The temporary policy extended for 2 years, allowing visitors to apply for work permits from within Canada
The Canadian government has extended a temporary public policy for foreign nationals visiting Canada to apply for and receive work permits without the need to leave the country. The extension of this policy is for two years, until February 28, 2025, in response to significant labour shortages experienced by employers during this time of economic growth.
Previously, foreign nationals had to apply for their initial work permit before coming to Canada. Those already in Canada with visitor status would have to leave the country to obtain their work permit. This temporary policy change allows visitors to apply for a work permit from within Canada, removing the need to leave the country.
To be eligible, the applicant must have valid visitor status in Canada, a job offer supported by a labour market impact assessment or LMIA-exempt offer of employment, submit an application for an employer-specific work permit no later than February 28, 2025, and meet all other standard admissibility criteria.
Furthermore, applicants who have held a valid work permit in the past 12 months can request interim work authorization to start working for their new employer while their work permit application is being processed.
This policy extension enables employers to consider visitors as a viable option for filling labour shortages in Canada and provides greater flexibility for a foreign nation.
