Canada has recently revoked a pandemic-era immigration policy, bringing changes that could significantly affect Filipino workers. The policy, introduced in August 2020, allowed individuals with temporary visas to apply for work permits without leaving the country. However, as of August 28, this policy has been terminated, causing a ripple of concern among Filipinos in Canada.
This move is part of Canada’s effort to “recalibrate the number of temporary residents in the country” and ensure the integrity of its immigration system. The revocation means that visitor visa holders can no longer apply for work permits from within Canada, forcing applicants to return to their home countries for visa processing.
The changes coincide with the announcement of tighter Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) rules, particularly for low-wage temporary foreign workers. As of September 26, low-wage positions in regions with unemployment rates of 6% or higher will no longer be processed, and the employment term for low-wage workers is being reduced from two years to one.
For many Filipinos who came to Canada hoping to secure employment under the temporary policy, the abrupt termination has caused distress. According to Kaede Kikumoto, a regulated immigration consultant, the policy shift has sparked panic among Filipino workers. “There are so many Filipinos who came here on visitor visas hoping to find a job. Now, with these changes, they are struggling even more,” Kikumoto told Philippine Star.
Some Filipinos are reportedly considering returning home, citing difficulties in finding work and saving up for their plane tickets. Kikumoto added, “They are asking for any job, just to save up for their ticket back to the Philippines.”
Despite the challenges, Filipinos already working in Canada may still be in a relatively stable position. However, Kikumoto noted that those who lose their jobs will need to reapply for visas, requiring them to leave Canada and return later. “For those already here, they’re somewhat safe, but they still need to go through the visa process again if they lose their employment,” Kikumoto added.
Ace Agcaoili, a permanent resident in Canada, mentioned that while the policy changes might open more opportunities for citizens and permanent residents, they also make it harder for international students and temporary workers to find employment. “It’s a big loss for Filipinos here, but with so many people already struggling to find jobs, it’s understandable why Canada had to tighten the rules,” Agcaoili told Philippine Star.
With the unemployment rate in Canada at 6.4% as of June 2024, these changes are seen as an attempt to prioritize employment opportunities for citizens and permanent residents. However, for many Filipinos, the end of the pandemic-era policy is a significant blow to their aspirations of working in Canada.