IRCC Introduces Open Work Permit Policy for PNP Candidates

IRCC Introduces Open Work Permit Policy for PNP Candidates

Canada’s immigration landscape is evolving with the introduction of a new work permit public policy, introduced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), to allow certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates to apply for an open work permit. This policy, effective from August 11, 2024, will be ongoing until December 31, 2024.

The policy’s goal is to retain valuable talent that has already proven its potential to contribute economically and socially to Canadian society, while supporting the government’s broader initiative to recalibrate the temporary resident to permanent resident ratio in Canada.

Overview of the Policy

This public policy provides an expedited pathway for temporary residents supported by provincial or territorial authorities under a PNP. The policy specifically targets those holding valid work permits, recently expired work permits, and those authorized to work under paragraph 186(u) of the Regulations as of May 7, 2024. It aims to ensure that these temporary residents, who have had the opportunity to establish both economic and community roots in Canada, are given a more certain pathway to permanent residency.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify under this policy, and apply for an open work permit, foreign nationals must meet the following conditions, which are detailed to accommodate various scenarios:

1. For Current Work Permit Holders:

• Must hold a valid work permit.
• Should have applied for a new work permit under section 200 of the Regulations.
• Need to provide:
  • A support letter from the Provincial or Territorial authority where you reside. This letter must confirm that:
    • You have been screened and are either placed in an Expression of Interest pool or are part of the Provincial or Territorial authority’s application inventory under the Provincial Nominee Program.
  • A letter of employment from your current employer.

2. For Expired Work Permit Holders:

• Must have held a valid work permit as of May 7, 2024, but it has expired since then.
• Need to have applied for:
  • A new work permit under section 200 of the Regulations.
  • An extension of your temporary resident status under section 181 of the Regulations, or restoration of status under section 182 of the Regulations.
• Should provide:
  • A support letter from the Provincial or Territorial authority where you reside. This letter must confirm that:
    • You have been screened and are either placed in an Expression of Interest pool or are part of the Provincial or Territorial authority’s application inventory under the Provincial Nominee Program.
  • A letter of employment from your current employer.

3. For Work Permit Applicants Authorized Under Paragraph 186(u):

• Must have been authorized to work under paragraph 186(u) of the Regulations as of May 7, 2024, with your work permit extension application pending or approved.
• Need to have applied for:
  • A new work permit under section 200 of the Regulations.
  • An extension of your temporary resident status under section 181 of the Regulations.
• Should provide:
  • A support letter from the Provincial or Territorial authority where you reside. This letter must confirm that:
    • You have been screened and are either placed in an Expression of Interest pool or are part of the Provincial or Territorial authority’s application inventory under the Provincial Nominee Program.
  • A letter of employment from your current employer.

Other Admissibility and Selection Criteria

Foreign nationals eligible under this public policy are subject to all other legislative eligibility and admissibility requirements that are not exempted under this, or another, public policy. This ensures that while certain regulatory requirements are relaxed, the overall integrity of Canada’s immigration system is maintained.

Conclusion

This policy will provide a lifeline to certain PNP candidates in Canada who are awaiting a decision on their nomination application and whose work permits are expiring or have expired since May 7, 2024. Eligible applicants should act promptly to take advantage of this policy before its expiration at the end of the year.

Need Help Navigating Canada’s New Immigration Policies?

If you’re currently awaiting a decision on a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) application or are concerned about how this new policy might affect you, our team is here to support you. 

Schedule a personalized consultation with one of our immigration consultants to navigate these changes with confidence.

Our consultants will assess your unique situation, guide you through the application process, and ensure that you meet all the new regulatory requirements. 

Contact us today to book your consultation and secure your path to success in Canada.

The Team at Northern Connections Canada