With the recent decision by Canada to stop processing work permit applications for those in the country with visitor status, many may be questioning their remaining options.

Until August 28, individuals in Canada on visitor status could apply for work permits within the country, a temporary measure implemented during the COVID-19 pandemic. This policy was designed to help newcomers stranded due to travel restrictions fill urgent labor shortages while waiting to return home.

However, Canada’s immigration minister, Marc Miller, has reported that the job market has rebounded significantly, with 138% of the pandemic-related job losses recovered and an unemployment rate of 6% as of June 2024. As a result, many of the pandemic-related temporary measures are being phased out. Consequently, obtaining a work permit may now be more challenging for visitors in Canada, though there are still lawful ways to remain in the country.

Visitor Status in Canada

Arriving in Canada as a visitor does not grant you permission to work or study, and you must leave before your visitor record expires. Visitor visas are issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), though not all nationalities require a visa; some may enter Canada with an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Visitor visas are typically valid for ten years and often allow multiple entries.

Visitor Record

Upon arrival, a foreign national may receive a visitor record from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) at the port of entry, though this is not mandatory. This document, separate from your passport, usually permits a stay of up to 183 days, although the border officer might specify an earlier departure date. Your visitor record will indicate the date by which you must leave Canada.

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the expiration of your visitor status, you must apply for an extension before your current status expires. Submit a separate application package to IRCC at least 30 days before your status expires.

If Your Status Has Expired

IRCC states that if your temporary resident status (whether for work permits, visitor visas, or study permits) has expired, you cannot apply for an extension. However, you may apply for a restoration of status within 90 days of expiration. If more than 90 days have passed, you must leave Canada.

Extending Work or Study Permits

Workers or students in Canada can apply to extend their status to continue working or studying. During the processing of your extension application, you will benefit from “maintained status,” allowing you to keep working or studying while IRCC reviews your application. You should keep proof of your permit extension application as evidence of your maintained status.

• ———————————————————————————————————————————–
  We are Leading Canada Immigration Experts from Ahmedabad