The federal government is extending temporary Employment Insurance measures aimed at supporting workers impacted by global trade disruptions and tariffs.

Jobs and Families Minister Patty Hajdu announced March 13th that three key measures introduced in 2025 will remain in place beyond April, with eligibility extended through October 2026.

Measures designed to ease financial strain

The extensions include waiving the one-week waiting period for EI benefits, allowing workers to receive payments immediately after a claim is approved.

The government will also continue suspending rules that require workers to first use severance or separation pay before accessing EI benefits.

In addition, long-tenured workers will remain eligible for up to 20 extra weeks of EI benefits if they need more time to find new employment.

Officials say the changes are intended to provide more timely and flexible support for workers facing job disruptions linked to tariffs.

Hundreds of thousands expected to benefit

The government estimates the extension will support more than 800,000 EI claims across Canada.

That includes approximately 632,000 claims benefiting from the waived waiting period, 136,000 from changes to separation pay rules and 43,500 long-tenured workers receiving extended benefits.

Broader response to economic uncertainty

The measures are part of a wider federal response to global economic instability, including ongoing tariff pressures.

Ottawa says additional supports, such as expanded Work-Sharing program access and a new Worker Retention Grant, are also helping businesses retain employees and reduce layoffs.

Since early 2025, about 1,500 Work-Sharing applications have been approved, supporting more than 54,000 workers.

Focus on workforce resilience

The federal government is also investing in training and workforce development through a $570-million initiative aimed at helping workers transition to new opportunities.

Hajdu said the EI extensions are a key part of ensuring Canadians have access to income support during uncertain times.

“The EI program remains a critical safety net, designed to be there when Canadians need it most,” she said.