09 June 2025 : This month, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney invited Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to attend the upcoming G7 meeting in Alberta. Just hours after extending the invitation, Carney made a global statement recognizing India’s importance, calling it the world’s fifth-largest economy and a key participant in the conference. This is being seen as a positive step towards improving India-Canada relations, which had deteriorated under former PM Justin Trudeau’s tenure.
Canada Changes Work Permit Rules
The Canadian government has announced a major change to its work permit rules, bringing relief to thousands of Indian workers. Under a new temporary public policy, foreign workers will now be allowed to start working in Canada before receiving final approval on their new work permit application.
Previously, if a foreign worker wanted to change jobs, they were required to get a new work permit before starting their new position. This meant weeks—sometimes months—of waiting without income. The new rule changes that.
Key Benefits for Indian Workers:
- Foreign workers whose previous work permit has expired and who have applied for a new one can now start a new job immediately after getting hired, without waiting for permit approval.
- Workers on maintained status (i.e., working under old permit conditions while waiting for a new permit) can change jobs and employers freely.
- The new policy will also apply to those exempt from needing a work permit but who wish to obtain one for a new role.
Why This Matters:
- Many Indians working in Canada often need to switch jobs for better career opportunities.
- Under old rules, this meant a long waiting period with no income.
- Now, job seekers and those recently laid off can start earning again right away, even while their new permits are being processed.
This move, timed just before Modi’s visit, signals improved diplomatic ties and direct benefits for the large Indian workforce in Canada.
Summary:
Ahead of PM Modi’s visit, Canada eases job-switch rules for foreign workers and expands spouse permits, while tightening visa enforcement at borders.