Maple News reports that international visitors currently in Canada with a valid job offer are now eligible to apply for a work permit without having to exit and re-enter the country — a significant shift in immigration policy that took effect on August 24.
Under the new temporary measure announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), eligible visitors — including Super Visa holders, business visitors, and individuals entering under the Global Skills Strategy — can now remain in Canada while transitioning to a work permit, provided they meet the specified criteria. Notably, this policy only applies to those who were already in Canada on visitor status as of August 24. New arrivals after this date are not eligible.
Previously, temporary residents with visitor status were required to leave Canada once their work permit was approved in order to activate it. This often meant costly travel and delays for both applicants and employers. By eliminating this step, the new policy streamlines the transition into the Canadian workforce.
Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino stated that the policy aims to support Canadian employers facing persistent labour shortages, especially those exacerbated during and after the peak of the pandemic. “This exemption from the normal temporary work permit requirements is aimed at removing barriers to create a more agile workforce that leverages visitors with the skills and experience to accelerate our economic recovery,” Mendicino said.
For Canadian businesses, this change makes it easier to pivot quickly and fill crucial roles with individuals already in the country. It also creates a more flexible and responsive immigration framework that aligns with Canada’s economic needs.
The measure is expected to benefit a range of industries, particularly those that rely heavily on international talent to address skill shortages.
Maple News will continue to monitor developments related to this policy to keep foreign workers and Canadian employers informed of their options and responsibilities.