Canada Discontinues Visitor-to-Work Permit Policy as of August 28

Significant changes have occurred as a result of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unexpectedly discontinuing the interim public policy that permitted travelers to apply for work permits while they were still in Canada.

This policy modification took effect on August 28, even though it was initially scheduled to end on February 28, 2025. In an unexpected move, the IRCC opted to end it earlier than intended, making the change effective immediately on August 28, 2024.

However, IRCC has stressed that all applications submitted before August 28, 2024, will continue to be handled under the former procedure.

Initially implemented in August 2020 in response to the COVID-19 epidemic, this program provided a critical chance for many foreign nationals to transition to worker status while remaining in Canada.

However, the elimination of it brings in a new era in Canada’s immigration scene, closing the door for legitimate travelers to abuse the policy.

Background: A Policy That Makes Impact

The temporary policy was introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic when the world was facing unprecedented challenges. Travel restrictions, lockdowns, and border closures left many visitors in Canada with no clear way to move forward.

In response, IRCC introduced a policy allowing visitors already in the country to apply for work permits without needing to leave Canada. This was especially helpful for those who had previously held work permits but had to switch to “visitor” status due to job losses or other disruptions caused by the pandemic.

The policy also allowed these individuals to start working while their new work permit applications were being processed, offering much-needed financial relief.

Why the Policy Was Ended Early?

The early termination of this policy is part of IRCC’s broader plan to better manage the number of temporary residents in Canada and protect the immigration system’s integrity.

The official statement from IRCC mentioned concerns that some individuals might misuse the policy, leading to foreign nationals working without the proper authorization.

IRCC also stressed the need to adjust the temporary resident population, which has grown significantly since the pandemic began. The government is now focusing on keeping a fair and balanced immigration system that aligns with Canada’s long-term economic and social goals.

Impact on Visitors in Canada

For visitors currently in Canada who were planning to apply for a work permit under this policy, the sudden end of the policy may cause significant challenges.

Those who did not apply before the deadline will now need to look into other options if they want to work in Canada. This could mean leaving the country to reapply from abroad or finding other immigration routes that allow them to work legally.

Examining the Numbers: Temporary Residents in Canada

The end of this policy comes at a time when Canada is dealing with a record-high number of temporary residents.

New figures reveal a big jump in the count of short-term foreign workers and students from other countries in recent years. This has led to a big increase in the number of people living here for a short time.

By 2023, Canada had more than 800,000 international students and over 400,000 temporary foreign workers, numbers that have continued to grow rapidly.

This surge has sparked concerns about Canada’s ability to manage such a large temporary population, especially in areas like housing, social services, and labor market integration.

IRCC’s decision to terminate the policy is likely part of a broader effort to address these challenges by tightening regulations around temporary residents and ensuring that those who remain in Canada do so through proper and controlled channels.

What Visitors Need to Know Moving Forward?

With the policy ending, visitors in Canada can no longer apply for work permits from inside the country.

For those on a visitor visa who want to work, here are some other options:

• Apply for a Work Permit from Outside Canada: Visitors can leave Canada and apply for a work permit from their home country or another place where they have legal status. This involves securing employment with a Canadian company and, in most situations getting a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• Check Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces have programs that let temporary residents apply for permanent residency or work permits. Visitors should look into these programs to see if they qualify.
• International Mobility Program (IMP): This program enables selected foreign nationals to work in Canada without an LMIA. However, the eligibility requirements are strict, so not everyone will qualify.
• Study in Canada: Enrolling in a Canadian school can lead to a study permit, which might include work rights. This choice needs a lot of time and cash to put into action.
• Visitor to Permanent Resident Pathways: Though rare, there are pathways for visitors to transition to permanent residency, especially if they have close family in Canada or meet specific criteria.

What This Means for the Future?

The sudden end of the policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits from within Canada marks a big shift in the immigration system.

While the policy was helpful during the COVID-19 pandemic, its end shows IRCC’s focus on managing the number of temporary residents and keeping the immigration system fair and secure. Visitors in Canada will need to find new ways to work or stay long-term. The impact of this decision on Canada’s temporary residency and future immigration policies will be closely watched. Canada remains committed to a fair and balanced immigration system that serves everyone’s best interests.