Open Work Permits for Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident Pathway Applicants

Overview

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended the temporary public policy for open work permits under the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) Pathway until December 31, 2026. This policy enables eligible foreign nationals and their family members to transition more smoothly to permanent residency by waiving certain work permit requirements.

Key Policy Updates

Policy Objectives

This policy is designed to:

• Help eligible foreign nationals in Canada secure open work permits.
• Promote family reunification by enabling eligible family members (in Canada and abroad) to apply for open work permits.

Eligibility Criteria

For Principal Applicants

Applicants must:

• Hold valid temporary resident status or be eligible for restoration.
• Have a work permit valid for four months or less (if applicable).
• Submit their open work permit application online under this policy.
• Meet the following conditions at the time of their permanent residence (PR) application:
• Held legal authorization to work in Canada.
• Demonstrated required language proficiency for their PR stream.
• Provided proof of employment.

For Family Members

Family members must:

• Be a spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child of the principal applicant.
• Be listed in the principal applicant’s PR application.
• Meet the age requirement (18 or older).
• Hold valid temporary resident status or be eligible for restoration (if in Canada).

Documentary Evidence Requirements

Work Permit Application Instructions

Language Requirements

Extensions and Renewals

Foreign workers with pending PR applications may extend their open work permits until December 31, 2026, provided they meet eligibility requirements.

Applicants must:

• Provide details of their existing open work permit.
• Follow updated application instructions.

Special Program Codes

IRCC has designated specific program codes for different streams to streamline processing:

Processing Overview

This policy enhances the transition to permanent residency while fostering family reunification through streamlined access to open work permits.