Maple News reports that 2024 marked a transformative year for Canada’s LMIA-exempt work permit landscape, with multiple policy changes affecting foreign nationals seeking employment through the International Mobility Program (IMP) and related pathways. These adjustments reflect the government’s evolving approach to economic immigration and labor market needs, excluding the Labor Market Impact Assessment-based Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) stream.
One of the most high-profile changes came into effect on February 29, 2024, as Canada revoked the visa-exempt status for Mexican nationals. Formerly able to enter Canada using only an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), Mexicans must now obtain a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) unless they meet new, stricter eTA criteria. Consequently, Mexican citizens can no longer apply for work permits at Canadian ports of entry.
On March 19, eligibility for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs) was reduced for partners of international students. Spouses of students enrolled in college-level and bachelor’s programs are no longer eligible for these permits, a move aimed at refocusing the program toward higher levels of study.
April saw the creation of a new LMIA-exempt work permit under the IMP specifically for employees of designated companies involved in Canada’s Global Hypergrowth Project. This initiative aims to fast-track talent into high-growth firms that support Canada’s innovation economy.
On August 11, a new policy allowed certain candidates in Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) to obtain open work permits, broadening job flexibility and reducing dependency on employer-specific arrangements. Later that month, on August 28, temporary public policies introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic were rescinded. These had previously allowed foreign nationals with expired visitor status, who held valid job offers, to apply for work permits from within Canada and begin working while their applications were processed.
Other notable changes included updated requirements under the IMP for Intra-Company Transfers (ICT). Effective October 3, eligible applicants must now demonstrate that they work for a multinational corporation and possess specialized knowledge. Meanwhile, the TR to PR public policy was extended on December 17, allowing continued issuance of open work permits for transitional applicants.
On December 23, Canada prohibited “flagpoling,” the practice of crossing the U.S. border and re-entering to request same-day immigration services. With this ban in place, applicants must now process status changes from within the country or through regular immigration channels.
Looking ahead, beginning in 2025, the Canadian government will introduce annual targets for new work permits under the IMP, signaling a more managed and outcome-focused approach. Also in 2025, spousal work permit eligibility will become even more restricted. As of January 21, spouses of students in master’s programs shorter than 16 months and spouses of temporary foreign workers in unapproved occupations will no longer qualify.
Collectively, these policy changes mark a significant shift in Canada’s work permit ecosystem, emphasizing program integrity, economic alignment, and streamlined pathways for high-skilled talent.