Canada provides extension for out-of-status construction workers in Greater Toronto Area

Canada provides extension for out-of-status construction workers in Greater Toronto Area

The Government of Canada has extended the deadline for the temporary public policy allowing out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) to apply for permanent residency. This extension now runs until December 31, 2024, or until the program reaches its cap of 1,000 applicants, whichever occurs first. Originally launched in January 2020, this policy aims to support undocumented construction workers by providing a pathway to regularize their status, recognizing their significant contributions to the construction sector in the GTA.

This initiative was introduced to address the chronic labor shortages faced by the construction industry in the GTA, which has long relied on skilled workers, some of whom have lost their legal status over time. Out-of-status individuals often face exploitation due to their vulnerable position, and this program serves as an opportunity for them to secure stability and protection while continuing to work in Canada.

The primary goal is to ensure that these workers, who have played a critical role in meeting the labor demands of the construction industry, are not left out due to bureaucratic or administrative issues.

Eligibility criteria

To qualify for this program, applicants must meet several specific criteria:

• The applicant must have originally entered Canada legally as a temporary resident and must have lived in the country for at least five years.
• A referral letter from the CLC is mandatory, confirming that the applicant meets all the necessary conditions. The CLC acts as a mediator to verify the applicant’s work history and assess eligibility before they can proceed to apply through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
• The candidate must demonstrate at least three years of full-time work experience in the construction industry within the last five years in the GTA. This proof can include employment records, contracts, or other verifiable documents.
• The candidate must have family members residing in Canada.
• The applicant and their family members must not have any significant legal or criminal inadmissibility issues, although some exceptions may apply on a case-by-case basis.

Application Process

Interested individuals must first approach the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC), which will evaluate their eligibility based on the program’s requirements. Once the CLC issues a referral letter, applicants can submit their application to IRCC for processing. During this time, applicants may also be eligible for temporary work permits, allowing them to continue working legally while their permanent residency application is under review.

This streamlined process is designed to minimize the administrative burden on out-of-status workers and provide them with a clear path to regularization. The program’s extension indicates the Canadian government’s recognition of the essential role these workers play in the local economy, particularly in critical sectors like construction.

Conclusion

The extension also serves to protect out-of-status workers from exploitation and uncertainty. Undocumented workers are often hesitant to exercise their employment rights due to fear of deportation or legal consequences. Without proper status, they may not have access to health and safety protections, making them vulnerable to poor working conditions and unfair practices.

By offering these workers a pathway to legal residency, the policy helps ensure they can work without fear, receive fair wages, and access labor rights protections.

Overall, this policy extension not only benefits the construction industry but also highlights Canada’s approach to integrating undocumented workers into society. By creating a legal pathway for these workers, Canada reinforces its commitment to an inclusive and fair immigration system that recognizes the contributions of all workers, regardless of their status.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.