Canada Ends Policy Allowing Visitors to Apply for Work Permits from Inside Canada

Canada Ends Policy Allowing Visitors to Apply for Work Permits from Inside Canada

In a significant policy shift, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has abruptly ended the temporary public policy that allowed certain visitors in Canada to apply for work permits from within the country. 

Originally introduced in August 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic, this policy provided a crucial pathway for many foreign nationals to transition from visitor to worker status without leaving Canada. Under this policy, visitors could apply for a work permit without departing the country, and those who had held a work permit within the previous 12 months but changed their status to “visitor” could legally work while awaiting a decision on their new work permit application.

The temporary policy, originally slated to end on February 28, 2025, ended abruptly on August 28, 2024, in a bid on the part of IRCC to recalibrate the number of temporary residents to the ration of permanent residents in Canada.  

Reasons for the Policy’s Early Termination

The early termination of the policy reflects broader efforts to manage the growing number of temporary residents and maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. Recent data shows a significant rise in temporary foreign workers and international students, with over 800,000 international students and more than 400,000 temporary foreign workers in Canada as of 2023. This substantial increase has raised concerns about the country’s ability to handle these numbers, particularly in terms of housing, social services, and labour market integration.

Additionally, the policy’s early end addresses concerns about exploitation. IRCC identified instances where some bad actors were using the policy to mislead foreign nationals into working in Canada without authorization.

By ending the policy, IRCC aims to close this loophole and ensure that all individuals remain in Canada through regulated and legitimate channels.

Impact on Visitors and Alternatives

The sudden termination of this policy is expected to have a significant impact on visitors currently in Canada who were planning to apply for work permits. Applications submitted before August 28, 2024, will still be processed under the previous policy, but those who missed the deadline will need to explore alternative pathways if they wish to work in Canada.

For visitors who intend to apply for work permits under the now-defunct policy, there are still several alternative options available:

• Applying for a Work Permit from Outside Canada: Visitors can leave Canada and apply for a work permit from their home country or another country where they have legal status. This typically requires securing a job offer from a Canadian employer and, in most cases, obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): Some provinces offer immigration programs that allow temporary residents to apply for permanent residency and, in certain cases, work permits. Exploring these options might provide a viable pathway.
• International Mobility Program (IMP): This program allows certain foreign nationals to work in Canada without an LMIA, with specific eligibility criteria.
• Studying in Canada: Enrolling in a Canadian educational institution could provide a pathway to a study permit, which may include work authorization.

What’s Next for Canada’s Immigration Policy?

As Canada continues to navigate the complexities of post-pandemic immigration, the end of this policy is a clear indication that the government is focused on maintaining a robust and regulated system. With many other changes announced, immigration has become a key topic of conversation among Canadians this year. 

Need Help Navigating Canada’s New Immigration Policies?

If you’re currently in Canada on a visitor visa or planning to visit and are concerned about how these changes could impact your work opportunities, we’re here to help. Schedule a personalized one-on-one consultation with one of our immigration consultants to navigate this transition smoothly.

Our team will assess your situation, guide you through alternative immigration pathways, and ensure you comply with the new regulations. Contact us today to book your consultation and secure your path to success in Canada.

The Team at Northern Connections Canada