Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the termination of a temporary public policy that permitted visitors to apply for work permits from within the country. This policy, introduced in August 2020, was designed to assist visitors who were unable to leave Canada due to COVID-19 travel restrictions. Under this rule, visitors could apply for work permits without departing the country, and those who had recently held a work permit but had switched to visitor status could also apply to work legally while awaiting a decision on their new work permit application.
Originally set to expire on February 28, 2025, the IRCC decided to end the policy earlier to manage the number of temporary residents and maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system. The Canadian government cited concerns over misuse of the policy, with some individuals exploiting it to work in Canada without proper authorization.
Despite the policy’s end, the IRCC will continue to process applications submitted before August 28, 2024, under this framework. The termination of this policy is expected to significantly impact prospective migrants, including many Nigerians who have been exploring opportunities to stay in Canada. This change comes amidst heightened tensions, as recent protests have erupted across Canada involving tens of thousands of international students opposing new immigration policies that threaten the deportation of approximately 70,000 students.
Canada remains a popular destination for Nigerians seeking better opportunities and education, especially in light of the recent trend of emigration known as ‘Japa.’
WRITTEN BY; CHRISTOPHER AND BLOSSOM