Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the immediate end of a temporary policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits from within Canada.
Understanding the Policy
This policy was first introduced in August 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. With travel restrictions in place, many visitors were unable to leave Canada. To support these individuals, IRCC permitted visitors to apply for work permits without needing to exit the country. Also, foreign nationals who had held a work permit in the past 12 months and then switched to “visitor” status could legally work in Canada while awaiting a decision on their new work permit application.
Why the Policy is Ending
Originally set to expire on February 28, 2025, IRCC has decided to end the policy earlier. This decision aligns with a broader strategy to manage the number of temporary residents in Canada and to safeguard the immigration system’s integrity. IRCC highlighted concerns that some individuals were misusing the policy to exploit foreign nationals, leading to unauthorized work in Canada.
What Visitors Need to Know
If you submitted your application before August 28, 2024, IRCC will process it under the old policy. However, new applicants are no longer eligible to apply for work permits from within Canada.
Impact on the African Diaspora
This change is particularly important for members of the African diaspora who may have been depending on this temporary measure to obtain work permits. It’s vital to stay updated on these changes and be aware of the new requirements for securing work permits in Canada.
What’s Next?
With the end of this policy, visitors and prospective immigrants must seek accurate, up-to-date information. Avoid misleading advice and consult official IRCC resources or trusted immigration consultants to navigate Canada’s complex immigration system.
