On May 26, 2023, Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), announced new measures to strengthen family reunification and address the labour shortage issue. The measures include faster processing times, new tools, and an open work permit for spousal and family class applicants. Additionally, open work permit holders expiring between August 1 and the end of 2023 can extend their permits. These changes will allow families to be reunited sooner while waiting for permanent residence. Most of these applications will be processed within 30 days, and specific processing measures will be implemented for spouses and dependents. So far, the new tools have resulted in a 93% approval rate for applicants.
