Canada Implements Sweeping Changes to Work Permit Rules to Crack Down on Illegal Employment Practices and Enhance Compliance

Canada has introduced significant changes to its work permit rules.

These changes focus on eliminating illegal cash jobs and making the work permit process more transparent and secure.

Understanding these updates is crucial for both employers and employees to avoid legal issues and ensure compliance with Canadian laws.

The Canadian government has made several key changes to work permits, aiming to stop illegal practices and improve the overall process.

Stopping Cash Jobs

Cash jobs have been a persistent issue in Canada, where workers are paid in cash to avoid taxes and regulations.

These jobs are illegal and come with severe consequences for both employers and employees.

1.Enforcement Actions: Authorities have increased their efforts to crack down on illegal cash jobs.

This includes conducting raids and inspections across the country.

2.Employer Penalties: Employers caught hiring workers for cash face significant fines and legal action.

3.Employee Risks: Employees working for cash risk losing their jobs, being fined, and facing deportation if they are not legal residents.

Work Permit Process

The process for obtaining work permits has been updated to ensure that all applications meet legal requirements.

1.Clearer Guidelines: The new rules provide clearer guidelines for obtaining work permits, ensuring that applicants follow all necessary steps.
2.Strict Compliance: Applicants must now adhere to stricter compliance measures to ensure their work permits are valid and lawful.
Restrictions on Flag Poling

Flag poling is a practice where individuals leave and re-enter Canada to quickly obtain a work permit.

This method has now been restricted.

1.Limited Points of Entry: Only certain points of entry are now allowed for flag poling, reducing the opportunities for this practice.
2.Time Restrictions: There are now specific days and times when flag poling can be conducted.

Changes to Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

The Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students to work in Canada after graduation.

The new rules have introduced several changes to this permit.

1.Flag Poling Restrictions: International students can no longer use flag poling to obtain a PGWP.
2.Application Process: Students must follow the updated application process to obtain a PGWP.

Cash jobs have been problematic in Canada, with many people working without proper documentation.

The new rules aim to eliminate this practice entirely.

Enforcement Actions

Authorities have intensified their efforts to find and eliminate illegal cash jobs.

1.Raids and Inspections: There are now more raids and inspections being conducted across Canada to find illegal cash jobs.
2.Legal Consequences: Both employers and employees caught in cash job arrangements face severe legal consequences, including fines and deportation.

Legal Work Only

Working legally in Canada is crucial for avoiding legal issues and ensuring job security.

Documented Work: Make sure your job is properly documented and you are paying taxes.

Building a Good Record: Working legally helps build a good work record, which is important for future job opportunities and immigration processes.

Changes in LMIA and Work Permits

The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that some employers need to hire foreign workers. The new rules have also affected LMIAs.

LMIA Changes

Strict Monitoring: Authorities are now closely monitoring LMIAs to ensure they are being used correctly.

Real Jobs Only: Employers must prove that the job offer is genuine and that they cannot find a Canadian to fill the position.
Work Permit Conversion

Converting visitor visas to work permits has also been affected by the new rules.

Avoid Middlemen: Applicants should avoid using agents or middlemen and apply directly to companies.

Future Job Demand: Ensure that the job you are applying for will still be in demand in the future.

Impact on Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

The PGWP is an essential permit for international students.

The new rules have made significant changes to how this permit can be obtained.

Flag Poling Restrictions: International students can no longer use flag poling to obtain a PGWP.

Application Process: Students must follow the updated application process, ensuring all requirements are met.

To ensure you comply with the new rules and have a smooth experience, follow these tips:

Always apply directly to employers to avoid complications.

Make sure all your documents are legal and complete.

Keep up with the latest changes in work permit rules to avoid issues.

Ensure you follow all new rules when hiring foreign workers.

Never pay employees in cash to avoid legal trouble.

Only apply for LMIAs for real job positions.

Source : https://tucnigeria.org.ng/new-changes-in-work-permit-july-2024-no-more-cash-jobs/#google_vignette