Public Service Alliance of Canada
The Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) is a union that represents over 159,000 public servants. These employees provide a range of services for the public in Canada. The PSAC declared a general strike on April 19, 2023. As a result, many government services will face delays and service disruptions.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will be impacted by this strike as many employees are part of this union. This means that many services such as processing applications, interviews, citizenship ceremonies and responses from IRCC will be affected. During this time, you can expect delays in the processing of applications for all streams such as permanent residence, citizenship, study permits and work permits.
Services Maintained
Despite disruptions in services related to Canadian immigration, the following IRCC services will still be maintained:
1. Submitting online applications
2. Mailing applications to IRCC
3. Using online accounts
4. Some emergency services
These services offered by non-governmental organizations are still available:
1. Settlement services from IRCC partner organizations
2. Health care through the Interim Federal Health Program
3. Visa application centres outside of Canada
PSAC Strike
The PSAC strike is in response to the union's demands for for accommodations such as higher wages, more inclusivity and better work-life balance.
We are unsure at this time how long the strike will last. The federal government and union will have to negotiate a deal which satisfy both parties.
If you have any questions about coming to Canada, feel free to book a consultation by clicking the image below or visit the IRCC website.
