On December 13, 2016, the Government of Canada eliminated the “four-in, four-out” rule.  In April, 2011, Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) implemented a rule that limited some temporary foreign workers to a maximum of four (4) years.  Effective immediately, temporary foreign workers are no longer subjected to the four-year cumulative duration.  Up until December 13, 2016, some temporary foreign workers were unable to extend their work permits beyond four years, and were required to leave Canada.  These workers were required to spend at least four (4) years outside Canada before being eligible to work in Canada.

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFW) was created to help Canada meet the employment demands and respond to labour shortages.  Canadian employers who are unable to fill positions with Canadian citizens or permanent residents may request authorization (Labour Market Impact Assessment) to hire foreign workers.

The changes are welcomed by many, especially those foreign workers in Canada and their employers.  This change is based on a report from the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development Canada, and the status of Persons with Disabilities.

Active Applications

Foreign workers currently in Canada on a work permit, whether it was issued prior to December 13, 2016 or after this date are no longer limited to 4 years maximum. Those applicants who are within a restoration period may now reapply for a work permit.  As always, foreign nationals who wish to apply for a work permit must still satisfy the requirements of Paragraph 183(1)(a) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).

Applicant in Canada

If an applicant in Canada wishes to remain in Canada on a work permit and the period of time that they have been working in Canada meets or exceeds four (4) years, they may apply to extend their stay in Canada as a Worker, provided that they meet the eligibility requirements.

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