Statistics Canada releases August 2026 foreign post cost-of-living indexes

Statistics Canada has released the August 2026 issue of Canadian Foreign Post Indexes, including newly added posts since the publication was last updated on March 23, 2026.

These indexes measure cost-of-living differences between foreign locations and Ottawa, establishing the baseline for adjusting Post Living Allowances (PLA) paid to Canadian government employees serving outside Canada. Two separate sets of indexes apply: one for personnel working under Foreign Service Directives (FSDs), and another for Canadian Forces members serving under Military Foreign Service Instructions (MFSIs) or FSDs, who may receive supplies or allowances from the Department of National Defence or the United Nations.

As of March 2026, Statistics Canada transitioned the publication to an annual schedule, with updated indexes taking effect each April 1. The French title was also formally changed from "Les indices de mission canadienne à l'étranger" to "Les indices de poste canadien à l'étranger."

For more information or questions about concepts, methods, or data quality, Statistics Canada can be reached toll-free at 1-800-263-1136, by phone at 514-283-8300, or via email at infostats@statcan.gc.ca.