CANADA ENDED THE TEMPORARY WORK PERMIT POLICY FOR VISITORS

In a notable shift in its immigration approach, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially ended a temporary policy that had allowed visitors to apply for work permits from within Canada. This policy, which was initially introduced in August 2020, was a direct response to the unprecedented travel disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It aimed to provide a lifeline to those who found themselves stranded in Canada due to international travel restrictions, offering them a chance to work legally while they were unable to return home.

The policy had been scheduled to remain in place until February 2025, giving visitors ample time to transition to a work permit if they met the necessary requirements. However, on August 28, 2024, the IRCC made the unexpected decision to terminate the policy early, several months ahead of its planned expiration. This abrupt cessation has left many potential applicants scrambling to understand the implications for their immigration status and future in Canada.

The IRCC cited several key reasons for the early termination. One of the primary concerns was the need to recalibrate the number of temporary residents in the country. As Canada continues to attract a growing number of international visitors, students, and workers, the government saw the necessity to manage these numbers more effectively to ensure the sustainability of its immigration system. Additionally, maintaining the integrity of the immigration process was another critical factor in the decision. The early end to this policy also aims to protect foreign nationals from being misled or exploited by individuals or organizations offering unauthorized work under false pretenses.

For those who had already submitted applications before the August 28 cutoff date, there is a silver lining. The IRCC has confirmed that these applications will still be processed under the now-ended policy, meaning that those who acted promptly may still have the opportunity to obtain a work permit. However, for new applicants, the window has now closed, and alternative pathways to work authorization in Canada will need to be explored.

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