Canada Ends Temporary Policy Allowing Visitors to Apply for Work Permits from Within the Country
Ottawa, August 28, 2024— The Canadian government has stopped a temporary policy that allowed visitors in Canada to apply for a work permit without leaving the country. This change is effective immediately.
This policy was first introduced in August 2020 by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as a response to the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, many visitors were unable to leave Canada due to travel restrictions, so the government allowed them to apply for work permits while staying in the country.
The policy also helped those who had previously held a work permit and later changed their status to “visitor.” These individuals were allowed to work legally in Canada while waiting for a decision on their new work permit application.
Reasons for This Early Termination
Although this Visitor to work permit policy was originally supposed to last until February 28, 2025, the IRCC has decided to end it sooner.
The reason for this decision is to manage the number of temporary residents in Canada and to protect the integrity of the immigration system.
The IRCC also found that some people were misusing the policy to make foreign nationals work in Canada without proper authorization.
Who Will Be Affected by This Recent Change?
Visitors in Canada who receive job offers will no longer be able to apply for work permits online from within the country due the termination of this visitor to work permit policy.
However, the IRCC will continue to process applications that were submitted before August 28, 2024, under the previous policy.
Conclusion
Canada has ended the temporary policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits from within the country, effective August 28, 2024.
If you are a visitor and have received a job offer or a positive LMIA from a Canadian employer who genuinely needs a worker, you can leave the country and apply for a work permit at the port of entry.
