August 4, 2025

Lost Your Job While on a Closed Work Permit? Don’t Panic – Here’s What to Do

Losing your job while on a closed work permit in Canada can be nerve-wracking. But it doesn’t mean your immigration journey is over. You still have powerful options to stay, work, and even switch your status—without leaving the country.   This guide will help you understand your rights, choose your next move, and take action quickly. Whether you’re in Ontario, Alberta, or anywhere else—Sayal Immigration is here to support your next step with trusted, local guidance.

🔍 What Is a Closed Work Permit?

A closed work permit (also called an employer-specific work permit) ties you to one job, one employer, and one location. If that job ends—voluntarily or not—you can’t work for anyone else unless you get a new permit. However, your status in Canada remains valid until the permit’s expiry date. That gives you time to plan your next move. To understand the conditions of your permit, you can refer to this official IRCC page.

✅ Step One: Check Your Status

First, check the expiry date on your work permit. As long as your permit is still valid, you can legally remain in Canada. But you must apply for a new permit before it expires to maintain your status. If you’re unsure how to interpret your permit, an Immigration Consultant in Canada can help guide you based on your unique case.

🛠️ Option 1: Find a New Employer & Apply for a New Permit

If you want to continue working under a closed permit, find a new job offer. Your new employer will likely need to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Once approved, you can apply for a new work permit. Use this LMIA guide from the Government of Canada to understand employer responsibilities. When you apply for the new permit before your current one expires, you’ll stay in legal status. You can also request permission to start working while your new permit is processing by contacting IRCC using the code: PPCHANGEWORK2020. This is especially helpful for workers in cities like Brampton or Kitchener where tech, warehousing, and logistics jobs are on the rise. If you’re in the area, consider contacting a licensed Immigration Consultant in Brampton or Immigration consultant in Kitchener for targeted support.

🌐 Option 2: Apply for an Open Work Permit

Want more flexibility? An open work permit isn’t tied to a specific job or employer. You may qualify if:
  • You’re the spouse of a skilled worker or international student.
  • You’re applying for permanent residence and qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP).
  • You’ve faced abuse or exploitation in the workplace and qualify for a Vulnerable Worker Open Permit.
For abuse-related work permit pathways, see Canada’s protection for vulnerable workers. Residents in larger cities like Toronto or Mississauga often pursue these options with the help of a certified Immigration Consultant in Toronto or Immigration Consultant in Mississauga—especially when navigating complex personal situations.

💻 Option 3: Work Remotely for a Foreign Company

Another path: if your current permit is still valid, you can legally work remotely for a non-Canadian employer—as long as that company has no operations, clients, or business presence in Canada. This is a popular option for IT professionals, digital marketers, and designers. If you’re planning to switch to a visitor record and freelance remotely, you can apply for one here: Apply for or Extend a Visitor Record – Canada.ca To avoid gaps in status, consult a trusted Immigration Consultant in London Ontario if you’re based in southwestern Ontario.

⌛ Restore Your Status (If Your Permit Expired)

Missed your permit expiry date? You might still have up to 90 days to apply to restore your status. You must not have worked illegally and must meet all requirements of your new application. Learn more on Restoring Status in Canada. If you’re unsure whether you qualify, seek help from an experienced Immigration Consultant in Scarborough, especially if you’re dealing with tight timelines or complex histories.

📝 Temporary Public Policy: Still Active!

Thanks to a temporary IRCC public policy, you may be able to change jobs inside Canada even while your application is being processed. This policy was extended in 2025 to help foreign workers move jobs without having to leave the country. It’s been a game-changer for thousands. You can read the announcement here. This flexibility gives you more time and freedom—just be sure to follow all conditions carefully.

🧭 Summary of Your Options

Scenario Next Step
Permit valid, lost job Stay in Canada and apply for a new work permit before expiry
Found new employer Employer applies for LMIA → you apply for employer-specific work permit
Spouse of skilled worker / PR pathway Apply for an open work permit (PGWP, BOWP, spousal, etc.)
Workplace abuse Apply for Vulnerable Worker Open Permit
Want to freelance for non-Canadian firm Apply for Visitor Record and work remotely for foreign clients
Permit expired Restore status within 90 days via IRCC guidelines

🗣️ Final Thoughts

Losing your job under a closed work permit doesn’t mean losing your future in Canada. You have real, actionable solutions to remain in the country—legally and confidently. Whether it’s switching permits, finding a new job, or applying for permanent residence, the key is acting quickly, staying informed, and seeking the right support. At Sayal Immigration, we assist clients across Canada—whether you’re in Toronto, Brampton, Mississauga, Kitchener, Scarborough, or London Ontario. Let a trusted Immigration Consultant in Canada help guide your journey with clarity and compassion.
January 28, 2025

Big Changes to Canada’s Super Visa Program in 2025

The Super Visa program in Canada has always been a great option for families who want to bring their parents or grandparents for long visits. This special visa allows stays of up to five years at a time, providing a practical solution compared to regular visitor visas. Recently, the Canadian government announced changes to the Super Visa rules to make the process easier for applicants. These updates focus on health insurance requirements, giving families more choices while ensuring coverage.

