COVID-19 update – applying for a work permit without having to exit Canada – visitor Status
The Government of Canada announced on August 24, 2020, that foreign nationals who are in Canada as visitors and who have a valid job offer will be able to apply for a closed work permit (employer-specific) without having to leave Canada.
When can I apply for a work permit without having to exit Canada
This temporary policy change takes effect as of August 24, 2020, and is intended to benefit employers in Canada who have had difficulty filling positions, as well as temporary residents who would like to work in Canada during COVID-19
Eligibility to be able to apply for a work permit without having to exit Canada
To be eligible, an applicant looking to benefit from this temporary public policy must
- have valid status in Canada as a visitor on August 24, 2020 and remain in Canada
- have a job offer
- apply for an employer-specific work permit that is supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment, no later than March 31, 2021
- meet all other standard admissibility criteria
This temporary public policy also provides the opportunity for applicants who meet these criteria and who had a valid work permit in the past 12 months to begin working for their new employer before their work permit application has been fully approved.
This is a welcome change for individuals who are in Canada and who are by law required to exit Canada to apply for a work permit.
For more information visit IRCC’s News Release.