Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has abruptly ended a temporary policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits from within Canada. Initially introduced in August 2020 in response to COVID-19 travel restrictions, the policy enabled visitors to stay and work legally without leaving the country. It also permitted former work permit holders who had changed their status to “visitor” to work while waiting for new permit decisions.
Although the policy was originally set to expire on February 28, 2025, IRCC has decided to end it early. This move is part of a broader effort to regulate the number of temporary residents in Canada and maintain the integrity of the immigration system. The decision also aims to prevent misuse of the policy by individuals attempting to work without proper authorization.
Applications submitted under the policy before August 28, 2024, will still be processed.
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