Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a new temporary policy that allows some prospective Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates to apply for an open work permit (OWP). This policy aims to help provinces and territories transition eligible temporary residents through their PNPs, providing a clearer pathway to permanent residency for skilled workers already meeting critical labor market needs in Canada.
Topics Discussed
- Eligibility Criteria for Open Work Permit
- Scenarios for Open Work Permit Eligibility
- Reasons Behind IRCC’s Policy
Eligibility Criteria for Open Work Permit
To be eligible for an OWP under this new policy, PNP candidates must have a job offer, a valid work permit, or a work permit that expired on or after May 7th. They must also possess a support letter from the province or territory where they reside, confirming their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or other application inventory process after an initial assessment by the province or territory.
** Willing to migrate to Canada? V&I will guide you in step by step process.
Scenarios for Open Work Permit Eligibility
The policy outlines three scenarios in which PNP candidates may be eligible for an OWP:
- Holding a valid work permit and having submitted an application for a new work permit
- Holding a previously valid work permit that expired on or after May 7, 2024, and having submitted applications for a new work permit and an extension or restoration of temporary resident status
- Being authorized to work under paragraph 186 (u) of the Regulations on May 7, 2024, and having a pending or approved application for a work permit extension
** Check your eligibility to Canada with V&I Canada CRS Points Calculator for free.
Reasons Behind IRCC’s Policy
IRCC is pursuing this policy to adjust the ratio of temporary residents to permanent residents in Canada. By helping provinces and territories transition eligible temporary residents through their PNPs, the department aims to retain skilled workers already meeting critical labor market needs and provide them with a clearer pathway to permanent residency.
** Want to work in Canada? V&I is here to help you.
Conclusion
The introduction of this new temporary policy by IRCC offers an opportunity for some prospective PNP candidates to apply for an OWP. By meeting the eligibility criteria and falling under one of the outlined scenarios, these candidates can potentially secure a clearer path to permanent residency in Canada. This policy demonstrates IRCC’s commitment to retaining skilled workers and addressing critical labor market needs while providing a more streamlined immigration process.
For more updates on Canadian immigration, sign up for our newsletter today.
