On May 23, 2025, Canada Post workers will resume their strike, continuing the protest that began in November 2024.
The previous strike was paused on December 17, 2024, following intervention from the Canada Industrial Relations Board (CIRB), which ordered workers back to their jobs and extended the collective agreement until May 22, 2025.
Reasons for the Conflict
The key demands of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers (CUPW) include:
• A 24% wage increase over four years
• Improved medical benefits (including fertility treatment coverage and gender-affirming care)
• More paid breaks and sick leave
• Job protection from automation
Canada Post is offering a more modest increase (11.5% over four years), citing over $3 billion in losses since 2018 and more than $1 billion in debt.
How Will This Affect Temporary and Permanent Residents in Canada?
Temporary residents in Canada — including students, workers, and visitors — as well as newly landed permanent residents, may face significant disruptions:
• Delays in receiving documents from IRCC (visas, work and study permits, PR cards)
If you have travel plans outside of Canada, this could be a serious issue. Without a visa or valid permit, you may not be allowed to return to Canada.
If you recently received PR status and are waiting for your PR card but need to leave urgently, and you have a U.S. visa, you can re-enter Canada via a land border with your confirmation of permanent residence.
If you do not have a U.S. visa, you will need to apply for a travel document to return to Canada — and this can only be done from abroad.
• Issues with mailing applications such as TRP, corrections to documents, or certain extensions. If possible, use alternative delivery services such as Purolator, FedEx, or UPS.
• Delays in receiving SIN numbers, bank cards, and health insurance documents
Avoid online services if you can apply in person — in-person applications may be processed faster and picked up directly from the office.
Monitor updates on the Canada Post website — and take care of your peace of mind!
Marina Negrivoda, Canadian Licensed Immigration Consultant