New Canadian work permit available
Core workers and foreign graduates based in Canada can work while waiting for their PR.
Earlier, on May 6, 2021, the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Service (IRCC) officially opened a new pathway to permanent residency for international graduates of Canadian educational institutions and essential workers (this includes healthcare workers and those engaged in other essential work activities in Canada).
And on July 15, Marco El Mendicino, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship announced that as of July 26, those who have applied for a permanent residence (PR) under this program can also receive an open single-entry work permit while waiting for their application to be processed.
"Our new pathway to permanent residency for 90,000 core workers and foreign graduates is an important step forward of unprecedented size, speed and scope. The new open work permit they will receive will ensure that these people can continue the important work activities they have been doing throughout their quarantine. Our message to them is simple: your status may be temporary, but your contribution to Canada is lasting and we want you to stay," said Marco El Mendicino.
To qualify for this work permit, applicants must show that they:
1. Successfully applied under new program.
2. have a valid work permit or have the right to work without a work permit at the time of their application for a permanent residence permit.
3. have a valid work permit that expires within the next 4 months.
4. have temporary resident status, maintain their status, or have the right to reinstate their status at the time of application for an open work permit.
5. Are in Canada at the time of application for an open work permit.
6. Meet the language requirements of the stream for which they have applied for a permanent residence permit.
7. Worked legally in Canada at the time of application for permanent residence.
Individuals whose authorized status to stay in Canada expires can extend their work permit under existing programs or obtain a new permit under one of the temporary measures introduced as a result of the pandemic. For example, as part of the government's policy on post-graduation work permits.
It's important to know:
1. The applicant's spouse or common-law partner and dependent children under 18 years of age or older may also be eligible to apply for an open work permit under this program if they are also in Canada.
2. Applications for a new work permit should be submitted online. Additional information on how to submit such an application will be added to the IRCC website on 26 July 2021.
3. Work permits issued under this program will be valid until December 31, 2022.
