IRCC Updates on Marine Transportation Workers Under the IMP - July 18, 2025
On July 18, 2025, IRCC released significant updates to the International Mobility Program (IMP) concerning marine transportation workers, aligning with global standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and International Labour Organization (ILO). These changes aim to streamline immigration processes, enhance worker protections, and support Canada’s maritime industry, a vital component of its economy.
The IMP facilitates the entry of foreign workers into Canada without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and the marine transportation sector has long benefited from its flexibility. The updated policies focus on seafarers, ship officers, and other maritime professionals, addressing labor shortages, safety compliance, and worker welfare. A primary change is the introduction of streamlined work permit processes for seafarers designated as "key workers" under the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006). This designation, reaffirmed by the ILO in April 2025, ensures visa-free shore leave and expedited repatriation, allowing seafarers to enter Canada for short-term assignments or transit with fewer bureaucratic hurdles. IRCC has clarified that these workers can apply for open work permits under the IMP’s C61 category, prioritizing those with credentials aligned with the Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW).
Another significant update is the emphasis on compliance with international labor standards. Canada, a key IMO member, has integrated MLC amendments into its IMP framework, mandating that employers provide evidence of fair wages, adequate accommodations, and access to medical care for marine workers. This aligns with Transport Canada’s anticipated Marine Safety Management System Regulations, set for publication in mid-2025, which expand safety protocols for vessels. IRCC now requires employers to submit Seafarer Employment Agreements (SEAs) during work permit applications, ensuring transparency and adherence to ILO standards. This move addresses past concerns about exploitation, particularly for workers on foreign-flagged vessels operating in Canadian waters.
The updates also support Canada’s push for gender equality and inclusivity in the maritime sector. Following a 2024 IMO workshop hosted by Canada to boost women’s representation, IRCC has introduced incentives under the IMP, such as priority processing for female maritime professionals and those from underrepresented groups. This aligns with Canada’s Oceans Protection Plan and IMO Gender Equality Network (IMOGen) initiatives, fostering diversity in a traditionally male-dominated field.
For workers, these changes mean faster access to Canadian ports and enhanced protections, but challenges remain. Smaller shipping companies may struggle with the administrative burden of compliance, and IRCC’s reliance on digital tools for application processing could pose issues for workers in remote regions. Additionally, while the updates support Canada’s net-zero emissions goals by prioritizing workers trained in low-carbon fuel technologies, the transition may require further training investments.
These IRCC updates reflect Canada’s commitment to balancing economic needs with global maritime standards. By facilitating the entry of skilled marine workers while enforcing robust protections, Canada strengthens its role as a leader in maritime safety and sustainability.
