The temporary policy that allowed visitors to apply for work permits inside Canada was set to end today on Feb 28, 2023. But, there is a good news for visitors in Canada as IRCC has decided to extend this temporary policy by two years. Now, anyone who has a valid visitors’ status in Canada and have been offered a job in Canada can apply for their work permit without leaving the country until Feb 28, 2025. Many employers in Canada are facing labour shortages in various industries, thus extending this public policy will definitely help Canadian economy and help employers manage labour shortage problem. To be eligible for this temporary public policy, any foreign national must meet the following conditions:

• Should have a valid status in Canada as a visitor on the day they apply for work permit
• Have a job offer supported by a labour market impact assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt job offer
• Should submit an application for an employer-specific work permit no later than Feb 28, 2025
• Meet all other admissibility criteria.

This measure by IRCC will help both the employers and foreign nationals who are in Canada as visitors but looking for employment here so that they can earn Canadian work experience and stay longer in Canada.