What to do if you are stuck as a Temporary Resident in Canada

Being a Temporary Resident (TR) in Canada comes with many opportunities but also challenges, especially if you find yourself stuck or uncertain about your immigration status. Recent changes in the 2025 federal budget and updated Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) projections have reshaped what temporary residents can expect in the coming years. This guide provides clear, practical advice tailored for those stuck as temporary residents in Ontario or anywhere in Canada, emphasizing the importance of timely action and compliance. Recent Changes Impacting Temporary Residents The 2025 Canadian federal budget introduced significant reductions in the number of new temporary resident admissions, decreasing from approximately 673,650 in 2025 to about 385,000 in 2026, and around 370,000 in 2027 and 2028. This shift reflects the government’s effort to manage sustainable immigration levels while addressing infrastructure and integration concerns. However, it is not all downsizing. The government has committed to supporting temporary residents already here by introducing pathways to permanent residence for up to 33,000 work permit holders in 2026-2027, recognizing their contribution to the Canadian economy and communities. Additionally, accelerated permanent residence pathways are being offered for eligible Protected Persons, reflecting Canada’s ongoing commitment to humanitarian values. Dos and Don’ts If You Are Stuck as a Temporary Resident Dos: Don’ts: Positive Opportunities Amidst Challenges While the temporary resident intake targets have been reduced, the Canadian government has made a clear commitment to support temporary residents who contribute positively through work and community ties. The new programs accelerating permanent residence applications for eligible work permit holders provide a hopeful route to stability and longer-term security in Canada. Moreover, pathways for Protected Persons emphasize Canada’s dedication to protecting vulnerable individuals who cannot return safely to their home countries. As a temporary resident, this means there are pathways and support systems designed to help you navigate this period successfully. Final Thoughts If you find yourself stuck as a Temporary Resident in Canada, act swiftly to confirm and maintain your status. Ensure any expired status is restored promptly, always comply with your current conditions, and take advantage of new permanent residence pathways introduced in the latest federal budget. With proper guidance and timely action, temporary residents can protect their future and continue to contribute to Canada’s vibrant communities. For personalized advice tailored to your situation, consult with an experienced Ontario immigration lawyer who can help you understand your options and guide you through the application process. Useful Government Resources: This information is accurate as of November 2025 and reflects the latest IRCC policies and federal budget measures impacting temporary residents in Canada.

Understanding the Types of Work Permits in Canada: What Foreign Workers and Employers Need to Know

Canada’s robust economy and welcoming immigration policies make it an attractive destination for skilled professionals and employers. If you are considering working in Canada or hiring foreign talent, it is essential to understand the different types of Canadian work permits. This article provides a clear overview, relying exclusively on official Government of Canada information, and is written in accordance with the Law Society of Ontario’s (LSO) professional conduct requirements. Types of Canadian Work Permits 1. Employer-Specific Work Permit An employer-specific work permit (also known as a “closed” work permit) allows a foreign national to work in Canada for a particular employer, under specific conditions such as: Key Requirements: Who Should Apply:Foreign workers who have received a specific job offer from a Canadian employer, particularly when an LMIA is required. 2. Open Work Permit An open work permit allows the holder to work for almost any employer in Canada, except for those who are ineligible or offer certain adult services. Who is Eligible: Key Benefits:No job offer or LMIA is required to apply for an open work permit. Special Work Permit Programs Canada also offers several targeted programs and streams, including: Important Considerations How Ahlawat Law PC Can Assist Navigating Canada’s work permit system can be complex. Our experienced immigration lawyers can: Contact Us If you are considering working in Canada or hiring foreign talent, contact Ahlawat Law PC for a personalized consultation. We are committed to ensuring your application is compliant with the latest Canadian immigration laws and policies. All information in this article is sourced from the official Government of Canada website. Disclaimer: This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For advice regarding your specific situation, please consult a qualified immigration lawyer licensed by the Law Society of Ontario.

