Measures to ease on Temporary Foreign Workers

The Government of Canada is temporarily easing rules on work permits for temporary foreign workers.  Effective immediately workers already in Canada who have secured a new job offer can be approved to start a new position even while their application is processed.

“Temporary foreign workers are an integral part of the Canadian workforce and Canada’s COVID-19 response. They are helping us meet urgent labour needs, to ensure our food security and deliver essential goods and services.  Labour Minister Carla Qualtrough said.  Workers must meet the following three conditions:

• Be in Canada with valid status
• Have an employer-specific work permit or have been working under a work permit exemption
• Have submitted an application for a new work permit with a valid job offer under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program

The change is a temporary measure that will cut approval processes to as little as 10 days.  “Immigrants, temporary foreign workers and international students are making considerable contributions to Canada’s response to the unprecedented challenge that COVID-19 poses. We know and value their efforts and sacrifices to keep Canadians healthy and ensure the delivery of critical goods and services,” Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister Marco Mendicino said.  For more information visit the website.