The Government of Canada has announced an extension of the open work permit application deadline for individuals awaiting decisions on their permanent residence (PR) applications under the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) Pathway. Applicants and their eligible family members can now apply for an open work permit until December 31, 2026.
This extension allows eligible individuals to maintain their temporary resident status and continue working in Canada while their PR applications are processed, ensuring stability and opportunity during the waiting period.
What Is the Open Work Permit Extension?
The open work permit extension enables eligible applicants and their family members to:
- Retain temporary resident status in Canada.
- Work for any employer in any occupation while their PR application is being assessed.
This extension applies only to individuals who applied for PR under specific TR to PR Pathway streams launched in 2021.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
Principal Applicants in Canada
To qualify, principal applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: You must currently live in Canada.
- TR to PR Pathway Application: You must have applied under one of the TR to PR Pathway streams and received confirmation from IRCC, such as:
- Workers with recent Canadian experience in essential occupations (health and non-health).
- French-speaking workers or international graduates.
- International graduates from a Canadian post-secondary institution (including above-cap applications).
- Work Authorization: You were legally authorized to work in Canada when you submitted your PR application, with either:
- A valid work permit.
- Authorization to work without a permit.
- Language Proficiency: You met the language requirements for the program at the time of application, supported by valid test results.
- Immigration Status: You must currently hold valid temporary resident status, maintained status, or be eligible for status restoration.
Family Members
Eligible family members include spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of the principal applicant. They must:
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Be included as accompanying family members in the principal applicant’s PR application.
- Meet immigration status requirements if in Canada.
When to Apply
For Applicants with a Valid Work Permit
- You can apply up to four months before your current permit expires. Family members may apply at any time after the PR application has been submitted.
For All Other Applicants and Family Members
You may apply at any time if you:
- Have maintained your status.
- Are eligible to restore your status.
- Are a family member of a principal applicant for the PR Pathway.
Key Takeaways
This policy extension provides critical support to individuals and families who are navigating the transition from temporary resident to permanent resident status. It ensures continued work opportunities and stability for applicants during processing.
Need Assistance?
At Fridman & Company, we specialize in Canadian immigration pathways and are here to help you understand and navigate the open work permit application process. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need guidance on your application, reach out to us at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca for expert advice.
For more details, visit the official Government of Canada announcement or contact our office for personalized assistance.