IRCC Renews Policy Allowing Foreign Workers to Change Employers on Closed Work Permits

Highlights: IRCC Extends Job Mobility Policy for Foreign Workers in Canada

• The temporary public policy has been extended from May 27, 2025, allowing greater job flexibility.
• Eligible applicants must be in Canada with valid temporary resident status and have applied for a new employer-specific work permit.
• Requests must be submitted via the IRCC web form and approved before starting new employment.
• IRCC processes these exemption requests in 10–15 business days.
• Biometrics submission is now mandatory under the updated policy.
   

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Canada Makes It Easier for Foreign Workers to Switch Employers on Closed Permits

Canada has extended its temporary public policy allowing foreign workers on employer-specific (closed) work permits to change employers or occupations without waiting for a new permit to be fully approved. To qualify, applicants must be physically present in Canada, hold valid temporary resident status, and have applied for a new employer-specific work permit.
 

They must also submit an exemption request through the IRCC web form and wait for confirmation before starting new employment. The processing time is typically 10–15 business days, and biometrics are now required as part of the application. The policy remains in effect until further notice.
 

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Who can qualify for the Temporary public policy?

To be eligible for the extended IRCC policy, foreign workers must meet the following criteria:

• Be physically present in Canada at the time of application.
• Hold valid temporary resident status, including maintained (implied) status.
• Have submitted an application for a new employer-specific (closed) work permit.
• Be authorized to work at the time of submitting the new application.
• Intend to work for the new employer or in the new occupation as stated in the job offer.
• Submit an exemption request via the IRCC web form and wait for approval before starting new employment.
   

Note: Applicants must request the exemption through the IRCC web form and wait for confirmation before starting their new job. The policy remains in effect until further notice and can be revoked at any time.
 

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