The Canadian government has announced a new temporary public policy that significantly simplifies the process for foreign workers changing jobs in Canada. Effective 12 weeks after March 4, 2025, the policy allows eligible temporary foreign workers to begin working in a new role or for a new employer before their new work permit application is fully processed.
Why This Policy Matters
This update addresses one of the most common challenges faced by temporary foreign workers: the delay in starting a new job due to lengthy work permit processing times. These delays often create employment gaps, financial instability, and frustration for both workers and employers.
By removing certain regulatory barriers, this new policy aims to:
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Reduce downtime for skilled workers transitioning between jobs
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Help Canadian employers fill urgent roles more quickly
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Improve retention and integration of skilled temporary labor already in Canada
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Support economic stability in high-need sectors
Who Benefits from the Policy?
The policy primarily targets three categories of foreign nationals:
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Workers on maintained status: Those who submitted a work permit renewal and are authorized to stay in Canada, but are still bound to their old employer.
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Workers with restricted permits: Those with valid work permits tied to a specific employer or job but who need to change due to layoffs or better opportunities.
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Permit-exempt workers: Individuals who didn’t previously need a permit but now do, due to a change in occupation or employer.
Key Eligibility Requirements
To benefit from this exemption, foreign nationals must:
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Be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status
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Have submitted a new or renewal work permit application under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or International Mobility Program (IMP)
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Intend to work for a new employer or in a new occupation
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Apply through the official electronic request process outlined by IRCC
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Request that the exemption apply until a final decision is made on their permit application
What Is Being Exempted?
Eligible foreign nationals will temporarily be exempt from the following:
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Paragraph 183(1)(b) – The condition not to work unless authorized
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Subparagraphs 185(1)(b)(i) to (iv) – Restrictions on employer, type of work, and work schedule
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Section 196 – The requirement to have a valid work permit before starting a new job
These exemptions are valid until IRCC makes a final decision on the new work permit application.
Replaces the COVID-19 Policy
This new public policy replaces the emergency measures first introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. It reflects the government’s continued focus on labor market flexibility and a more efficient use of foreign workers already in Canada, rather than increasing new arrivals.
Conclusion
At Visaserve Immigration Law P.C., we welcome this policy as a progressive step toward streamlining Canada’s immigration and labor systems. If you’re a temporary foreign worker considering a job change, or an employer looking to onboard skilled talent already in Canada, this update could significantly accelerate the hiring process.
Need Help?
Our team is here to help you determine eligibility, apply for exemptions, and ensure compliance with all other IRCC requirements. Contact Visaserve Immigration Law P.C. for a consultation today.
