Canada Ends Visitor-to-Work Permit Policy In a significant shift in immigration policy, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the immediate termination of the temporary public policy that allowed visitors in Canada to apply for work permits without needing to leave the country. This policy change, effective as of August 28, 2024, has caught many by surprise, as the policy was originally set to expire on February 28, 2025. Impact on Visitors Currently in Canada For visitors currently in Canada, this policy change means that applying for a work permit from within the country is no longer an option. Previously, this policy provided much-needed flexibility during the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing visitors to transition to work permits without leaving Canada. The termination of this policy is a clear signal of IRCC’s intent to recalibrate the temporary resident population and maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. Processing of Applications Submitted Before August 28 IRCC has clarified that any applications submitted before August 28, 2024, will still be processed under the now-terminated policy. This offers some relief to those who had already initiated the application process prior to the sudden policy change. Reactions and Implications The abrupt end of this policy is expected to have significant implications for visitors currently in Canada who were considering applying for work permits. It also underscores IRCC’s broader efforts to manage temporary residents and ensure that immigration policies align with Canada’s long-term economic and social goals. As the immigration landscape continues to evolve, those affected by this policy change are encouraged to seek guidance on their options moving forward.