HUMA - Facilitating for Work Permits

Key messages

• This Government is committed to processing priority applications as quickly as possible, which includes Canadians attempting to return, people who perform or support essential services and vulnerable populations.
• IRCC has temporarily suspended the processing of visitor visa applications as well as electronic travel authorization applications that cannot be automatically approved, unless the applicants are exempt from the travel restrictions and are not traveling for a discretionary purpose. This allows IRCC to use resources where they are most needed.
• In consultation with Employment and Social Development Canada, my Department is also prioritizing applications from workers in essential occupations, where labour is most needed to ensure sufficient food supply and to protect the health of Canadians.
• For foreign nationals who currently hold a work or study permit, we are encouraging people to apply online before their current permit expires to allow them to continue working or studying under implied status until their new application can be processed.

Supplementary messages

Work Permit Processing Times

• Processing times for work permit applications finalized from January 1 to April 30, 2020, at 32 days, are significantly lower than in previous years for the same period (compared to 45 days in 2019 and 40 days in 2018). The service standard is 60 days.
• Since special measures were introduced on March 18, 2020, work permits for essential occupations, such as agricultural workers, have been prioritized for processing.

Supporting facts and figures