Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has announced that visitors in Canada who hold valid status and have valid job offers are now allowed to apply for work permits within Canada. They don’t have to exit the country to do so.
This temporary public policy is part of the COVID-19 measures put in place to help Canadian employers fill positions during the pandemic as they experience challenges in recruiting and hiring workers.
Additionally, this policy will also be beneficial for temporary residents who could not return to their home countries because of lockdowns. The pandemic has caused chaotic international flight cancellations making it difficult for visitors to exit Canada. This policy is highly beneficial for those who came to Canada to conduct exploratory visits; and those who have found employers during their visit.
Eligibility to apply for work permits
To be eligible for this temporary public policy, visitors must meet the following critiria:
- Must have valid status as a visitor. (If your status has expired since August 24, you have to restore your visitor status before applying for a work permit).
- Must be physically present in Canada as of August 24, 2020 and have remained in Canada. (Visitors who left Canada after August 24, 2020 are not eligible to apply under this policy if they return to Canada).
- Have a job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment, no later than March 31, 2021
- Must have held a work permit that was valid in the last 12 months before applying for a new one. (You can request interim authorization to work while your permit is being processed).
- Must be admissible to Canada
Supervisa holders, business visitors and visitors who entered Canada under the Global Skills Strategy work permit exemption may apply for work permits under this policy if they meet all eligibility criteria, according to IRCC.
Before the issuance of this temporary public policy visitors in Canada who get approved work permits have to leave Canada and return before the permits are issued to them. Applicants usually apply for their initial work permits before entering Canada.
