December 2025 arrives with a series of major laws, policy changes, and federal updates that residents of Canada from coast to coast must know.

From nationwide travel benefits returning for the holidays to new workplace leave rights, strengthened drug controls, and an important municipal tax reminder for Toronto homeowners, these changes will impact families, workers, and travellers coast to coast.

Here is a complete overview of the most important updates coming into effect this month that people in Canada must be aware of.

One of the biggest national changes this month is the renewal of the Canada Strong Pass—a federal initiative designed to help Canadians travel affordably across the country.

Prime Minister Mark Carney confirmed that the renewed pass will be active from December 12, 2025, to January 15, 2026, and will return for summer 2026 as well.

There is no physical pass or registration. Canadians simply need to visit any participating site or travel partner to receive free admission or discounted fares.

The federal government says the renewal is meant to support domestic tourism, ease holiday travel costs, and encourage families to explore Canada’s attractions.

The federal labour protections will take effect on December 12, 2025, through amendments to the Canada Labour Code.

These changes strengthen employee rights following pregnancy loss and modernize long-term leave rules for federally regulated workers.

The government is also expanding bereavement leave to up to eight weeks for the death of a child of the employee, their spouse, or common-law partner.

These amendments represent a major update to labour protections across Canada, offering stronger support for workers dealing with loss while ensuring job security and continuity.

Permanent Federal Controls on Sedative Take Effect December 19

Canada is introducing permanent federal controls on the sedative drug carisoprodol, effective December 19, 2025.

Carisoprodol is used in some countries as a muscle relaxant but is not approved in Canada.

The drug has been detected in illegal markets worldwide and has raised concerns due to its misuse alongside opioids.

Temporary emergency controls implemented in February 2025 helped border agents intercept illegal shipments.

With permanent controls now in place, any unauthorized possession, importation, sale, or distribution of the drug will lead to penalties under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Federal officials say the move aims to crack down on illegal drug networks, reduce health risks, and protect communities as part of Canada’s broader anti-organized crime strategy.

Toronto Vacant Home Tax 2025 Declaration Portal Now Open

Although this change applies specifically to Toronto residents, it remains one of the key updates Canadians need to be aware of this month — especially for homeowners in the country’s largest city.

The City of Toronto has opened its declaration portal for the 2025 Vacant Home Tax (VHT).

All residential property owners must submit a declaration for the occupancy period of January 1 to December 31, 2025. The deadline is April 30, 2026.

The tax applies to residential properties left vacant for more than six months in the year, unless covered by exemptions such as principal residence status or occupancy by an eligible resident.

Owners who fail to submit the declaration risk having their home automatically assessed as vacant, triggering the tax.

Toronto continues to enforce the VHT as part of its efforts to increase housing supply and limit speculative property vacancies.

December 2025 brings impactful national changes for Canadians, including federal travel benefits, new workplace protections, strengthened drug enforcement measures, and key municipal tax requirements in Toronto.

Staying informed ensures Canadians can take advantage of new programs, avoid penalties, and understand how these December updates may affect them going into 2026.

The federal government is bringing back the Canada Strong Pass because the initial launch generated a significant surge in domestic travel, especially among families who would not normally travel due to high costs. Internal federal briefings revealed that the program helped boost regional tourism revenue, improved VIA Rail ridership numbers, and increased foot traffic at national museums. The renewed pass aims to continue stimulating local economies while providing seasonal financial relief during a period when travel is typically more expensive.

Why did Canada decide to impose permanent controls on carisoprodol instead of keeping temporary restrictions?

Federal health and enforcement agencies found that temporary controls did not fully deter organized crime groups from trying to bring the substance into Canada. Carisoprodol is often mixed with opioids or counterfeit pills, which increases overdose risks. Permanent controls allow border agents and police to conduct more aggressive investigations, impose stronger penalties, and share intelligence more efficiently with international partners. These measures help Canada align with global drug-control standards.

How will Toronto verify whether a property was actually vacant or occupied?

Toronto uses several verification tools beyond homeowner declarations. These include utility-usage audits, mail delivery patterns, 311 complaints, building permits, and data-sharing agreements with provincial and federal agencies. If a declaration appears suspicious, the city may request additional documentation, such as lease agreements, tax filings, or proof of occupancy. Toronto’s compliance team has increased random audits to reduce false reporting and ensure the tax targets genuine long-term vacancies. (Immigration News Canada)