Canada Sets New Rules for Foreign Workers

Canada has outlined the conditions foreign nationals must meet to work legally in the country, including requirements on work permits, renewals and changes in employment.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) says a valid work permit is essential for most foreign nationals seeking employment in Canada. The permit sets out the conditions under which a worker may be employed, including the type of work, authorised employer and location.

Workers who breach these conditions may be found inadmissible to Canada and could face removal. Foreign workers must also apply to renew their permits at least 30 days before they expire. Those who submit a renewal application before expiry may remain on “maintained status” while awaiting a decision, allowing them to continue working under the conditions of their existing permit.

However, workers who leave Canada while their renewal application is being processed cannot resume work until the new permit has been approved. Workers must also update their permits when their circumstances change. This includes changing employers, moving to another province or changing their job role. The required amendments ensure that their permits accurately reflect their employment arrangements.

IRCC has also warned foreign workers and prospective applicants about immigration fraud. Scammers may promise fast-tracked work permits, permanent residency in return for payment or employment opportunities advertised through social media. Applicants are advised that legitimate Canadian immigration processes do not offer such shortcuts.

Temporary foreign workers are protected by Canadian employment laws regardless of the type of work permit they hold. Employers must pay workers for all hours worked, provide safe working conditions and cannot confiscate passports or work permits.

Each province and territory has labour standards offices where workers can seek advice and report concerns. Workers employed under employer-specific permits must also have a signed employment agreement setting out their duties, working hours and wages. They are advised to keep a copy of the agreement.

International students can also work legally in Canada if they meet the conditions of their study permits. They may work on or off campus during their studies and may qualify for a post-graduation work permit if they meet the relevant requirements.

Canada plans to admit up to 230,000 temporary foreign workers in 2026. About 60,000 are expected to enter through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), while 170,000 will arrive through the International Mobility Program (IMP).

The planned TFWP intake represents a reduction from previous years. However, new rules introduced in August allow employers operating across multiple small worksites to hire more low-wage foreign workers.