Canada Updates ‘Maintained Status’ Rules for Temporary Visa Holders
Understanding Canada’s Maintained Status for Temporary Residents
If you’re considering a move to Canada and are exploring job opportunities, it’s vital to understand the current immigration rules, especially around maintained status for temporary residents. This term refers to the legal right to stay in Canada while your application for an extension of your permit is being processed. However, recent updates have changed how this system works, which could affect you if you’re in the process of securing visa sponsorship.
What’s New with Maintained Status?
As of May 28, 2025, new regulations updated by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) alter the way maintained status is viewed when you submit multiple extension applications. Previously, if you submitted a second application for a permit extension after your first was refused, you could still stay in Canada under maintained status. Now, however, if the first application gets refused and you file a second one, you will no longer remain in status. This change means that if your second application is also rejected, you may need to reapply for restoration to get back into good standing.
Maintained status allows you to work or study in Canada under the conditions of your expired permit, as long as you’ve applied for an extension before your permit expires. With the recent updates, it’s more crucial than ever to ensure your applications are handled correctly to avoid any lapse in your legal status.
How Do These Changes Relate to Job Opportunities?
Understanding these rules is essential if you’re seeking job opportunities in Canada. Many employers are willing to provide visa sponsorship, which can be a pathway to permanent residency. If you feel uncertain about your status while job hunting, it might limit your options.
Additionally, searching for jobs can be streamlined through resources like VisaJobsCanada.com. Unlike general job platforms, this site specifically caters to international job seekers by listing positions with guaranteed visa sponsorship.
This can take some stress out of the process, allowing you to focus on finding a role that aligns with your skills while ensuring that the employer is aware of and prepared for the visa needs.
Exploring Permanent Residency Opportunities
If you plan to make Canada your long-term home, research options such as the Express Entry system, designed for skilled workers aiming for permanent residency (PR). The system considers various factors, including your work experience, education, and language proficiency. Understanding your eligibility for programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can also enhance your chances.
In today’s competitive job market, having the correct information and support can make all the difference in your journey to working and living in Canada.
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