Effective December 23, 2024, at 11:59 p.m. ET, significant changes will take place for foreign nationals applying for work permits in Canada.
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The Canadian government has announced that most foreign nationals will no longer be able to apply for a work permit at a port of entry. Instead, all applications for work permits must now be submitted online, whether for an initial permit or an extension.
New Changes:
- Online Applications Only: Foreign nationals must apply for their initial work permit online. And work permit extensions must also be applied for through the online system.
- Loss of Work Privileges for Workers on Maintained Status: If a worker on maintained status (formerly implied status) leaves Canada, they will lose their ability to work upon returning. And workers will need to wait until their work permit application is approved before they can resume working.
Who Can Still Apply at a Port of Entry?
While most foreign nationals are impacted by these changes, exceptions may apply. Specific categories of individuals who can still apply at a port of entry will be detailed in future updates by the Canadian government.
What This Means for Workers:
- If you are currently in Canada and planning to extend your work permit, ensure you submit your application online before your status expires.
- If you need to leave Canada while on maintained status, prepare for a potential work interruption upon re-entry until your application is approved.
Announcement: https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary/apply.html.