Learn about the new Open Work Permit policy that the IRCC has for EOI applicants in Manitoba, Yukon, and Alberta. Apply for a two-year permit by December 31, 2024. Find out if you qualify now!

Exciting Updates for Foreign Workers in Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon

A new policy has been announced by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) with the goal of making it easier for foreign workers to apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada. This program is exclusively for people who have applied for a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) by submitting an Expression of Interest (EOI). Successful candidates will be granted a work visa that is good for a maximum of two years, and the policy will remain in place until December 31, 2024.

Eligibility Criteria

In order to be eligible for an OWP under this policy, candidates need to fulfil the following requirements:

1. Work Permit Status:

– Possess a current work permit.

– Possess a work permit that has expired after May 7, 2024, and have applied for restoration.

– Own a work permit extension, either granted or pending.

2. Required Documentation:

– A letter of employment from a current Yukon, Manitoba, or Alberta employer.

– A letter of OWP endorsement from the provincial or territorial government attesting to their inclusion in a PNP or EOI pool.

Application Process and Conditions

1. Residency Requirements:

To keep their status as temporary residents, applicants must stay in Canada while their applications are being reviewed. Their status will be nullified and they will need to reapply if they leave Canada before a decision is made.

2. Submission Guidelines:

Online applications are required. Submissions made in person, even at the border, are not accepted.

Documents Checklist

The following paperwork should be ready for submission by applicants:

– Page with the passport ID (valid and readable).

– Digital image that was taken little more than six months ago.

– The provincial or territory government’s letter of support.

– A copy of a work permit, either valid or expired.

– letter from the employer you now work for.

– Depending on the specific circumstances of each candidate, additional documentation might be needed.

Permit Validity and Associated Costs

1. Validity: The OWP will remain valid for a maximum of two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, if it is accepted.

2. Fees:

– Application for Work Permit: $155
– Status restoration, if applicable: $229
– Biometrics: $85 if necessary

Family Benefits

Spouses or common-law partners of approved applicants may also submit an application for an open work visa. Children in kindergarten through grade 12 who are dependents may:

– Request a study permission,

– Without a permit, go to school if you’re already in Canada.

Act Now: Policy Deadline Approaching

The deadline for submitting an application for an Open Work Permit under the new IRCC policy is December 31, 2024. Please get in touch if you need help or want to verify your eligibility. To benefit from this program, make sure your application is complete and filed on time.