Charting your course to Canadian Citizenship: An Ahlawat Law PC guide

Becoming a Canadian citizen is a significant aspiration for many permanent residents, marking the final step in their journey to make Canada their permanent home. This esteemed status grants a host of rights and privileges, including the right to vote, hold a Canadian passport, and enjoy the security of full citizenship. At Ahlawat LAW PC, we are committed to providing clear and accurate information to help you navigate this important process. This guide draws directly from official Government of Canada sources to outline the steps and requirements for obtaining Canadian citizenship. Are You Eligible? Key Criteria from IRCC Before you begin your application, it’s essential to meet the eligibility criteria set out by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As per the official guidelines: Your Pathway to Citizenship: The Application Process The application process for Canadian citizenship involves several key steps, as outlined by IRCC: After You Apply: What to Expect Once IRCC receives your complete application: Processing Times According to the IRCC website, the general processing time for a routine citizenship application is approximately 10 months from the time a complete application is received. However, processing times can vary depending on factors such as the volume of applications, the complexity of your case, how easily IRCC can verify your information, and how quickly you respond to any requests from IRCC. You can check current processing times on the IRCC website. Why Choose Ahlawat LAW PC? Navigating the Canadian citizenship process can be intricate. While this guide provides an overview based on official information, individual circumstances can vary. Ahlawat LAW PC offers professional legal services to help you understand your eligibility, prepare a thorough and accurate application, and address any complexities that may arise. Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and procedures are subject to change. Please consult the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or contact Ahlawat Law PC for advice tailored to your specific situation.

The image depicts a warm and welcoming family reunion in Canada, with parents and grandparents visiting.

Welcoming your loved ones to Canada via Super Visa

At Ahlawat Law PC, we understand the deep desire to have your parents and grandparents join you in Canada for extended visits. The Super Visa is a fantastic program designed to make this a reality, allowing eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for up to five years at a time. It’s a visa that provides multiple entries and can be valid for up to 10 years. This blog post will delve into the key aspects of the Super Visa, helping you understand the eligibility requirements and the application process. What is the Super Visa? The Parent and Grandparent Super Visa is a special type of visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for a longer duration than a regular visitor visa. Instead of the usual six-month limit for most visitor visas, the Super Visa grants an initial stay of up to five years. This provides a wonderful opportunity for families to spend significant time together right here in Canada. Who is Eligible for a Super Visa? To be eligible for a Super Visa, both the applicant (the parent or grandparent) and the host (their child or grandchild in Canada) must meet certain criteria. Eligibility of the Applicant (Parent or Grandparent): Eligibility of the Host (Child or Grandchild in Canada): The Application Process: A General Overview The application process for a Super Visa generally involves these steps: Why Choose the Super Visa? The Super Visa offers significant advantages for Canadian families: Ahlawat Law PC: Your Trusted Partner in Family Reunification Navigating the intricacies of the Super Visa application can be challenging. At Ahlawat Law PC, our team is dedicated to providing you with the expert legal advice and support you need to successfully reunite with your parents and grandparents in Canada. We can assist you with: We deeply value the importance of family unity and are committed to guiding you through every step of the Super Visa process. Contact Ahlawat Law PC today for a consultation.

Is the Canadian Start-Up Visa Program Right for You? Understand the Eligibility Requirements

Canada’s Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program offers an exciting pathway to permanent residency for innovative entrepreneurs. At Ahlawat Law Professional Corporation, we understand that navigating the complexities of immigration can be daunting. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you understand the core eligibility requirements for the SUV program. Who Can Apply? The Start-Up Visa Program welcomes both individual applicants and groups of up to five co-owners. However, every applicant must meet specific criteria to qualify. Let’s break down the key requirements: 1. Have a Qualifying Business Your business idea is the heart of your application. To qualify, it must meet these conditions: 2. Obtain a Letter of Support from a Designated Organization A “designated organization” is a government-approved business group authorized to invest in or support promising start-ups. This support is crucial to your application. Important Note: Designated Organization Caps Be aware that each designated organization has a limit on the number of group applications they can support each year (10 complete applications). Applications are reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis. Apply early to avoid potential delays! This cap is in place until December 31, 2026. 3. Meet the Language Requirements Proficiency in either English or French is essential. You must demonstrate this by achieving a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level of 5 in listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Your language test results must come from an IRCC-approved testing agency. 4. Demonstrate Sufficient Settlement Funds The Canadian government will not provide financial support to Start-Up Visa immigrants. Therefore, you must prove that you have enough money to support yourself and your dependents upon arrival in Canada. The required amount depends on your family size and is updated annually. Importantly, you cannot borrow these funds.We recommend researching the cost of living in your intended destination in Canada and bringing as much money as possible to facilitate your move and initial settlement. Ahlawat Law: Your Partner in Navigating the Start-Up Visa Program The Start-Up Visa Program can be a life-changing opportunity. However, the application process requires careful preparation and attention to detail. At Ahlawat Law Professional Corporation, we have the expertise to guide you through every step, from assessing your eligibility to preparing a strong application. Considering the Start-Up Visa Program? Contact Ahlawat Law today for a consultation! Disclaimer This blog post provides general information only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and policies are subject to change. Consult with a qualified immigration lawyer for personalized guidance.