Submit the Assessment Form to Discover your Eligibility

If you’re thinking about applying for a Super Visa, Sayal Immigration can help. We’re a trusted Immigration Consultant in Canada, and we’ve guided many families through this process successfully.

What’s New? Flexible Insurance Options

One of the main updates in January 2025 allows applicants to buy health insurance from foreign providers instead of being limited to Canadian companies. Before this change, families sometimes struggled with the high costs of Canadian insurance plans. Now, applicants can choose approved foreign insurance providers, provided they meet specific standards set by Canada’s Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI).

The new rules require that:

  1. The insurance company must be authorized to provide health insurance in Canada.
  2. The company must appear on OSFI’s list of regulated institutions.
  3. Policies must meet all coverage requirements set by the Canadian government.

These updates give families more affordable and flexible options, helping to reduce the financial strain often associated with meeting the insurance requirements for the Super Visa. For more details on eligibility, visit the IRCC Super Visa page.

Why Insurance is Essential for Super Visa Applicants

The Super Visa is designed to let parents and grandparents visit their families in Canada without worrying about medical emergencies. Visitors under this program don’t qualify for Canada’s public healthcare, so private health insurance is mandatory. The policy must:

  • Cover a minimum of $100,000 in medical costs.
  • Be valid for at least one year.
  • Include hospital care, doctor’s fees, and repatriation.

If your insurance expires during your stay, it’s your responsibility to renew it immediately to stay compliant. For more information on Canada’s healthcare requirements for newcomers, check out the Government of Canada’s guide on health care.

Real-Life Example: How Sayal Immigration Helps

Take Aman and Simran, for example, a couple living in Brampton, wanted to bring Aman’s parents to Canada on a Super Visa. They had difficulty finding affordable insurance from Canadian providers. Unsure of how to proceed, they contacted Sayal Immigration for support.

Here’s how we helped:

  1. Initial Assessment: We reviewed Aman’s parents’ eligibility for the Super Visa.
  2. Insurance Options: With the new rules, we guided them to an approved foreign insurer that offered a suitable policy at a lower cost.
  3. Documentation Assistance: We ensured their application included all required documents, reducing the chances of delays.
  4. Successful Approval: Aman’s parents received their Super Visa without complications.

Today, Aman’s parents are happily spending time with their family in Canada, all thanks to proper planning and Sayal Immigration’s expert guidance.

Simplify Your Super Visa Application

Applying for a Super Visa might feel overwhelming, especially with changing rules and strict requirements. That’s where Sayal Immigration comes in. Here’s how we make the process easier:

  1. Personalized Advice: We analyze your unique situation to give you tailored recommendations.
  2. Insurance Verification: Our team ensures your insurance policy meets all OSFI and IRCC standards.
  3. Document Preparation: We help you collect and organize all necessary documents.
  4. End-to-End Support: From submission to follow-up, we handle everything for you.

As a trusted Immigration Consultant in Toronto and Brampton, we have years of experience helping families reunite under programs like the Super Visa. Let us handle the hard work so you can focus on what matters – spending time with your loved ones.

Additional Resources for Families

If you’re exploring the Super Visa or other family immigration options, these official resources are worth a look:

Book an Appointment with Sahil for any Immigration related Queries

Why Choose Sayal Immigration?

The 2025 updates to the Super Visa program make it easier than ever to reunite with your family in Canada. However, the process still involves navigating complex rules and documentation. That’s where our expertise comes in. Whether you’re looking for a top immigration consultant in Canada or need personalized advice from Immigration Consultant in Brampton, we’re here to help.

Don’t let the paperwork hold you back. Contact Sayal Immigration today and let us make your Super Visa journey smooth and stress-free. Together, we can bring your family closer to home.

January 20, 2025

Understanding Express Entry: What You Need to Know About the Tie-Breaking Rule

Navigating Canada’s Express Entry system can feel a bit like decoding a puzzle, especially when it comes to understanding the tie-breaking rule. For anyone looking to get permanent residency (PR) in Canada, this rule is a key part of the process. If you’ve ever wondered how applicants with the same Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score are sorted out, the answer lies in this rule. Understanding it could make the difference between getting an invitation to apply (ITA) or waiting another round.

Submit the Assessment Form to Discover your Eligibility

So, What Exactly Is the Tie-Breaking Rule in Express Entry?

If you’re applying for Canadian PR through Express Entry, your CRS score is one of the most important factors. This score is based on things like your age, education, work experience, and language skills in English or French. But what happens if two applicants end up with the same score? That’s where the tie-breaking rule comes in.

When multiple candidates have the same CRS score, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses the tie-breaking rule to decide who gets the ITA. The key factor here is the submission date of your profile. The earlier you submit your profile, the higher your chances of receiving an ITA if there’s a tie.

Looking for expert advice from a trusted Immigration Consultant in Canada? A skilled consultant can help you navigate the complexities of the Express Entry system and optimize your chances of success.

