On May 27, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced a new public policy that allows certain temporary foreign workers in Canada to change employers on a closed work permit in Canada, also referred to as an employer-specific work permit, with greater flexibility. This change helps reduce employment gaps and provides faster transitions for both workers and employers.

What Is a Closed Work Permit?

A closed work permit in Canada allows a foreign national to work only for the employer listed on their permit. Previously, if a worker wanted to change employers, they had to apply for a new permit and wait for approval before starting the new job. This led to long delays and lost income.

2025 IRCC Policy Update: What’s Changed?

The new policy allows eligible workers in Canada to start working for a new employer while their new work permit is being processed, as long as they receive interim authorization from IRCC. This helps reduce downtime and supports Canada’s labour market needs.

Key Highlights

• Applies to workers already inside Canada
• Speeds up job transitions
• Requires a formal request to IRCC for interim work authorization

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify under this public policy, the foreign worker must:

• Be physically in Canada with valid temporary resident status, or on maintained status;
• Have submitted a new employer-specific work permit application; and,
• Request interim authorization from IRCC to begin working for the new employer.

Who Can Use This Policy?

This policy applies to foreign nationals who:

• Hold a valid employer-specific work permit and want to change employers;
• Are on maintained status and have applied for a new work permit; or,
• Are work-permit exempt but now require a permit to work in a new role.

Why This New Work Permit Policy Matters

This new 2025 policy from IRCC is great news for both workers and employers in Canada. Here’s why it matters and how it helps:

For Foreign Workers:

• Keep earning while changing jobs: Before this policy, workers had to stop working and wait for their new work permit to be approved. Now, they can start the new job once IRCC gives them early permission — so they don’t miss out on income.
• More job options and freedom: Many foreign workers are tied to one employer, making them vulnerable to exploitation or poor working conditions. This policy gives workers the ability to pursue better opportunities, healthier work environments, or jobs more aligned with their skills and goals. They can now switch employers more easily.
• Less stress: Not knowing when you can start working again can be very stressful. This new system reduces wait times and uncertainty. By allowing quicker transitions, this policy reduces that emotional burden.
• Faster Integration: Foreign workers who can move easily between jobs are more likely to find roles that match their expertise, helping them contribute more meaningfully to the Canadian economy and settle into life in Canada more smoothly.

For Canadian Employers:

• Hire faster: Employers can bring on workers who are already in Canada more quickly, without long delays. This policy allows them to hire skilled workers who are already in Canada and ready to work, reducing onboarding times.
• Fill urgent roles: In sectors with shortages — like hospitality, health care, agriculture, and construction — this change helps keep operations running smoothly. With faster transitions between jobs, employers can avoid the disruptions caused by permit delays or incomplete transitions.
• Greater hiring flexibility: This policy allows businesses to act quickly when they find a qualified candidate. This agility is especially important in fast-moving or seasonal industries.
• Enhanced worker retention: Fair employers who offer competitive wages and positive environments will benefit by attracting experienced workers who are now free to choose job offers that align better with their skills and experience.
• Follow the rules and stay compliant: This new policy gives employers a clear and legal way to hire someone who is changing jobs, helping them ensure business compliance with all IRCC requirements.

For Canada’s Economy:

• Better use of talent: Canada faces ongoing labour shortages in key sectors. This policy ensures that available labour can be reallocated efficiently, keeping the economy functioning smoothly.
• Supports Canada’s immigration goals: This policy reflects Canada’s commitment to fairness and long-term newcomer success, not just short-term labour needs. By improving working conditions and reducing administrative barriers, the policy strengthens Canada’s reputation as a fair and welcoming destination for skilled immigrants.

Need Help Changing Employers on a Closed Work Permit?

At Zohil-Morton Law, we specialize in helping foreign workers and employers navigate Canadian immigration laws. If you’re unsure how to apply for a new work permit or how to request IRCC authorization, we can help. By choosing Zohil-Morton Law, you’re partnering with a team committed to your success in Canada. We are proud members of the Canadian Bar Association (CBA) and advocates for high-quality, client-focused immigration representation.

Schedule a confidential consultation with Cristina Zohil-Morton, Founder and Principal Lawyer, or email her directly at cristina@zomolaw.ca.

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