Canada Updates Work Permit Rules for Foreign Workers

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 29, 2025Policy & Government AnnouncementsCanada work permit, employment in Canada, foreign workers, immigration updates, visa sponsorship

The Canadian government has just introduced a game-changing update to its work permit rules that could really benefit foreign workers looking to make a move to Canada. Now, if you’re a foreign worker with a job offer, you can start your new position right away after submitting your work permit application—no more long waits for approval!

This new policy aims to provide greater flexibility for both workers and employers, allowing for quicker job transitions and less time spent in between jobs. According to reports, this change is designed to minimize unemployment periods, enhance career mobility, and improve overall financial stability for temporary workers.

Who Benefits from the New Policy?

The revised rules apply to three main groups of foreign workers:

1. Workers with “Maintained Status”

If your work permit has expired but you’ve already submitted a renewal application, you’re considered as having “maintained status.” Previously, you couldn’t switch employers while waiting for your renewal. Thanks to the new rules, you can now start a new job while your renewal is pending.

2. Holders of Valid Work Permits Seeking New Opportunities

Foreign nationals with valid, employer-specific work permits can transition to a new job immediately after applying for a new work permit. This is particularly helpful if you’ve lost your job or found a better opportunity.

3. Previously Exempt Workers Who Now Need a Permit

Some individuals who didn’t need a work permit before now do, due to changes in their job or employer. They can also start working right away after submitting their new application.

This flexible approach applies to roles under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP). If you have a valid job offer and your application is in, you can hit the ground running without delay.

How to Take Advantage of This New Flexibility

Here’s how you can benefit from these recent changes:

Get a legitimate job offer from a Canadian employer.
Submit a new work permit application linked to that offer.
Start your new job immediately—no waiting for full approval from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Before this update, foreign workers had to sit tight while waiting for their new permit to be approved, which often led to frustrating delays and financial strains. This policy is a significant step towards modernising Canada’s immigration and labour systems, benefiting both workers and employers alike.