The Canadian government has launched a temporary public policy to simplify the process for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates to secure work permits. This initiative is designed to support skilled workers, making it easier for them to transition to permanent residency and help Canada retain talent in critical industries.

Temporary Public Policy to Facilitate Work Permits for PNP Candidates

Next Topics to Discuss:

• Who Is Eligible?
• What is Eligibility Criteria?
• Complete Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process
• Validity Period of Policy
• Key Benefits of Policy
• Conclusion

1. Who is Eligible?

• Foreign nationals in Canada who are candidates for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and meet specific eligibility criteria.
• Applicants must be:
  • Currently holding a valid work permit or have held one that expired on or after May 7, 2024.
  • In the process of applying for a new work permit or work permit extension.
  • Supported by the provincial or territorial authority where they reside, with confirmation of their placement in the PNP Expression of Interest (EOI) pool or application inventory.

2. What is Eligibility Criteria?

To qualify for an open work permit under this policy, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• For Foreign Nationals with a Valid or Expired Work Permit (as of May 7, 2024):
  • Hold a valid work permit or have had one that expired on or after May 7, 2024.
  • Apply for a new work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).
  • Provide a support letter from the provincial or territorial authority confirming placement in the PNP Expression of Interest (EOI) pool or application inventory.
  • Provide a letter of employment from the current employer.
• For Foreign Nationals with an Expired Work Permit (Before May 7, 2024):
  • Submit an application for a new work permit and request restoration or extension of temporary resident status under section 181 or 182 of the IRPR.
  • Provide a support letter and letter of employment from the employer.
• For Foreign Nationals Authorized to Work Under Paragraph 186(u) (as of May 7, 2024):
  • Apply for a new work permit and extension of temporary resident status.
  • Provide a support letter from the province/territory and a letter of employment.

3. Complete Step-by-Step Guide to the Application Process

• Submit an application for a new work permit under section 200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR).
• If the work permit expired before May 7, 2024, apply for temporary resident status restoration under section 181 or 182 of the IRPR.
• Submit a support letter from the provincial or territorial authority confirming the applicant's place in the PNP EOI pool or application inventory.
• Provide a letter of employment from the current employer.
• Submit applications directly to IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada).

4. Validity Period of Policy

• The policy is effective immediately upon signing and will apply to applications received on or after the effective date.
• The policy is valid until December 31, 2024.
• The policy may be revoked at any time without prior notice.

5. Benefits

• Open work permits: Eligible candidates can work for any employer in Canada, providing flexibility and security.
• Streamlined pathway to permanent residency: For skilled workers already in Canada.
• Retention of foreign talent: The policy helps Canada retain skilled workers who are already contributing to the labor market.
• Support from provinces and territories: Provinces/territories provide letters of support, confirming the applicant’s candidacy for the PNP.
• Exemptions from certain regulatory requirements: Applicants are exempt from some typical conditions, such as eligibility requirements for work permits and the 90-day restoration period for temporary residents.

6. Conclusion

This temporary public policy aims to support foreign nationals who are candidates for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) by providing them with open work permits, allowing them to continue contributing to Canada's labor market. By doing so, Canada hopes to retain skilled workers and create a smoother pathway for them to transition from temporary residents to permanent residents. The policy is in effect until December 31, 2024, and may be revoked at any time.