WORK PERMIT UPDATE FOR TRANSPORTATION WORKER 2025

📅 Announcement dated July 18, 2025

The Government of Canada has released important updates regarding foreign nationals seeking to work temporarily in the transportation sector, especially those working on ships, airplanes, long-haul trucks, or trains.

✅ What’s new?

Canada has clarified that:
Some transportation workers may be allowed to work in Canada without a work permit – but not everyone qualifies. Depending on the specific role and context, you may be exempt or you may need to apply for a work permit.

👷 Who is covered under this update?

– Marine workers: crew members, captains, marine engineers
– Service staff or performers on cruise ships
– Pilots and flight attendants
– International truck drivers (cross-border transportation)
– Train conductors and railway personnel

⚠️ Why does this matter?

Many people assumed that “in-transit” jobs or onboard roles were automatically exempt from needing a work permit. That’s no longer a safe assumption. The government has now provided detailed guidance with specific examples clarifying:

– Which situations are exempt from a work permit
– Which require an application under either the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the International Mobility Program (IMP)

This helps prevent application refusals and opens new opportunities for those with the right experience in the right roles.

💼 What does this mean for foreign workers?

If you:
– Work in the transportation industry (especially marine, aviation, or international trucking)
– Have hands-on, verifiable experience
– Can prove that your employment in Canada is temporary and legitimate

👉 You may be eligible to work in Canada, with or without a work permit, depending on your specific case.

Canada is also supporting specific projects that prioritize foreign skilled workers, such as the Seaspan ship retrofit project, where qualified foreign workers are being hired under special provisions (IMP, R205(a) – Canadian Interests).

🔍 Want to know if you qualify?

If you or someone you know works in one of these sectors and is considering working in Canada, SICON can assess your case and guide you step-by-step.

📩 Message us now for personalized advice.
📞 Or contact us directly for a 1-on-1 consultation with an immigration expert.

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