Ford on Asylum Seekers: Waiting for Work Permits in Canada
The discussion around work permits for asylum seekers in Canada has been buzzing lately, particularly following comments from Ontario Premier Doug Ford. He remarked that it takes over two years for asylum seekers to secure the right to work, a claim that the federal government quickly refuted, stating that the average processing time is actually less than two months. Let’s unpack what this means for international job seekers and those considering moving to Canada.
Ford made his remarks during a recent leaders’ summit in Huntsville, Ontario, where provincial leaders explored how they might leverage their constitutional powers to grant work permits, which traditionally fall under federal jurisdiction. Ford expressed concern for the asylum seekers he sees living in nearby hotels, insisting they want to contribute to society but are hindered by slow processing times.
However, officials from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) clarified that since 2022, asylum seekers can apply for work permits while their claims are being processed. This application can be submitted online, and the processing timeframe is typically around 45 days once the claim is deemed eligible by the Immigration Refugee Board. For many, this means the wait for a work permit is much shorter than Ford suggested.
Syed Hussan of the Migrant Workers Alliance for Change noted that while some asylum seekers do receive their permits within 45 days, others may wait longer, citing variability in processing times as an ongoing issue. This inconsistency leaves many feeling uncertain about their situation, which can be particularly stressful for those looking to settle down and start careers in Canada.
For international job seekers interested in opportunities that offer visa sponsorship, it’s essential to understand that the Canadian immigration landscape is actively evolving. The federal government is dedicated to improving processing times to accommodate the growing number of newcomers, especially with Canada welcoming a record number of migrants—over 430,000—last year.
Asylum seekers, while facing unique challenges, are also potential candidates for jobs in various sectors. If you’re an international applicant exploring options to work in Canada, our website, VisaJobsCanada.com, focuses specifically on listing jobs that include visa sponsorship. Each job posting ensures that you can apply for roles that support your immigration journey.
Premier Ford’s comments hint at a broader shift in how provinces might begin to engage with immigration policies. He’s suggested that Ontario could take action on work permits through Section 95 of the Constitution, provided it aligns with federal laws. With no distinct plan on the horizon yet, it underscores a burgeoning dialogue between provincial authorities and federal immigration policies.
For many international job seekers, this evolving landscape can affect how they approach moving to Canada. If you’re passionate about finding work and building a life here, it’s vital to stay updated on immigration policies and understand the pathways available to you. Programs like the Express Entry system can also help skilled workers find pathways to permanent residency (PR) while working in designated occupations.
As the discussions continue, many are hopeful that improvements will be made to streamline immigration processes further, allowing qualified individuals—including asylum seekers—to access job opportunities that align with their skills and experiences.
If you’re thinking about applying for jobs in Canada, remember that the job market is robust and welcoming, especially for skilled workers. By keeping an eye on the latest immigration updates and job opportunities, you can take confident steps towards starting a new life in Canada.
What do you think?
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