Starting April 1, 2025, the Government of Canada has rolled out a new wave of temporary Employment Insurance (EI) reforms aimed at helping workers hit by layoffs, economic uncertainty, or shifting industries. These changes are designed to get benefits to people faster, increase payment amounts, and lower barriers to qualification—especially in regions with low unemployment rates.
Table of Contents
If you’ve recently lost your job, are a seasonal worker, or are planning to claim maternity or sickness benefits this year, these changes could have a big impact on your finances.
Here’s a full breakdown of the new rules, who they apply to, and how to make the most of them.
Why Did Canada Change the EI Rules in 2025?
Canada is facing new economic pressures in 2025—from global trade disruptions to domestic slowdowns in retail, construction, and tourism. With unemployment rates fluctuating across provinces, the government is using EI as a buffer to support workers and regional economies.
These new measures are temporary, but they offer meaningful improvements to Canada’s safety net.
Bigger EI Payments & Lower Premiums in 2025: What Canadians Can Expect from Employment Insurance
EI Benefit Increase 2025: New Amount, Rates & Premiums
New EI Max Contribution Limit, Rates & Weekly Benefits Increase for 2025
1. No Waiting Period for EI Payments Until October 2025
What Changed?
The standard one-week unpaid waiting period for EI claims has been waived for claims made between March 30 and October 11, 2025.
Why It Matters:
This means faster access to your first EI payment, which can make a big difference when you need to cover essentials like rent, groceries, or bills.
Who Benefits?
- Workers applying for regular EI (e.g. layoffs)
- Claimants of maternity, parental, or sickness benefits
- Seasonal fishers applying for fishing EI
Caution: If your employer provides an SUB top-up plan (Supplemental Unemployment Benefit), you might still want to serve the waiting period to maximize your total payout. Check with Service Canada or your HR department.
2. Keep Severance, Vacation Pay and Full EI Benefits
What Changed?
If you receive separation earnings—such as severance pay, unused vacation pay, or bonuses—you normally see a deduction in your EI benefits. Not anymore.
For claims between March 30 and October 11, 2025, these payments won’t reduce your EI amount.
Real-Life Example:
Sarah from Ontario is laid off with $2,000 severance.
Old rule: Her EI benefits would be delayed or reduced.
New rule: She gets full EI + full severance, giving her financial breathing room.
Why It Matters:
This is a huge win for laid-off workers who count on separation packages to stay afloat while job hunting.
3. Lower Bar to Qualify for EI in Regions With Low Unemployment
What Changed?
From April 6 to July 12, 2025, the government is artificially increasing regional unemployment rates to make it easier for people to qualify for EI.
How It Works:
- If your region’s unemployment rate is 6.1% or less, it will be raised to 7.1%
- If it’s between 6.2% and 12%, it goes up 1%
- If it’s 12.1% to 13%, it’s rounded up to 13.1%
- If your area is already above 13.1%, no changes apply
Why It Matters:
The higher your region’s unemployment rate, the fewer work hours or earnings you need to qualify.
| Adjusted Rate | Regular EI Hours Needed | Fishing Earnings Needed |
|---|---|---|
| 7.1% | 630 hours | $3,800 |
| 7.2% to 13% | 455–630 hours | $2,700–$3,800 |
| 13.1%+ | 420 hours | $2,500 |
Example:
John, a seasonal construction worker in Calgary, lives in a region with a 5.8% unemployment rate. Under the new rules, it’s bumped to 7.1%, reducing his required work hours to qualify for EI.
Who’s Eligible Under the New 2025 EI Rules?
Regular EI Claimants
- Lost job due to no fault of your own
- Worked the required number of insurable hours
- Actively looking for work
Fishing Benefits Claimants
- Earned enough in fishing income within the qualifying window
- Meets the new regional thresholds
Special Benefits Claimants
- Maternity, parental, sickness, caregiver, or compassionate care
- Benefit from the waived waiting period
How To Apply for EI Benefits in 2025
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Use the EI Eligibility Tool or contact Service Canada.
Step 2: Gather Documents
- Record of Employment (ROE)
- Social Insurance Number (SIN)
- Direct deposit banking info
- Details of separation earnings
Step 3: Apply Online
Submit your claim on the Service Canada EI Portal as soon as you stop working.
Step 4: Submit Biweekly Reports
Update your work and job search activity to keep your claim active.
Pro Tip:
Apply even if unsure—Service Canada will assess your eligibility and let you know what benefits you’re entitled to.
What’s Next for Canada’s EI System?
These measures are temporary, ending on:
- October 11, 2025 (waiting period and separation earnings changes)
- July 12, 2025 (adjusted unemployment rates)
However, there is strong public and policy advocacy to make some changes permanent, including:
- Lowering minimum work hour requirements
- Expanding EI to cover gig workers and freelancers
- Increasing benefit durations
Final Thoughts: Why These Changes Matter in 2025
The 2025 EI reforms provide critical relief for workers across Canada facing unpredictable job markets. Whether you’re dealing with a layoff, seasonal work stoppage, or starting parental leave, the new rules can help you get paid faster and keep more of what you’re owed.
Spread the word, share with colleagues, and make sure you’re taking advantage of the EI changes while they last.