Delays in processing applications for the extension of work permits, including open work permits, are leaving people in limbo, depriving them not only of the ability to earn a living, but also of the access to the most basic things: healthcare and education for their children. This is not just a bureaucratic issue; it is a tragedy affecting real people and a violation of their fundamental human rights.
Imagine this: a person arrives to Canada, gets a job, pays taxes, contributes to the society but due to the processing delays, loses their legal status or access to healthcare, simply because the decision on their extension hasn’t been made yet...
In most provinces, migrants awaiting extension are not entitled to health coverage, thus any illness becomes a crushing financial burden. And their children often face limitations in accessing public schools.
This is unfair. This is painful. And it makes us wondering: how did we get here?
The causes of this crisis are deep and complex:
1.A surge in applications: The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and open work permits are in extremely high demand, especially among those dreaming of permanent residency.
2.Regulatory changes: new restrictions, ongoing changes, and immigration limits introduced amidst public debate have created chaos and extended processing times.
3.An overloaded system: The average processing time for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) increased from 58 days in 2023 to 165 days by March 2025. Open work permit holders face delays of up to 8–9 months (!!!).
4.Bureaucratic traps: The ability to work while waiting for an extension often depends on deadlines that are practically unachievable.
The consequences of these delays are catastrophic:
•Economic despair: People who lose status are forced to work illegally, risking exploitation. This is not only their pain, it is a loss for the country, which silently enables this form of labor.
•Medical vulnerability: Without access to healthcare, migrants are left alone with their illnesses. How can we close eyes to those who cannot afford a doctor?
•Educational barriers: Children of those awaiting extensions often cannot attend public school. This becomes an additional financial burden and makes a bad impact on their future and takes away their right to learn and to dream.
•Emotional collapse: Uncertainty, fear, and financial hardship erode mental health, leaving people in despair.
The Government of Canada promises improvements but so far, they are just promises.
Activists are calling for urgent action:
-Automatically extend work permits
-Hire more staff to process applications
-Simplify regulations and create pathways to legal status for those who have already become part of this country
This is not just about politics, it’s about humanity.
Every day of delay is someone’s shattered hope.
It all reminded me of the definition of a crime: it is an act that causes harm to another’s physical or mental health as well as INACTION that leads to the same.
I accuse Canada of inaction…
Oleksandra Melnykova, Immigration and Refugee Consultant in Canada.
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