Start-Up Visa Optional Open Work Permit

Start-Up Visa Optional Open Work Permit

As of October 3, 2024, significant changes to the Start-Up Visa Program in Canada have introduced the option for an open work permit for candidates who have applied for permanent residence under this program. This development allows entrepreneurs to work for almost any employer in Canada while simultaneously developing their start-up.

Key Features of the Open Work Permit

  • Duration: The open work permit is valid for up to three years, a substantial increase from the previous one-year limit associated with employer-specific permits.
  • Employment Flexibility: This permit allows candidates to work for their own start-up as well as for other employers, providing the opportunity to supplement their income while establishing their business.
  • Eligibility Requirements:
    • Applicants must have applied for permanent residence through the Start-Up Visa Program.
    • They must have received an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter confirming their application.
    • If part of an entrepreneurial team, they must be deemed an essential member and plan to reside outside Quebec.
    • Candidates must demonstrate that their business will provide a significant economic benefit to Canada.

Application ProcessTo apply for the optional open work permit, candidates need to follow these steps:

  1. Prepare Required Documents:
    • Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) letter.
    • Letter of support from a designated entity.
    • Proof of sufficient funds to support themselves and their family, as well as separate funds to start their business.
    • Medical examination results and a police certificate if required.
  2. Submit Application Online:
    • Applications must be submitted online, requiring electronic copies of all documents and a valid payment method (credit or debit card).
    • Candidates should complete the appropriate forms, including IMM 1295 for work permits and IMM 5710 if extending or changing conditions.
  3. Fee Structure:
    • The application processing fee is $155, and if applicable, an employer compliance fee of $230.

Refund PolicyIf candidates withdraw their application before processing begins, they may receive a refund for:

  • The work permit processing fee ($155).
  • The employer compliance fee ($230) if they withdraw the employment offer submitted through the Employer Portal.

Refund requests can take up to eight weeks to process.Important Considerations

  • Applicants who submitted a closed work permit application prior to October 3, 2024, can still apply for the new open work permit by submitting a new application. They can withdraw their previous application without negatively impacting their permanent residence status.
  • There are still some uncertainties regarding whether withdrawing a pending application will affect an applicant’s status or position in the processing queue.

This open work permit represents a crucial step in supporting entrepreneurs in Canada by allowing them additional income opportunities while they establish their businesses.

 

 

W3C validator
Copyright @ 2020, LIFETIME IMMIGRATION designed by ZOOM WEB MEDIA. All Rights Reserved.