Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended a temporary public policy, originally introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic, that allows foreign nationals with closed (employer-specific) work permits to change employers or occupations without waiting for a new work permit. This extension, effective May 27, 2025, offers continued flexibility for workers and employers alike. What Is the Policy? Under this policy, foreign workers holding closed work permits can seek authorization from IRCC to start working for a new employer or in a different occupation before obtaining a new work permit. Typically, a closed work permit restricts a foreign national to the specific employer and occupation listed on the permit. Changing jobs or roles would otherwise require a new work permit, which can involve delays. This policy streamlines the process, enabling workers to transition more quickly. Who Qualifies for the Exemption? To be eligible for this exemption, foreign nationals must meet the following criteria: Be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status (including maintained status). Have submitted an application for a new work permit or work permit extension. Be authorized to work in Canada at the time of their application. Intend to work for a new employer or in a new occupation as specified in a job offer. Applicants must formally request this exemption from IRCC and wait for confirmation before starting their new job. IRCC typically processes these requests within 10-15 days, after which successful applicants receive email confirmation. The new policy has no end date. It will operate until the Minister announces its revocation. Back to all posts Share this post:
Param Tooray Me and my wife turned to Borders Law Firm when I was trying to migrate to Canada as I am a UK citizen and my wife was born in Canada. They made the process really easy for us guiding us all the way. I am now a permanent resident in Canada thanks to Jenny and Devika. We would definitely recommend this firm to anyone looking to move to Canada you will not be disappointed!!
Neha K Borders Law firm - Devika OMG where do I start from.... so I got her number from my CA who I have been getting my taxes filed from last ten years. I was not sure what will happen to my mom's files becuase I had already tried four times before and everytime there was something or the other that happened and my application was not accepted... Devika has been my good luck, an angel in my life and a miracle believe it or not. I wish I could give you the details about why it was so so so important for my mom to get this immigration but unfortunately I can't share my personal details but I can tell you all one thing, that Devika and her team not only helped me with my mom's immigration case but also helped me with her super visa extension and all other obstacles we faced. I had no idea that my file can get approved so fast. Today I feel like my dream of having my mom here permanently came true all because of Devika.She is very knowledgeable, super patient, went out of her way to do, spent extra hours assisting me and completing this file. Always understood and heard my issues, with patience. I don't know how many times I cried with her and she always gave me hope and strength to be patient and wait for the approval. Honestly I am very impressed how she adds human touch to her immigration cases and treats the families with so much love and always been very professional as well. Devika is the best, she has an awesome awesome team. I can go on and on and on about her. I always suggest my friends her name and tell them about her services.It feels so good when I give her number to people in need of a good immigration lawyer, because in my heart I know that Devika will be able to help them with their immigration very well.She is the best Thank you Devika for being a great lawyer,a great human being and an angel in my life. Himanshi (Mansi)
Victor Hernandez Andres and his team at Borders Law Firm really impressed everyone at Siller Helicopters. We came to Andres with a very complex case for work visas, with a time-sensitive and moving window. Andres was very responsive to all forms of communication which highly contributed to completing the work visa packets in a very short window of time. Their knowledge and attention to detail are impressive and made it a pleasure to work with Andres and his team. Our crews had no issues getting their work visas approved when they arrived in Canada. In fact, the Canadian officials complimented the visa packets they presented, stating they were the most professional and organized packets they had seen in a long time. Thanks to Andres and Borders Law Firm, Siller Helicopters was able to take part in the emergency restoration of power, to towns that were affected by this year's wildfires in Canada. Thank you again Borders Law Firm.
Michael Freeman The team at Borders - specifically Devika and Jenny - were an extraordinary support in navigating the Permanent Residency process. They were responsive and easily available, and incredibly detailed and thorough in their work. I strongly recommend them for anyone navigating the immigration process, and feel so grateful for their expertise and kindness that made a tricky process feel smooth.