Canada updates which workers can enter Canada

Canada has released more information about how exempt workers will be able to enter the country even while the coronavirus travel restrictions are in place. IRCC has provided this updated guidance so that exempt work permit holders can enter Canada without any hassle. IRCC, at this moment, is still accepting and processing new applications.

Temporary workers:

IRCC lists two circumstances in which temporary foreign workers (TFW) staying outside Canada will be able to travel to Canada for non-optional reasons:

• Foreign nationals with a valid Canadian work permit.
• Foreign nationals whose work permit has not been issued yet if they can show a letter of introduction from IRCC.

Priority given to critical professions:

The IRCC officers are instructed to give priority to foreign nationals with work permits who want to enter the country as professionals in the health, safety, and food security industries. These individuals will not have to abide by the travel restrictions and could possibly be exempted from the mandatory 14-day quarantine period as well. The critical occupations include:

• Students who want to enter the country with the intention of training in a health field. They should have written approval from the regulating body of their field.
• Marine transportation workers.
• Emergency service providers such as firefighters and medical service workers who will protect lives and property.
• Workers who can deliver maintain, or fix medical equipment
• Workers entering Canada to deliver medical care necessities like tissues, organs, cells, blood, and related products.

Discretionary situations:

The Canada Border Service Agency (CBSA) officers are allowed to make discretionary decisions on the basis of specific situations presented by foreign nationals. CBSA officers will consider certain factors such as the candidate’s ties to Canada, their occupation, the reason for travel.