Canada Extends Work Permit Application Option for Visitors Until February 2025
Zia Waseer
Waseer Law Office
On February 28, 2023, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that it is extending its public policy until February 28, 2025, allowing certain visitorsin Canada to apply for a work permit. The policy, which was initially implemented as a temporary measure due to the COVID-19 pandemic in August 2020, has been extended for the second time. The goal of this policy is to enable eligible foreign nationals with temporary resident status in Canada to apply inland for an employer-specific work permit and work while their application is being processed. The decision to extend the public policy was made in light of Canada’s plans to bring in a significant number of immigrants to address labor shortages throughout the country. It is projected that 100% of the growth in Canada’s labor force will come from immigration, making this policy critical for Canada’s economic growth. This extension allows individuals with existing employment in Canada to continue contributing to the Canadian economy while building their life in Canada.
Who can apply?
According to IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)A temporary public policy has been issued to allow certain temporary residents to apply for a work permit from within Canada. While all temporary residents can apply for an employer-specific work permit under the public policy, only those who held a work permit in the last 12 months may request interim authorization to work.
Eligibility Criteria for Visitors to Apply for an Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Must have valid temporary resident status as a visitor in Canada
- Must have maintained status, including status extensions under subsection 183(5) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR)
- Must have submitted an employer-specific work permit application using the Application to Change Conditions, Extend my Stay or Remain in Canada as a Worker
- Must have remained in Canada with status since application submission and intends to stay in Canada throughout the processing period of their work permit application
- Must have submitted the application on or before February 28, 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for Visitors to Apply for an Employer-Specific Work Permit
In addition to meeting the eligibility criteria for the work permit, a former work permit holder who converted to visitor status may also be eligible for interim authorization to work if they meet all the following:
- have valid temporary resident status at the time of work permit application submission
- held a valid work permit in the 12 months preceding the date on which they submitted their application for a work permit under this public policy, even though they are now only a visitor
- intend to work for the employer and occupation specified by the LMIA or LMIA-exempt offer of employment included in their work permit application submitted under the public policy
- have applied to IRCC for the interim authorization to work as per this public policy using the IRCC Web form
- have requested that the authorization to work be applicable until a decision is made on their work permit application
- will remain in Canada throughout the period during which their work permit application is being processed
These are some of the eligibility requirements for foreign nationals who wish to apply for an employer-specific work permit while in Canada on temporary resident status as a visitor. However, it is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list and there may be additional criteria that an applicant must meet in order to be eligible for the work permit.
It is also essential to read and understand all the relevant policies, procedures, and eligibility requirements before applying for a work permit. Failure to meet any of the requirements could result in the application being rejected or delayed, which may cause significant inconvenience and potential legal issues for the applicant. Therefore, it is crucial to carefully review all the information and consult with immigration experts if needed to ensure that all the requirements are met before submitting an application.
Our team is available to offer support and answer any questions you may have regarding your eligibility. You have the option to book an appointment with us or reach out to us for further assistance.
Recommended Articles
0 Comments