published on 6 June 2025 @ 10:24 am · COMMENT

Temporary Public Policy Streamlines Job Changes for Foreign Workers Already in Canada

Canada recognizes the vital role that temporary foreign workers play in supporting the national economy across all sectors. However, the realities of employment are often unpredictable and circumstances such as layoffs, changes in job responsibilities, workplace conflict, or better professional opportunities can arise. When this happens, foreign workers may find themselves needing to transition to a new role or employer.

Under existing rules, temporary foreign workers must apply for and wait for approval of a new work permit before beginning their new job. This often results in weeks of lost income for workers and delays for employers urgently seeking to fill positions.

To address this issue, the Government of Canada has introduced a temporary public policy that allows foreign workers who are already in Canada and who have secured a new job offer under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program or the International Mobility Program to begin working in their new position while their work permit application is still being processed.

This change is also consistent with Canada’s broader policy goal of reducing the intake of new temporary workers by making better use of the experienced, skilled talent already present in the country. The update aims to provide a more flexible, responsive, and efficient process for employers and foreign workers alike.

This public policy is designed to support a range of foreign workers, including those who are on maintained status and authorized to work while their work permit renewal is being processed, but who remain tied to the conditions of their expired permit; those who hold a valid employer-specific work permit and are restricted to a named employer but now need to change jobs; and those who were exempt from requiring a work permit in their current role but need one for a new occupation or employer. These individuals will now be able to begin working in their new role while awaiting the outcome of their work permit application.

By allowing qualified foreign nationals to start their new employment without delay, this temporary measure helps protect workers’ livelihoods, reduce administrative backlogs, and support the timely hiring needs of Canadian employers.

filed under: IMMIGRATIONPERMANENT RESIDENCE