December 10th, 2024 at 07:18 am

2025 IRCC Open Work Permit Policy: Complete Guide to Canada Work Permits

Great news for those who have submitted an Expression of Interest (EOI) to Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon! Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has launched a new policy to simplify the process for foreign workers to obtain an open work permit (OWP). This policy specifically targets foreign workers who have applied through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

The new policy will remain in effect until December 31, 2024. The open work permit can be valid for up to two years if granted. To qualify, foreign workers already in Alberta, Manitoba, or Yukon must have signed a letter of intent with IRCC.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for the open work permit, applicants must meet specific criteria. They must either hold a valid work permit or have had one that expired after May 7, 2024. If their work permit has expired, they should have applied for restoration of their status. Additionally, applicants whose work permit extension is pending or has been approved can also apply.

Required Documentation

Applicants must provide essential documents to support their applications. First, they need a letter of employment from their current employer in a province or territory that has signed the letter of intent agreement with IRCC. They must also obtain an OWP support letter from their provincial or territorial government. This letter confirms their placement in the EOI pool or another PNP.

Status and Application Process

To maintain eligibility, applicants must remain in Canada. They should either hold temporary resident status or be in the process of restoring it when a decision is made under this new policy. If a foreign national leaves Canada before the decision, they will lose their temporary resident status.

Consequently, they will need to restart the application process. IRCC will verify the applicant’s status before granting the open work permit. It is crucial to remember that applicants must submit their applications online. In-person applications at the Canadian border are not accepted under this new OWP policy.

Required Documents

Applicants must gather several basic documents for their application. These include:

• A passport ID page.
• A digital photo taken within the last six months.
• A support letter from a provincial or territorial government.
• A copy of their current or expired work permit.
• A letter from their current employer.

Additional documents may also be required, depending on individual circumstances. The specific documents needed will vary based on the applicant’s situation.

Work Permit Validity and Fees

If granted, the open work permit will be valid until December 31, 2024. The maximum duration is two years, or until the applicant’s passport expires, whichever comes first. Please note that the work permit cannot be extended beyond the two-year maximum validity period.

The fees for the OWP application are as follows:

• $155 for the work permit application.
• $229 for restoration of status (if you need to restore your status as a worker, you will need to pay for the work permit in addition to the restoration fees).
• $85 for biometrics (if applicable).

Spouses and Dependent Children

If the applicant is approved for the work permit, their spouse or common-law partner can also apply for an open work permit. Furthermore, dependent children in kindergarten through grade 12 may apply for a study permit to attend school in Canada. If they are already living in Canada, they can attend school without a study permit.

Eligibility for spouses and dependents will depend on the applicant’s current employment in Canada.

Application Deadline

Under this new public policy, you have until December 31, 2024, to apply for an open work permit. This policy presents a significant opportunity for foreign workers seeking to establish their careers in Canada.

Further Thoughts

The 2025 IRCC Open Work Permit Policy offers a streamlined path for foreign workers in Canada. With clear eligibility criteria and essential documentation, applicants can navigate the process more easily. This policy benefits individual workers and supports the Canadian economy by filling labor shortages in various sectors.

If you meet the qualifications, take advantage of this opportunity to apply for the open work permit. The chance to work in Canada awaits you!

Steps to Apply for a Work Permit Extension or Amendment

To extend or amend your work permit, follow these steps:

• Gather Required Documents: Collect and scan all necessary documents.
• Review the Instruction Guide: Visit the IRCC office website for guidance. This will help you complete your application accurately.
• Complete the Online Questionnaire: Fill out the online questionnaire available on the website. Upon completion, you will receive a document checklist.
• Pay the Application Fee: The fee varies based on the type of work permit. Generally, the fee for a work permit is around $155, while the fee for an open work permit holder is about $100.
• Track Your Application Status: After paying the fees, monitor your application status online.

As you await a decision, you can remain in Canada under the same conditions as your current work permit. This status is referred to as “maintained status” or “applied status.” If your application is approved, you will receive an updated work permit reflecting the new conditions or an extended validity period.

Alternatives if Your Work Permit is Not Extended

If your work permit is not extended or amended, several alternatives may be available:

Permanent Residency

Consider applying for permanent residency. The Express Entry system evaluates candidates based on work experience, education, and language skills. Alternatively, explore Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that match your qualifications with provincial demands.

Switch to a Study Permit

If eligible, transitioning to a study permit allows you to remain in Canada. Studying can enhance your language skills and help you build a local network.

Apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

If you have applied for permanent residency, you may qualify for a BOWP. This permit allows you to stay employed while waiting for a decision. It provides stability during your transition and ensures you maintain valid status in Canada.

Leave Canada and Reapply

In some cases, you may need to leave Canada and submit a new work permit application from abroad. While this option can be challenging, it ensures your application complies with current guidelines.