Canada Extends Open Work Permits for PNP Candidates 2025

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced an extension of open work permits (OWPs) for provincial nominee candidates. This temporary public policy allows eligible foreign nationals to receive OWPs valid for up to two years.

To qualify, candidates must hold a valid profile in an expression of interest (EOI) pool from a participating province or territory. Additionally, they need a support letter from that province or territory, alongside other requirements.

Who Is Eligible for an OWP?

To apply for an OWP under this public policy, you must:

• Provide a letter of employment from your current employer.
• Submit a support letter from the province or territory where you live and work.

Currently, three provinces have implemented this policy and begun issuing support letters:

1. Alberta: Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
2. Manitoba: Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
3. Yukon: Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)

Exemptions Under This Policy

This temporary public policy offers exemptions for applicants in specific situations. For example, you may be exempt from:

• Applying for restoration of temporary resident status within 90 days of losing it.
• Being disqualified for a work permit due to unauthorized work or non-compliance with work conditions.

Obtaining a Provincial or Territorial Support Letter

To apply for an OWP, you first need a support letter from a PNP participating in this public policy. This letter confirms your status in an EOI pool. Each province has its process for issuing these letters, and they are issued at the discretion of provincial authorities.

Note that this policy is aimed at candidates under consideration for nomination, not those who have already applied.

Steps to Apply for an OWP

If you meet the eligibility criteria, follow these steps to apply for an OWP:

• Gather Required Documents: You will need a scanner or camera to create digital copies of your documents and a valid credit or debit card for fees.
• Review the Instruction Guide: Before filling out the application form, read the instruction guide carefully. It explains how to complete each field.
• Understand Your Fees: Most applications require processing fees for you and anyone included. Typical fees include:
  • Work permit fee: CAD 155
  • Open work permit holder fee: CAD 100
  • Restoration of status fee (if applicable): CAD 239.75
• Create an IRCC Secure Account: You must have an account to apply online. This account allows you to pay fees and check your application status.
• Obtain the Document Checklist: After signing in, answer questions to receive a personalized document checklist. If you use an Authorized Paid Representative, ensure you declare their involvement.
• Complete the Application Forms: Follow the checklist and fill out the application. Make sure to enter the correct provincial code in the required sections.
• Upload Required Documents: Upload documents specified in the checklist. Additional required documents include:
  • A copy of your valid passport
  • Family Information form (IMM 5707)
  • A digital photo
  • A support letter from your province
  • A copy of your current work permit (if applicable)
  • A letter of employment from your employer

Rationale for the Temporary Public Policy

This policy aims to support the federal government’s goal of reducing temporary residents as a percentage of Canada’s population. It provides work status to foreign nationals transitioning to permanent residence through PNPs.

Benefits of Open Work Permits

OWPs offer flexibility, allowing newcomers to work for various employers across most industries. Unlike employer-specific work permits, OWPs are not tied to a single job. This flexibility makes OWPs more appealing to newcomers compared to closed work permits.

In summary, this extension of OWPs is a significant opportunity for provincial nominee candidates in Canada.