Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced an important update for entrepreneurs applying for permanent residence under the Start-Up Visa (SUV) Program. Eligible applicants may now apply for open work permits instead of employer-specific permits while they await their PR decision.
Key Highlights of the Update
Open Work Permits Now Available for Essential Applicants
As of October 3, 2024, Start-Up Visa PR applicants who are deemed essential to their business venture are now eligible to apply for open work permits, allowing them to:
- Work for any employer in Canada
- Continue advancing their start-up business without being restricted to a specific employer or job role
This change offers greater flexibility and recognizes the evolving nature of entrepreneurship, where founders often need to engage in broader business development and strategic work.
What Happens to Applications Received Before October 3, 2024?
- Applications received before October 3, 2024will be assessed under the previous guidelines for employer-specific work permits.
- IRCC will not re-assessolder applications under the new open work permit criteria unless a new application is submitted that meets the updated requirements.
Updates to Employer-Specific Work Permit Instructions
For SUV applicants who still apply for employer-specific work permits, IRCC has clarified:
- There is no need to submit a new Letter of Support or new Commitment Certificate if they already exist and are valid.
- Officers should continue processing under code A77.
Need Help Navigating the Start-Up Visa Program?
At Fridman and Company, we assist entrepreneurs and innovators in their immigration process. Contact us at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca to ensure your application is properly aligned with the latest IRCC policy updates.
Disclaimer: This post is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For official details, please consult the IRCC website.