Temporary worker applications expedited

IMPACT – HIGH

The Canadian government has implemented expedited processing of work permit applications for temporary foreign workers in Canada who have lost their jobs but found alternative employment.

Key Points:

• The temporary policy will significantly reduce the time it take for temporary foreign workers to start new jobs.
• Under the policy, workers already in Canada who have received a new job offer can get approval to start working while their work permit application is processing. They will also be exempt from the requirement to provide biometrics if the Service Canada location where the applicant lives is temporarily closed. This will reduce what can be a 10-week process to 10 days or less.

Analysis & Comments: It is hoped that the temporary policy will help employers in the critical goods and services sectors such as agriculture, food and health care, who urgently need additional employees.

This alert was prepared by de Lint LLP, an independent immigration law firm, allied with Deloitte LLP in Canada.