Canada Ends Policy Allowing Visitor Visa Holders to Apply for Work Permits

Canada has ended a temporary policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits within the country. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the decision, stating the policy, which was set to expire on February 28, 2025, is being ended as part of efforts to manage temporary residents and maintain the integrity of the immigration system. IRCC also acknowledged that some individuals were exploiting the policy for unauthorized work, leading to concerns about misrepresentation. The policy, introduced in August 2020, aimed to assist visitors who were unable to return home due to pandemic-related border closures. It allowed them to apply for work permits without leaving Canada, providing temporary relief during a period of uncertainty.