Canada is ending the visitor-to-work permit policy as of August 2024, impacting how visitors transition to workers. Learn how this change affects future immigrants, explore New Brunswick's recent immigration pause, and get inspired by Geraldine Heaney's sports success.
1. Top Story: Canada Ends Visitor-to-Work Permit Policy Effective August 2024
Canada is closing the door on a key pandemic-era policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits without leaving the country. Discover how this change impacts future immigrants and what alternatives are available for those wanting to work in Canada.
Key Takeaways
- Visitors must now apply for work permits from outside Canada starting August 28, 2024.
- Several alternative pathways to work in Canada remain available for eligible applicants.
- Understanding these changes is crucial for future immigrants planning their journey to Canada.
New Rules for Visitors: What You Need to Know
As of August 28, 2024, the temporary policy allowing visitors to apply for work permits from within Canada will be terminated. Introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic to help address labor shortages, this policy provided a quick route for visitors to enter the Canadian workforce.
With the reinstatement of pre-pandemic immigration rules, visitors must now exit Canada to apply for a work permit. This shift affects those who intended to change their status from visitor to worker without leaving the country, making it vital to understand these new regulations.
Similar to the national policy shift, Quebec has also recently halted its worker program to manage high demand, reflecting broader economic and social impacts across Canada.
Alternative Work Permit Options to Consider
Although the policy change limits in-country applications, several pathways remain for those seeking to work in Canada:
- Apply from Outside Canada: Potential workers need to complete the application process before arriving in Canada.
- International Mobility Program (IMP): Offers a route for eligible foreign workers to secure work permits without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Requires an LMIA but provides a viable option for many applicants and employers.
Each immigration pathway has specific requirements and processes, so it's crucial to understand which option best suits your situation. We encourage you to ask questions to Aïa, our trusted immigration assistant, to explore the most suitable options for your journey.
Broader Impact: Economic and Social Effects
Ending the visitor-to-work permit policy could worsen labor shortages in sectors like healthcare and hospitality that rely on foreign workers. This change may deter some immigrants seeking quick entry into the workforce, affecting Canada's ability to attract a diverse talent pool.
What this means for immigrants
For immigrants, these changes mean securing the correct permits before arriving in Canada, as on-site status changes are no longer possible. Understanding the available immigration pathways is essential for a smooth entry and successful integration into the Canadian workforce.
2. New Brunswick’s Focus: Immigration Suspension Amid High Demand
New Brunswick temporarily suspends new immigration nominations to manage a surge in applications. This pause aims to address the backlog and allocate resources efficiently, reflecting the province's strategic approach to maintaining a balanced and effective immigration system.
- New Brunswick pauses new immigration nominations due to high demand.
- The suspension allows the province to clear the backlog efficiently.
- Current applicants remain unaffected; only new nominations are halted
3. Success Snapshot: Geraldine Heaney, From Immigrant to Hockey Hall of Fame Legend
Geraldine Heaney, an Irish immigrant to Canada, became one of the most celebrated figures in women’s hockey. As part of Team Canada, she won Olympic gold in 2002 and silver in 1998, inspiring countless athletes. Her induction into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2013 highlights the profound contributions immigrants make in sports and beyond, showing the heights that can be reached through perseverance and dedication.
