Canada Ends Temporary Public Policy Allowing Visitors to Apply for Work Permits from Within the Country
Ottawa, August 28, 2024— In a significant shift in immigration policy, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the immediate termination of a temporary public policy that had allowed visitors in Canada to apply for work permits from within the country. This unexpected move marks a turning point in how Canada manages its temporary resident population.
The End of an Era: COVID-19 Response Policy Concludes Early
The temporary policy was first introduced in August 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, as a measure to support visitors who were stranded in Canada due to global travel restrictions. The policy allowed these visitors to apply for a work permit without needing to leave the country, offering a lifeline for those who found themselves in uncertain situations. Furthermore, it enabled foreign nationals who had previously held a work permit, but later changed their status to "visitor," to continue working legally while waiting for a decision on their new work permit application.
Originally set to expire on February 28, 2025, the policy’s early termination reflects IRCC's efforts to recalibrate the number of temporary residents in Canada and safeguard the integrity of the immigration system. There have been growing concerns that the policy was being exploited by individuals and organizations to mislead foreign nationals into working without proper authorization, undermining the program’s original intent.
IRCC has assured that all applications submitted under this policy before the cutoff date of August 28, 2024, will still be processed. However, this sudden change leaves many visitors and foreign nationals in a state of uncertainty, as they now face stricter regulations when seeking work in Canada.
Broader Immigration Policy Changes: Impact on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
This announcement comes on the heels of another major policy change last week, where Canada decided to stop processing Low-Wage Labour Market Impact Assessments (LMIAs) for the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in several cities. This decision is part of Canada’s broader strategy to balance the labor market and prioritize domestic workers in areas where there is no acute shortage of labor.
Cities affected by this change include Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, where the demand for low-wage positions is being re-evaluated. Employers in these regions will no longer be able to rely on the TFWP to fill low-wage positions, potentially leading to a shift in hiring practices and increased pressure on local labor markets.
What This Means for Employers and Foreign Nationals
For employers and foreign nationals, these changes underscore the importance of staying informed and adapting to Canada’s evolving immigration policies. Businesses that have relied on the TFWP or the now-ended visitor work permit policy will need to explore alternative strategies to meet their labor needs.
Foreign nationals currently in Canada on a visitor visa, or those planning to apply for work permits, must now navigate a more complex and restrictive landscape. Seeking professional immigration advice and exploring other available pathways will be crucial for those affected.
IRCC’s recent actions signal a tightening of Canada’s immigration policies as the country seeks to balance its economic needs with the need to regulate the flow of temporary residents and foreign workers.
Conclusion
The abrupt termination of the temporary policy allowing visitors to apply for work permits from within Canada marks a pivotal change in Canada's immigration landscape. This move underscores the importance of staying informed and agile in response to shifting policies. At Immigrative Visa Services Inc., we are committed to guiding you through these changes with precision and expertise. Whether you are a visitor affected by this policy or an employer navigating the evolving regulations, our team is ready to provide tailored advice and solutions that align with your goals in Canada. Engage in a personalized consultation with our experienced immigration consultants today to explore your options and ensure your plans remain on track in the face of these new developments.
Disclaimer:
This blog post is intended for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized advice regarding your specific immigration situation, it is recommended to consult with an authorized immigration professional.
About the Author:
This blog post is authored by Hossein Alavi, RCIC, a seasoned Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant and the founder and CEO of Immigrative Visa Services Inc. and EduPal Canada. With over ten years of experience in the education and immigration sectors, he is dedicated to assisting individuals and companies with their Canadian immigration needs. Contact Immigrative Visa Services Inc. today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward achieving your Canadian aspirations.
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