Updated: Temporary public policy to exempt certain out-of-status foreign nationals in Canada from immigration requirements during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic
Background:
Since January 30, 2020, when the World Health Organization declared the Coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak to be a Public Health Emergency of International Concern, foreign nationals in Canada - whether they were in Canada at that time or arrived thereafter - have been, and continue to be, affected in many ways, including the loss of temporary resident status. In recognition of the ongoing challenges these foreign nationals in Canada face, there is a need to ensure that they continue to have options to remain legally in Canada during these uncertain times.
I hereby establish that, pursuant to my authority under section 25.2 of the
Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (the
Act), there are sufficient public policy considerations that justify the granting of exemptions from the requirements of the
Act and the
Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (the
Regulations) listed below to foreign nationals who meet the conditions (eligibility requirements) set out below.
This public policy will:
- provide eligible foreign nationals (visitors, temporary workers and international students) who have fallen out of status during the COVID-19 pandemic (i.e., between January 30, 2020 and May 31, 2021) with more time to restore their temporary resident status;
- exempt eligible foreign nationals from the requirement that a work or study permit not be issued if they have not complied with certain temporary resident conditions; and
- allow eligible temporary workers applying for a work permit supported by a job offer, to work while a decision on their restoration application is pending. This includes former workers who have applied, or will apply, within 90 days of losing their temporary resident status, and those availing themselves of the public policy exemption to apply after 90 days have past.
i have read this in ircc website.. so does this mean that tfws can continue working even if they’re in the restoration of status as a worker.