On August 28, 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the End of a temporary public policy that had been in place since August 2020. This policy allowed visitors in Canada to apply for work permits without leaving the country—a significant measure initially introduced in response to COVID-19 travel restrictions.
What Was the Policy About?
During the pandemic, many visitors found themselves unable to leave Canada due to travel restrictions and other barriers. To address this, IRCC introduced a policy allowing those visitors to apply for work permits directly from within Canada, without the need to return to their home countries first. This was a welcomed opportunity for many, especially those who had work experience in Canada or who had held work permits in the past.
Additionally, the policy allowed foreign nationals who had held a work permit within the previous 12 months and who had since changed their status to “visitor” to apply for a new work permit while staying in Canada legally.
Why Is the Policy Ending?
The policy was initially set to expire on February 28, 2025, but IRCC decided to end it sooner, effective immediately. The decision was made to help manage the number of temporary residents in Canada and to ensure the integrity of the country’s immigration system. IRCC noted concerns that some individuals were misusing the policy, misleading foreign nationals into working without proper authorization.
What Does This Mean for Visitors in Canada?
If you are a visitor in Canada and were hoping to apply for a work permit under this policy, you will no longer be able to do so. The option to apply for a work permit from within Canada as a visitor is no longer available. Visitors must now follow the usual channels, which typically involve applying for a work permit from outside Canada.
What About Applications Submitted Before the Policy Ended?
IRCC has confirmed that applications submitted under the policy before August 28, 2024, will still be processed. This means if you applied before the cut-off date, your application will proceed under the rules of the temporary policy.
Looking Forward
The end of this temporary measure marks a shift back to pre-pandemic norms in Canada’s immigration system. Visitors should be aware that work permits cannot be obtained from within Canada unless they follow the standard application procedures applicable to their specific situations.
For those exploring pathways to work or settle in Canada, it’s essential to stay updated on the latest immigration policies and ensure that all applications are made through the correct channels. If you’re unsure of your options, seeking advice from an experienced immigration consultant can help guide you through the process and ensure compliance with Canada’s immigration laws.
Source: Canada.ca