Ontario Premier Doug Ford has reversed his recent pledge to issue provincial work permits to asylum seekers, a responsibility currently managed by the federal government. Ford did not provide an explanation for the shift but emphasized the need for faster access to work for those who are healthy and able.
Last week, Ford and other premiers had called for more provincial control over immigration. Ford referenced Alberta Premier Danielle Smith’s interpretation of Section 95 of the Constitution, suggesting provinces could act independently. He also criticized the federal timeline, claiming that some asylum seekers wait up to two years for a work permit.
However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada clarified that work permits for asylum claimants are typically processed within 45 days of submitting a complete application, including a medical exam and updated address.
Despite his change in position, Ford maintains that delays are too long, citing a gap between the 90,000 asylum claimants in Ontario and the 70,000 work permits issued last year.
Federal officials affirmed that immigration is a shared jurisdiction and emphasized ongoing collaboration with provinces to determine future immigration levels for 2026 to 2028.
Opposition Leader Marit Stiles criticized Ford for focusing on federal matters rather than addressing provincial issues such as healthcare and infrastructure.
