Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially extended a public policy that offers greater flexibility for foreign workers in Canada on employer-specific work permits. This temporary measure allows eligible individuals to switch employers or job roles before receiving a decision on their new work permit application — an important relief for both workers and employers amid ongoing labour shortages.

What Does This Policy Mean?

Traditionally, foreign nationals holding a closed work permit (linked to a specific employer and job) were not allowed to start a new job until their new work permit was fully approved. With this public policy in place, eligible workers can now begin working for their new employer immediately after applying for the new permit, without waiting for formal approval.

This temporary flexibility helps:

• Prevent disruptions in employment
• Support Canadian businesses needing skilled workers
• Provide stability to workers facing unsafe or precarious job conditions

Who Is Eligible?

To benefit from this public policy, foreign workers must meet all of the following:

1. Be physically present in Canada with valid temporary resident status
2. Have applied for a new employer-specific work permit
3. Be changing employers or job roles, as outlined in the new application
4. Use the IRCC Web Form to request interim work authorization

Important: When contacting IRCC, applicants must include the phrase PPCHANGEWORK2020 in their message, along with the details of both their current and prospective employment.

How to Apply for a Job Change as a Foreign Worker in Canada

1. Submit a new employer-specific work permit application online through your IRCC account.
2. Contact IRCC via the IRCC Web Form and request authorization to begin working while awaiting a decision.
3. Include the reference code PPCHANGEWORK2020 in the message body, along with details of your new job and employer.

Official Source

This policy is outlined in IRCC’s public guidance. For complete details, visit:
👉 IRCC: Public Policy – Changing Employers in Canada

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📌 Need help switching employers or updating your work permit?
We’re here to assist. Contact our office for personalized guidance on navigating IRCC procedures and ensuring your transition is fully compliant.

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Disclaimer: This article summarizes a public policy published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). While every effort is made to provide accurate and timely information, applicants are encouraged to refer to official IRCC sources for the most current details.