IRCC introduces open work permit options for PNP applicants. The public policy will enable eligible newcomers to obtain an open work permit (OWP), a valid work permit, or a work permit that expires on or after May 7. These individuals must also possess a support letter from the province or territory where they reside. 

This new temporary policy is effective as of August 11, 2024, and will remain in place until December 31, 2024, though IRCC notes that it might be revoked at any time without prior notice. 

Who Is Eligible Under This New Policy? 

IRCC introduces open work permit options for PNP applicants. Under this new policy, certain PNP applicants might also be able to apply for an OWP, if they meet the associated conditions for one of the following scenarios. 

Note: The word ‘regulations’ below refers to Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulation. 

Scenario 1: The Foreign National Presently Holds A Valid Work Permit 

In addition to holding a valid work permit, to be eligible for this policy a foreign national should: 

  • Have submitted an application for a new work permit under section 200 of the Regulations
  • Have provided with their application: 
  • A support letter from the relevant Provincial or Territorial authority that has signed an agreement with IRCC confirming their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or the authority’s application inventory process under the relevant PNP
  • A letter of employment from their present employer 

Scenario 2: The Foreign National Held A Valid Work Permit On May 7, 2024, Which Has Since Expired

Along with holding a previously valid work permit, to be eligible for this policy a foreign national must: 

  • Have submitted applications for: 
  • A new work permit under section 200 of the Regulations
  • An extension of their authorization to remain in the country as a temporary resident under section 181 of the Regulations, or restoration of their temporary resident status under section 182
  • Have provided with their application: 
  • A support letter from the relevant Provincial or Territorial authority has signed an agreement with IRCC – confirming their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or the authority’s application inventory process under the relevant PNP
  • A letter of employment from their current employer

Scenario 3: The Foreign National Was Authorized To Work Under Paragraph 186(u) of the Regulations on May 7, 2024, and Their Work Permit Extension Application Is Pending/ Approved 

Along with holding a previously valid work permit and having an application for a new one presently in process, to be eligible for this policy a foreign national must: 

  • Have submitted applications for: 
  • A new work permit under section 200 of the Regulations 
  • An extension of their authorization to remain in the country as a temporary resident under section 181 of the Regulations
  • Have provided with their application
  • A support letter from the relevant Provincial or Territorial authority has signed an agreement with IRCC – confirming their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or the authority’s application inventory process under the relevant PNP
  • A letter of employment from their current employer

Applicants must also meet the associated criteria for the above conditions to be eligible for this policy. 

Why Is IRCC Pursuing This Policy? 

IRCC introduces open work permit options for PNP applicants. IRCC aims to adjust the ratio of temporary residents to permanent residents in Canada by helping provinces and territories transition eligible temporary residents through their PNPs. Many applicants for these programs are already among Canada’s temporary residents. Moreover, they have used their time in this status to prove their economic potential and build community connections. 

The department states that it hopes this approach will help retain skilled workers already meeting critical labor market needs in Canada and provide them with a clearer pathway to permanent residency.    

If you seek information on how to begin your Canada immigration application process, you can talk to our NavaImmigration experts at 1800-918-8490. You can even drop us an email at [email protected].