How Does the Tie-Breaking Rule Work?

Let’s say the CRS cut-off score for a specific draw is set at 470. If two candidates, say Aisha and Raj, both have 470 points, the IRCC looks at when each profile was submitted. Let’s assume Aisha submitted hers on March 1, 2024, and Raj submitted his profile on March 15, 2024. If the IRCC sets the tie-breaking date as March 10, 2024, Aisha gets the ITA because she submitted her profile before the tie-breaking date, while Raj does not.

It’s a bit like a race where both runners are equally fast, but the one who starts earlier wins.

Why Should You Care About the Tie-Breaking Rule?

Now that you understand how the rule works, you might be wondering, “Why is this so important?” Well, if your CRS score is just above the cut-off score and you’re hoping to get an ITA, this rule can play a big role. While it’s tempting to focus only on boosting your CRS score, submitting your profile as early as possible is a smart move. By doing so, you give yourself a better shot at securing that coveted ITA, especially if your score is on the borderline.

If you need help optimizing your Express Entry profile, consider reaching out to a reputable Immigration Consultant in Toronto who can guide you through the process and ensure your application is top-notch.

Let’s Break It Down with a Real-Life Example

Imagine Priya, who submits her Express Entry profile on February 1, 2024, with a CRS score of 465. A few months later, Sameer submits his profile with the same score on April 15, 2024. The IRCC announces a draw with a cut-off date of March 10, 2024. Guess what happens? Priya receives the ITA, but Sameer does not. Why? Because Priya submitted her profile before the tie-breaking date, and Sameer’s profile came in too late.

This example shows just how important it is to be proactive. Waiting around can cost you an opportunity. If you’re sitting on the fence about submitting your profile, don’t wait. The sooner you submit, the better.

A Few Things to Keep in Mind

Here are some tips and things to remember when you’re applying:

  1. Maximize Your CRS Score: Sure, the tie-breaking rule is important, but your CRS score still holds the most weight. The higher your score, the more likely you are to receive an ITA. So, what can you do to bump up your score? Here are a few ideas:
    • Work on your language skills: If you haven’t taken a language test yet (or if you can improve your score), this could give you a significant boost.
    • Get additional education or experience: A higher level of education or more work experience in your field can increase your CRS score.
    • Consider provincial nominations: Some provinces in Canada issue nominations that give you an extra 600 CRS points.
    Every little improvement counts, so take some time to check your CRS score using the Government of Canada’s CRS tool and see where you can make changes.

An experienced Immigration Consultant in Brampton can assist you in identifying the best strategies for maximizing your CRS score and enhancing your chances of success.

  1. Profile Updates Don’t Affect Submission Dates: Here’s something that often trips people up: If you update your profile with new qualifications, improved test scores, or new job experience, your submission date stays the same. This is a big deal because it means you won’t lose your spot in the queue. Just make sure that any updates you make don’t involve deleting and resubmitting your profile, as that will reset your submission date.
  2. Be Cautious About Deleting and Resubmitting Profiles: Sometimes, people delete and resubmit their profiles to make improvements. While this can help in certain situations, it also resets your submission date. If you’re trying to avoid the tie-breaking issue, it’s better to update your profile rather than start from scratch.

How to Strengthen Your Express Entry Application

It’s not just about the tie-breaking rule—it’s about making your application as strong as possible overall. Here are a few practical tips that can help you stand out:

  1. Submit Early: If you’re eligible for Express Entry, don’t wait around. Submit your profile as soon as you can. The earlier you get your profile in, the better your chances of avoiding any issues with the tie-breaking rule.
  2. Focus on Improving Your CRS Score: There’s always room for improvement, so if you can raise your CRS score, it’s worth putting in the effort. Even small changes can help you stay above the cut-off and avoid a tie-breaking situation.
  3. Stay Updated: IRCC frequently updates the CRS cut-offs, tie-breaking dates, and other details. Stay on top of the latest draw results and news so you can adapt your strategy accordingly.

The Role of an Immigration Consultant

Navigating the complexities of Express Entry can feel daunting, especially if you’re new to the process. If you’re unsure about how to optimize your CRS score or handle the intricacies of the tie-breaking rule, working with a skilled Immigration Consultant in Canada can help. A consultant can guide you through the process, help you improve your profile, and give you peace of mind that you’re putting your best foot forward.

Whether you need assistance with your language tests, help with profile optimization, or advice on boosting your chances, an experienced Immigration Consultant in Brampton can make the process smoother and more efficient.

Book an Appointment with Sahil for any Immigration related Queries

Conclusion

Understanding the tie-breaking rule in Express Entry is crucial for anyone aiming for Canadian PR. By submitting your profile early, improving your CRS score, and staying informed about the latest draws, you can significantly increase your chances of receiving an ITA. And remember, don’t get caught in a tie-breaker situation—take control of your immigration journey, and make your submission count. If you need help, don’t hesitate to reach out to a trusted Immigration Consultant in Toronto. Good luck!