IRCC Launches Open Work Permit Option for Select PNP Candidates: What You Need to Know
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a new temporary policy allowing certain candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) to apply for an open work permit (OWP). This new policy aims to streamline the process for eligible individuals seeking to work in Canada while awaiting the next steps in their PNP application.
Eligible candidates include those with a job offer, a valid work permit, or a work permit that expired on or after May 7, 2024. Additionally, these individuals must possess a support letter from their province or territory confirming their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or other relevant application processes after an initial assessment.
This policy, effective from August 11, 2024, will run until December 31, 2024, though IRCC notes that it may be revoked without prior notice at any time.
Who Qualifies for the New Open Work Permit Policy?
Candidates under this temporary policy must meet specific criteria, depending on their current status in Canada.
Scenario 1: Currently Holding a Valid Work Permit
To be eligible, individuals in this group must:
Have applied for a new work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations;
Provide a support letter from the appropriate provincial or territorial authority, confirming placement in the PNP process; and
Submit a letter of employment from their current employer.
Scenario 2: Expired Work Permit (Expired After May 7, 2024)
In this scenario, candidates must:
Have held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, and since applied for a new work permit under section 200;
Submit applications for a temporary resident extension or restoration of their status;
Provide a support letter and employment letter as required by their province or territory.
Scenario 3: Pending Work Permit Extension
For those with a pending work permit extension as of May 7, 2024, eligibility requires:
Applications for both a new work permit and a temporary resident extension;
A support letter confirming placement in the PNP process and a letter of employment.
To fully understand the specific eligibility conditions, candidates are encouraged to visit the IRCC website.
Why is IRCC Introducing This Policy?
The goal of this policy is to help provinces and territories retain skilled workers by offering a clear path to permanent residency for temporary residents already contributing to Canada’s economy. Many candidates have spent time working in Canada, demonstrating their potential to contribute to the country's labor market and build lasting community ties. IRCC aims to facilitate the transition from temporary to permanent residency, addressing critical labor shortages across various industries.
If you're navigating the immigration process and want access to legal support, immilang.com is a reliable platform where you can connect with certified immigration agents. They can guide you through the complexities of policies like this and help you explore your options for work permits and permanent residency.