The Government of Canada has introduced a new temporary measure aimed at supporting foreign workers in Quebec. This initiative allows these workers to extend their employment while their applications for permanent residence are under review. Announced on March 13 by Joël Lightbound, Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and Quebec Lieutenant, this measure provides an expedited employer-specific work permit under the International Mobility Program (IMP) for eligible workers. The objective is to assist workers in maintaining employment, thereby aiding in their transition to permanent residence while stimulating Canada's long-term economic growth.
Eligibility Criteria for the New Work Permit
This temporary work permit is designed for foreign workers in Quebec who meet specific criteria. To qualify, a worker must have been invited to apply under Quebec's Skilled Worker Selection Program (PSTQ) and have submitted a Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP). Three categories of workers are eligible for this permit:
- Cohort 1: Workers holding a valid employer-specific work permit under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or IMP that expires on or before December 31, 2026.
- Cohort 2: Workers whose employer-specific permit has expired, but who applied for an extension before its expiry and are now on maintained status.
- Cohort 3: Workers whose employer-specific permit expired between March 13, 2026, and December 31, 2026, who are currently out of status, and need to apply for both a work permit and restoration.
It is crucial to note that workers are not eligible for this work permit if they changed to visitor status within Canada after their work permit expired or if their permit expired before March 13, 2026, leaving them out of status even within the 90-day restoration period.
Application Process and Benefits
Eligible workers can apply for this temporary work permit on the IRCC's website until December 31, 2026. The government has set a 30-day service standard for expedited processing of applications. It is advisable for workers to submit their applications before their current permits expire to avoid disruptions in employment. This measure is part of a broader strategy to facilitate the transition of foreign workers to permanent residents, contributing to Canada's economic vitality.
A Demande de Sélection Permanente (DSP) is a prerequisite for obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (Certificat de sélection du Québec, CSQ). The CSQ is issued by Quebec's Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI) and signifies that the holder is approved to settle in Quebec. Once obtained, the applicant can proceed to apply for Canadian permanent residence with federal authorities. This streamlined process underscores the government's commitment to supporting foreign workers while addressing Canada's labor market needs.
Conclusion
The introduction of this temporary work permit represents a significant step in supporting foreign workers in Quebec. By allowing these individuals to continue working while awaiting permanent residence, Canada not only assists them in their personal and professional journeys but also strengthens its economy. With the eligibility criteria clearly defined and the application process facilitated, this measure ensures that qualified workers can seamlessly transition to permanent residents, fostering a stable workforce in Quebec. In turn, this contributes to Canada's overarching goal of sustained economic growth and workforce development. By being proactive in addressing the needs of foreign workers, Canada reaffirms its status as a welcoming nation committed to diversity and economic prosperity.
For more information, potential applicants are encouraged to visit the official government webpage or the IRCC's site for detailed guidelines and application procedures.
