IRCC extends policy allowing foreign workers on closed work permits to change employers
Normally, foreign nationals in Canada who hold an employer-specific work permit—commonly known as a closed work permit—are only legally authorized to work for the employer and in the occupation listed on their permit. They are not permitted to begin working for a different employer or in a new role until a new work permit is issued. However, a temporary public policy first introduced in May 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic and now updated as of May 27, 2025, allows certain foreign workers to apply for an exemption to this rule. To qualify, the foreign national must be in Canada with valid temporary resident status (including maintained status), must have submitted an application for a new work permit or a work permit extension, must have been authorized to work in Canada at the time of application, and must intend to work for a new employer and/or in a new occupation as stated in a job offer. The individual must formally request the exemption and wait for confirmation from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that the exemption has been granted before starting the new job. This confirmation, usually received by email within 10 to 15 days, allows the worker to begin employment while awaiting a final decision on the new work permit application. Further guidance on applying for the exemption is available through IRCC’s official website and related resources.