Ontario Grants Work Permits, Bypassing Federal Approval

By Visa Jobs CanadaJuly 26, 2025Policy & Government AnnouncementsCanadian immigration, federal government, Ontario economic policy, Ontario work permits, visa sponsorship

Ontario’s New Approach to Work Permits: What It Means for You

In a recent announcement, Ontario Premier Doug Ford revealed plans to issue work permits directly to asylum seekers, cutting out the federal government’s involvement. This decision is rooted in a clause from the Constitution which empowers provinces to make certain immigration decisions, specifically referenced by Alberta Premier Danielle Smith during a national leaders’ summit.

Understanding the Context

With over 90,000 asylum claims made in Ontario last year alone, many individuals are eager to work but are stuck waiting for federal processing times, which can exceed two years. Ford emphasized the frustration of these asylum seekers, describing them as healthy and hardworking individuals who want to contribute to society and gain independence.

By bypassing federal requirements, Ford aims to address the immediate needs of those seeking employment, highlighting an urgent need for streamlined processes within Canada’s immigration framework. This decision poses important questions about the balance of power between provincial and federal authorities in immigration matters.

What Are the Implications for Work Permits in Canada?

This change could have several implications for international job seekers considering a move to Canada. Here’s how it connects to broader immigration pathways:

Work Permits in Canada: Under normal circumstances, if you want to work in Canada, you typically need a job offer and a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker against local economic needs. However, the Ontario initiative may open new avenues, especially for asylum seekers who may not fit into the traditional employment framework.
Visa Sponsorship Opportunities: If you’re exploring job opportunities from overseas, you’ll find that every listing on our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, includes visa support. As Ontario’s approach evolves, there may be increased demand for workers across various sectors, potentially leading to more visa sponsorship opportunities.
Permanent Residency Pathways: For many, obtaining a work permit can be the first step toward permanent residency (PR). Canada has several programs, like the Express Entry system and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allow skilled workers to gain PR based on both their work experience and the demand for their skills.
Changes in the Labour Market: As Ontario looks to address labour shortages by providing quicker access to work permits for asylum seekers, it may boost the overall economy. This increased workforce can also lead to more job creation and, in turn, more opportunities for international applicants.

What Should You Expect Moving Forward?

While specifics on the timeline for implementing these work permits have yet to be defined, it’s apparent that Ontario is taking steps to facilitate a more proactive approach to work immigration. Ford’s government believes that allowing asylum seekers to work will not only help them but will also alleviate pressure on the welfare system.

This represents a shift in how provinces may operate independently regarding immigration—a topic that is likely to continue to evolve in Canadian policy discussions.

Getting Ready for Your Move to Canada

If you’re considering relocating to Canada for work, now might be a great time to begin researching job opportunities. You can explore various sectors to find roles that suit your skills. Our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, is dedicated to helping international job seekers find Canadian jobs that come with visa sponsorship, making your journey to Canada smoother.