discounts at the time of entry.

The government says the pass helps families travel during an expensive season. It also supports tourism and encourages Canadians to explore the country.

New Workplace Leave Rules Start December 12

New workplace rules arrive on December 12. These rules update the Canada Labour Code. They support workers who face pregnancy loss and other major life events.

The rules give up to eight weeks of leave after a stillbirth at or after 20 weeks. They give up to three days of leave for other pregnancy losses. Workers with at least three months of service get pay for the first three days. Workers can take leave once per pregnancy.

Other changes strengthen job security. Workers on long leaves keep their benefits. They get updates on job openings. They can adjust their leave length with proper notice. They also return to the same or a similar position.

The government also increases bereavement leave. The new limit is eight weeks for the death of a child of the worker, their spouse, or their partner. Officials say these updates give stronger support during painful and stressful periods.

Drug Controls Tighten on December 19

Canada introduces permanent controls on the sedative carisoprodol on December 19. The drug appears in illegal markets worldwide. Some people misuse it with opioids. Canada does not approve it for medical use.

Officials say they saw more attempts to bring the drug into the country. Border agents stopped many shipments during temporary controls in February. They say permanent controls help them investigate drug networks more effectively.

The Controlled Drugs and Substances Act now covers the substance. Anyone who imports, sells, distributes, or carries it illegally faces penalties. The government says these steps protect communities and reduce risks linked to organized crime.

Toronto Opens 2025 Vacant Home Tax Portal

Toronto homeowners must now file their 2025 Vacant Home Tax declaration. The portal is open for all residential property owners. The declaration covers January 1 to December 31, 2025. The deadline is April 30, 2026.

The tax applies to homes left empty for more than six months. Exemptions apply to principal residences and eligible occupants. Owners who skip the declaration risk an automatic vacant status. That status triggers the tax.

Toronto says the tax encourages better use of housing. The city continues to push for more supply and fewer empty properties.