IRCC Introduces Open Work Permit Options for PNP Candidates

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched a new temporary policy, offering certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates the opportunity to apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP). This policy, effective from August 11, 2024, until December 31, 2024, aims to support the transition of eligible temporary residents to permanent residency, addressing Canada’s labor market needs.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the OWP under this new policy, candidates must meet specific conditions based on their current immigration status. The scenarios are outlined below:

Scenario 1: Current Work Permit Holders

• Must hold a valid work permit.
• Must have applied for a new work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
• Required documentation includes:
  • A support letter from the Provincial or Territorial authority confirming placement in an Expression of Interest pool or application inventory process.
  • A letter of employment from the current employer.

Scenario 2: Expired Work Permit Holders

• Must have held a valid work permit on May 7, 2024, which has since expired.
• Must have applied for:
  • A new work permit under section 200.
  • An extension of temporary resident status under section 181, or restoration of status under section 182.
• Required documentation includes:
  • A support letter from the Provincial or Territorial authority.
  • A letter of employment from the current employer.

Scenario 3: Pending Work Permit Extension Applicants

• Must have been authorized to work under paragraph 186(u) of the Regulations on May 7, 2024, with a pending or approved extension application.
• Required documentation includes:
  • Applications for a new work permit and an extension of temporary resident status.
  • A support letter from the Provincial or Territorial authority.
  • A letter of employment from the current employer.

In addition to these criteria, candidates must meet other legislative eligibility and admissibility requirements.

The primary goal of this policy is to recalibrate the ratio of temporary to permanent residents in Canada. By offering skilled workers already contributing to the Canadian economy a clearer path to permanent residency, IRCC aims to retain talent that has demonstrated potential and formed community ties. This approach supports labor market stability and the broader immigration objectives of the Canadian government.

This new OWP policy provides a significant opportunity for eligible PNP candidates to continue working in Canada while awaiting permanent residency. With the policy set to expire on December 31, 2024, it is crucial for interested candidates to apply promptly to benefit from this pathway.