Thousands in immigration limbo as Canada’s largest public sector strike enters third week
- The industrial action has affected everyone from refugee claimants to sponsored relatives, migrant workers to foreign students
- About 155,000 federal public servants have been on strike since April 19 – wages are the sticking point as well as remote work
As Canada’s largest strike by federal workers approaches its third week, thousands of people are in immigration limbo amid cancelled hearings and stalled applications, which could make it harder for the country to compete for global talent as employers face a tight labour market.
About 155,000 federal public servants have been on strike since April 19. While wages are a primary sticking point, the union also wants remote work included in its collective agreement.
The strike has affected everyone from refugee claimants whose hearings are cancelled to sponsored relatives stuck in limbo, from migrant workers to foreign students, lawyers said.
Canada has raised its immigration target to record-setting levels and hopes to bring in 500,000 new permanent residents a year by 2025 to help ease labour shortages in industries from construction to healthcare. Canada’s lower birth rate makes immigration a key driver of economic growth.
Some would-be newcomers are left waiting abroad; others are left wondering whether their permit will expire. Some employers are without needed staff. People waiting on passports cannot travel.
