Major Changes to LMIA-exempt work permit in 2024 which needs ot be taken care off
Major LMIA-Exempt Work Permit Changes in 2024–2025
Canada introduced several important updates in 2024 that directly impact foreign nationals applying for LMIA-exempt work permits under the International Mobility Program (IMP). These changes do not apply to LMIA-based Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or PGWP holders.
Moreover, they reflect Canada’s broader efforts to modernize its work permit system.
Below is a clear breakdown of the key reforms, timelines, and eligibility updates.
Summary of Key LMIA-Exempt Work Permit Changes
| Change | Summary | Effective Date |
|---|---|---|
| Mexicans no longer TRV exempt | Mexicans now require visas and must meet stricter eTA rules. | Feb 29, 2024 |
| SOWP removed for many student spouses | Spouses of college and most bachelor’s students lose SOWP eligibility. | Mar 19, 2024 |
| New IMP permit for Global Hypergrowth Project | A new LMIA-exempt closed work permit created for select companies. | Apr 15, 2024 |
| New OWP for PNP nominee candidates | Certain PNP candidates can receive open work permits. | Aug 11, 2024 |
| End of COVID-era visitor-to-worker policy | Visitors can no longer apply for employer-backed work permits in Canada. | Aug 28, 2024 |
| Updated ICT rules | Stricter criteria for multinational corporations and specialized knowledge roles. | Oct 3, 2024 |
| TR to PR OWP extension | TR to PR applicants can continue applying for OWPs. | Dec 17, 2024 |
| Ban on flagpoling | Temporary residents can no longer use ports of entry for same-day service. | Dec 23, 2024 |
| IMP work permit targets | New targets set for 2025–2027. | 2025 |
| Future SOWP restrictions | More limits planned for spouses of students and workers. | TBD |
Removal of SOWP Eligibility for Many Spouses of Students
On January 22, 2024, IRCC announced major changes affecting spouses of international students.
As of March 19, 2024, spouses of students in college programs and most bachelor’s degrees are no longer eligible for Spousal Open Work Permits (SOWPs).
Consequently, many families must now reconsider their settlement and work plans.
However, spouses of students in master’s and doctoral programs remain eligible.
Additionally, spouses of students in specific professional programs can still apply for SOWPs. These programs include:
- Dentistry (DDS, DMD)
- Law (LLB, JD, BCL)
- Medicine (MD)
- Optometry (OD)
- Pharmacy (PharmD, BS, BSc, BPharm)
- Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
- Nursing (BScN, BSN, BNSc)
- Education (B.Ed.)
- Engineering (B.Eng., BE, BASc)
Furthermore, on September 18, 2024, IRCC announced additional upcoming restrictions. However, these changes have not yet taken effect as of January 10, 2025.
New IMP Work Permit Under the Global Hypergrowth Project
On April 15, 2024, IRCC launched a new LMIA-exempt employer-specific work permit under the Innovation Stream Pilot.
This permit allows eligible foreign workers to work in Canada for up to five years. Moreover, it introduces new pathways for highly skilled talent to join Canada’s fastest-growing companies.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Hold a high-skilled job offer (TEER 0 or 1)
- Work for a company participating in the Global Hypergrowth Project
Participating companies include:
Ada Support Inc.
AlayaCare
CellCarta
Clarius Mobile Health
Clio
Duchesnay Pharmaceutical Group
Lightspeed Commerce
Vive Crop Protection
In addition, applicants in TEER 0–1 occupations may receive faster processing.
The Innovation Stream will run until March 22, 2026.
New Open Work Permit for PNP Nominee Candidates
Starting August 11, 2024, IRCC introduced a temporary public policy allowing certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates to apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP).
As a result, eligible candidates can continue working legally while they await a final PR decision.
Applicants must:
- Provide a provincial support letter
- Submit an employer letter
- Meet one of three conditions tied to their previous work authorization
Condition 1
Hold a valid work permit and have applied for a new one.
Condition 2
Previously held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, but it has expired.
They must also apply for status restoration.
Condition 3
Were authorized to work on May 7, 2024, with a pending extension.
They must apply for a new permit and extend their status.
Provinces already implementing this policy include Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon.
Updated Instructions for ICT Work Permits
On October 3, 2024, IRCC introduced more detailed guidelines for Intra-Company Transferees (ICTs) under the IMP.
Key Enhancements
- Officers must confirm the foreign business is a true multinational corporation.
- Definitions of specialized knowledge have been tightened.
- ICT permits must not be used to transfer regular staff to Canadian branches.
Therefore, businesses must provide stronger proof of corporate structure and genuine specialized expertise.
TR to PR Open Work Permit Extension
On December 17, 2024, IRCC extended the public policy that allows TR to PR pathway applicants to apply for Open Work Permits until December 31, 2026.
This extension ensures applicants can continue working while their applications remain in progress.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Hold a work permit expiring in four months or less
- Have an active TR to PR application still in processing
- Meet all remaining eligibility rules
Family members may also qualify for open work permits.
However, IRCC may end this policy at any time without notice.
Need Help Understanding the New LMIA-Exempt Rules?
These changes significantly reshape Canada’s temporary work permit landscape.
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