As of February 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially ended the temporary policy allowing visitors to apply for a work permit without leaving the country. Originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, this policy helped Canadian employers fill labour shortages while travel restrictions limited the arrival of new workers.
For several years, this measure gave visitors in Canada a pathway to transition to work permits if they received a valid job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer. However, with its expiration, visitors who want to work in Canada must now apply for a work permit outside the country unless they qualify under specific exemptions.
This change is expected to impact many foreign nationals who were hoping to secure work while already in Canada. Employers who have relied on hiring workers already inside the country may need to revisit their recruitment strategies. With LMIA processing times still unpredictable, businesses should plan and ensure they follow the correct application channels.
For workers, this means exploring alternative pathways, such as employer-specific work permits through LMIA-supported applications or other temporary residence programs. If you're currently in Canada as a visitor and are considering applying for a work permit, it’s crucial to review your options with an immigration professional to avoid status issues.
If you need further assistance, do not hesitate to contact Immigration Station Canada. We offer professional immigration advice to help you through every step of the process.
Immigration Station Canada will work with you and guide you through the best process to achieve your goals, wherever they lead!
About Us
Immigration Station Canada is a dedicated, professional Canadian Immigration firm practicing out of Northumberland County, just east of Toronto, Canada. We serve clients from Kingston, Belleville, Brighton, Cobourg, Oshawa, the GTA, Guelph, Milton, Stratford, St. Catharines, and around the world. Our Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, Anne C. McCaughey (Annie) is an experienced immigration services provider and a fifth-generation Canadian who values the immigration process and the unique individuals who immigrate to Canada to become part of the fabric of this wonderful country. If you would like to submit a question to Ask Annie, use the contact form.
How Can We Help? We do work permits, study permits, visitor visas, Express Entry, spousal sponsorship, family class sponsorship, and Canadian citizenship with expertise in Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) applications and Global Talent Stream applications. Please contact us if you would like assistance with your immigration application or to book an appointment.
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