4-In, 4-Out Rule for Work Permits

On April 1, many work permit holders who have worked in Canada for over 4 years may not be able to renew their work permits.  This is because the government implemented a regulation known as the “4-in, 4-out rule”.  Here’s how it works: 

• Most foreign workers who have worked in Canada for four years since April 1, 2011 will be unable to renew their work permits until 4 more years have passed. 
• Some work permits are exempt from the 4-in, 4-out rule:
  • Work permits for occupations under O and A NOC codes
  • Work permits under international agreements such as NAFTA
  • Intra-company transferee work permits
  • Bridging work permits
  • PNP work permits that are employer-specific
  • Some spousal work permits
  • Self-support and humanitarian work permits
  • Work permits under the SAWP
• Also, work that is done while a person is studying full-time does not count towards the 4 years of work for the 4-in, 4-out rule.
• Finally, if you’ve held work permits for 4 years since April 1, 2011 but have a gap in employment during these 4 years, you may be able to get an extension for the period of time in which you were not working.

To find out if the 4-in, 4-out rule applies to you and what you need to do to stay in Canada, contact us at (416) 548-9101, or at inquiries@www.lmlawgroup.com.