What’s Changing with Temporary Work Permits in Canada: What You Need to Know

Till Klarholz
Mar 28
4 min read

As Canada continues to navigate the evolving global landscape, temporary work permits remain a vital immigration pathway for individuals seeking to work in Canada on a short-term basis. Whether you're an international worker looking to gain experience in Canada or an employer trying to fill labor shortages, understanding the latest changes and updates to Canada’s temporary work permit system is essential.

At Fouad Legal, we’re here to provide you with the latest information to ensure you’re fully prepared for any shifts in policy that could impact your ability to work in Canada. In this post, we’ll explore the recent changes to temporary work permits and what you need to know to navigate the application process successfully.

What Are Temporary Work Permits?

Temporary work permits allow foreign nationals to work in Canada for a limited time, typically in specific jobs or industries. There are several types of work permits available, including employer-specific permits and open work permits, each with its own eligibility requirements.

Temporary work permits play a key role in filling labor gaps in Canada, supporting businesses, and contributing to the economy. They’re essential for workers from abroad who wish to gain Canadian experience, participate in specific projects, or temporarily fill vacancies in various sectors.

What’s Changing with Temporary Work Permits in Canada?

Recent policy changes have impacted temporary work permits, and understanding these changes is critical for anyone looking to work in Canada. Below are some of the key updates:

1. Post-Pandemic Changes: Streamlined Processing and Flexibility

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Canada introduced several temporary measures to expedite work permit processing. While some of these measures are still in place, others are transitioning into permanent reforms.

Work Permit Processing Times: The pandemic caused significant delays in work permit applications. However, Canada is now focusing on improving processing times, which have been gradually reducing over the past year. In many cases, individuals can expect faster processing of their applications.

2. Work Permit Eligibility for International Students

International students who have completed their studies in Canada and want to stay and work can apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP). While the basic eligibility for PGWPs hasn’t changed, there have been some significant shifts:

Expanded PGWP Validity: The validity of PGWPs has been extended for certain students, depending on their program of study. This is especially beneficial for those who were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and unable to complete their studies in the traditional in-person format.
Easier Pathway to Permanent Residency: The Canadian government has expressed a focus on retaining international students, as many are seen as strong candidates for permanent residency. Having Canadian work experience can improve the likelihood of obtaining permanent residency through programs like Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

3. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Changes

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) allows employers to hire foreign workers when qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents are unavailable. Recent changes have impacted employers and workers in the following ways:

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Exemptions: In some cases, employers no longer need to submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for certain high-demand positions. For example, workers in sectors like healthcare or technology may find it easier to apply for a temporary work permit.
Transitioning from Temporary to Permanent Status: Canada is increasingly focused on making it easier for temporary foreign workers to transition to permanent residency. Workers who have gained valuable Canadian work experience may be able to apply for permanent status through programs like Express Entry or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).

4. Changes to Open Work Permits

Open work permits allow foreign nationals to work for any employer in Canada, without being tied to a specific job or location. These permits have become increasingly available in various scenarios, such as:

Spouse or Common-Law Partner Work Permits: If your spouse or common-law partner has been approved for a study or work permit in Canada, you may be eligible for an open work permit. Recent policy updates have expanded these opportunities for families to stay together and contribute to the Canadian workforce.
Post-Graduation Work Permits for International Students: As part of Canada’s efforts to retain skilled talent, international students who graduate from eligible Canadian institutions can apply for an open work permit. This temporary work permit allows graduates to seek employment while gaining Canadian work experience.

5. Employer-Specific Work Permits and Labor Shortages

Canada’s labor market has been experiencing significant shortages in certain industries, including healthcare, construction, and agriculture. The government has been working to streamline the process for employers to hire temporary foreign workers to address these shortages.

Work Permit Extensions: To mitigate the impact of labor shortages, some workers may find it easier to extend their work permits without the need for a new LMIA. This is especially true for workers in essential industries.
Sector-Specific Initiatives: There may also be specific initiatives designed to make it easier for workers in certain sectors, such as agriculture and hospitality, to secure work permits and extend their stay in Canada.

How Fouad Legal Can Help You Navigate Temporary Work Permits

With all of these changes to Canada’s temporary work permit system, it can be challenging to keep up with the latest updates and requirements. At Fouad Legal, we are here to help you navigate the complexities of temporary work permits and ensure you’re fully prepared to succeed in the application process.

Here’s how Fouad Legal can assist you:

Expert Advice on Eligibility: We can help you determine whether you qualify for a temporary work permit based on your qualifications, job offer, and specific circumstances.
Application Support: Our team will guide you through the process of gathering the necessary documentation, filling out forms accurately, and submitting your application.
Transition to Permanent Residency: If your goal is to transition from temporary work to permanent residency, we can help you explore pathways like the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
Employer Support: If you’re an employer seeking to hire temporary foreign workers, we can assist you with LMIA applications, employer-specific permits, and compliance with Canada’s immigration laws.

Get Started Today

Temporary work permits offer exciting opportunities for individuals looking to gain experience in Canada, but it’s essential to stay informed about the latest changes. If you’re considering applying for a work permit or need help understanding the changes to Canada’s immigration policies, contact Fouad Legal today for expert guidance and support.