On August 24, 2021, a temporary public policy was announced by the Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), to aid visitors with a valid status to apply for an employer-restricted work permit. When launched, the policy targeted visitors who landed in Canada before August 24 to apply for a work permit, However, gradually, the eligibility criteria were broadened to include all visitors, irrespective of their arrival in Canada. The policy has now been extended till February 8, 2022, to combat the acute labour shortage, which has risen manifold due to the ongoing pandemic.
The pandemic has dealt a severe blow to economies worldwide, and Canada is no different. With the current pandemic, Canada’s labor market scarcity has skyrocketed, hitting a record high of 912,600 in the third quarter of 2021, according to the latest Statistics Canada survey. With labor shortages a galore, the country is stringently focused on rejuvenating the economy. This policy marks an important step in the country’s efforts to fill the labor void with in-Canada applicants. Albeit temporary, it comes as a respite to the employers as well as visitors alike. Foreign nationals in Canada stranded due to the pandemic and confronted with status challenges have also been able to set foot in the labor market.
Prior to this temporary policy, a valid temporary resident visa holder, eligible to apply for a work permit, had to leave the country and return only after the issuance of the work permit. If you are one amongst the many visitors, aspiring to work and live in Canada, here is a quick reference guide:
Valid status:
Ensure that you have a valid temporary resident visa or maintained status, while submitting your application for a work permit
Employer-specific work permit:
Submit a completed, employer-restricted work permit application
Stay in Canada:
You will need to ensure that you have a valid status while you continue to live in Canada.
Respect the deadline:
It is imperative that you find an employer and apply on or before February 28, 2022. According to the current deadline, applications submitted after February 28, 2022, will not be considered. The policy also enables foreign nationals with a valid work permit in Canada to apply for interim work authorization. The foreign national should be on a valid status and maintain that status and continue to work for the employer stated on their work permit application.
HR Immigration EDGE:
HR Immigration Inc. is determined to ease this complex procedure for you. Trust us to help you guide through this process with our expertise, authenticity, and unsurmountable experience. Employment-based immigration is our niche, and we take pride in providing quality services to our esteemed clients. So, look no further and book a consultation with us, now!
