In a significant move, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a temporary policy that allows select Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates to apply for an open work permit (OWP). This policy, effective from August 11th, 2024, and running until December 31st, 2024, provides eligible individuals with greater flexibility to work in Canada while their permanent residency applications are processed.
To qualify under this policy, candidates must meet specific conditions, including having a job offer and either a valid work permit or one that expired on or after May 7th, 2024. Additionally, they need a support letter from the province or territory where they reside, confirming their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or application inventory process after an initial assessment.
Eligibility under the policy falls into three primary scenarios:
- Valid Work Permit Holders: Foreign nationals who currently hold a valid work permit must have submitted an application for a new work permit, accompanied by a support letter from their province or territory and a letter of employment from their current employer.
- Expired Work Permit Holders (as of May 7, 2024): Those whose work permit expired after May 7, 2024, must have applied for a new work permit, temporary resident extension, or restoration of status, along with the necessary support letter and employment documentation.
- Pending or Approved Extension: Candidates who had the authorization to work under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations on May 7, 2024, and have a pending or approved work permit extension, must also provide the relevant support letter and employment information.
IRCC’s goal with this policy is to facilitate the transition of temporary residents to permanent residency, helping provinces and territories retain skilled workers who are already contributing to the Canadian economy. This approach aims to address critical labor market needs and provide candidates with a clearer path to becoming permanent residents.
The policy, however, may be revoked without prior notice, so interested individuals are encouraged to act quickly.
For more information on eligibility, visit IRCC’s official website.