During their stay in Quebec, many temporary foreign workers (TFWs) wonder whether they can change employers and under what conditions this is possible. At InfoTET by Immigrant Québec, we provide clear and useful information to help you better understand this process.
Respecting your employment contract
If you hold a closed work permit, you are tied to a specific employer. This means you must respect the conditions outlined in your employment contract. However, this does not prevent you from assessing your work situation or exploring other job opportunities.
Can you look for another job?
Yes. You have the right to look for a new job while continuing to work for your current employer.
It is important to know that your employer cannot:
- penalize you for looking for another job
- threaten you, for example, with deportation
These types of practices are not allowed.
Leaving before the end of your contract
If your employment contract has a fixed term and you decide to leave your job before it ends, certain consequences may apply.
In some cases, your employer may request financial compensation for early termination of the contract. It is therefore recommended to carefully review your contract before making a decision.
Conditions for changing employers
Changing employers is not automatic. Certain administrative steps must be followed:
- The new employer must obtain authorization from the Government of Canada to hire you as a temporary foreign worker
- You must apply for a new work permit before starting your new job
Without completing these steps, you are not legally allowed to work for another employer.
Special case: SAWP workers
Workers under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP), particularly those from Mexico and the Caribbean, may in some cases change employers without applying for a new work permit.
Conditions may vary depending on the situation, so it is important to seek accurate information.
Before changing employers: prioritize dialogue
Before taking steps to change jobs, it is recommended to try to reach an agreement with your current employer. Communication is key, and discussing the situation may help find solutions.
If this is not successful, mediation services are available to help both parties reach an agreement.
Need legal information?
If you have questions or would like to better understand your options, you can contact Justice Pro Bono, an organization that is part of the Migrant Workers Support Program (PSTM).
This service is free and available in Spanish, French, and English.
Contact:
Phone: +1 866 999-4881
WhatsApp: +1 438 337-6002
Check our InfoTET guide
For more complete and detailed information about your rights and responsibilities as a temporary foreign worker, you can consult the InfoTET guide by Immigrant Québec.
This guide is available in several languages to make it accessible: French, English, Spanish, and Tagalog.
At InfoTET by Immigrant Québec, our goal is to provide reliable information to help you make informed decisions throughout your work experience in Quebec.
