Some PNP Candidates Can Now Apply for Open Work Permit

Who qualifies under this new policy?

According to this new policy, some Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) candidates may apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) if they meet certain qualifications:

Scenario 1: The foreign national's work permit was valid on May 7, 2024, but it has since expired.

Apart from possessing a valid work permit, a foreign individual can apply for this policy if they meet the following requirements:

• Applied for a new work permit under Regulation 200 and for permission to stay in Canada as temporary residents under Sections 181 and 182.
• Applicants must include a letter of support from the relevant provincial or territorial government, verifying their placement in the Expression of Interest pool or application inventory procedure under the relevant Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and a letter of employment from their current workplace.

Scenario 2: The foreign national's work permit application is either pending or approved, and on May 7, 2024, they were granted permission to work under paragraph 186 (u) of the Regulations.

To be eligible under this policy, a foreign national must hold a previously valid work permit and have an application for a new one under process:

• Submitted applications for a fresh work permit under Regulation 200 and an extension of authorization to stay in Canada as a temporary resident under section 181 of the regulations.
• In support of the applications, included a letter of support from the provincial or territorial authority and a letter of employment from the current workplace.
  
  

Scenario 3: The foreign national is currently on a valid work permit.

To be eligible for this policy, a foreign national must have a valid work permit and:

• Applied an application for a new work permit under section 200 of the Regulations
• A letter of support from the applicable Provincial or Territorial authority confirming participation in the PNP's Expression of Interest pool or application inventory procedure
• A letter of employment from the existing job.
  
  

Why is this policy being pursued by IRCC?

The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to balance the ratio of temporary residents to permanent residents in Canada by helping provinces transition qualified temporary residents through their Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). This new strategy will help retain skilled workers and provide a clearer path to permanent residency.

Check if you qualify to migrate to Canada. Check out our Settlement Resources to learn how to find employment in Canada, making your initial days stress-free, etc.