In 2024, Canada saw a record number of foreign workers applying for the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). With so many applications, processing times for PNP decisions increased, leaving many workers with expired work permits before getting a decision. When this happens, applicants often lose their eligibility for PNP nomination.
To fix this, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) created a temporary policy with three provinces: Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon. This policy allows certain PNP candidates to apply for an open work permit (OWP) while waiting for their PNP decision. The open work permit helps them stay legally in Canada and keep working.
Who Can Apply for the Open Work Permit?
Not everyone who applied to the PNP can use this policy. Only candidates with a support letter from their province are eligible. Provinces decide which candidates to support based on their specific criteria.
This policy applies to workers living in Alberta, Manitoba, or Yukon whose work permits are expiring between May 7 and December 31, 2024, and who:
- Have applied to the PNP but are waiting for a decision.
- Had a valid work permit on or after May 7, 2024 (expired permits are allowed if the candidate is eligible to restore their status).
How Provinces Issue Support Letters
Eligible candidates don’t need to request a support letter—the province will contact them. Provinces review applications to see who still lives and works there and who cannot renew their work permits through other means. If chosen, candidates will receive a support letter to use in their open work permit application.
Steps to Apply for the Open Work Permit
If you get a support letter, follow these steps to apply:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
Gather these items:
- Provincial support letter.
- Employment letter from your current job.
- Valid passport.
- Proof of fee payment.
- Passport-sized photo.
Step 2: Pay the Fees
Be ready to pay:
- Work permit fee: CA$155
- Open work permit holder fee: CA$100
- Restoration fee (if applicable): CA$229
Step 3: Complete the Application
Apply online using form IMM 5710 (Extend Your Stay as a Worker).
- In the “Details of intended work in Canada” section, choose Open Work Permit.
- Enter the correct provincial code based on your letter of support:
- Alberta: ABEOI2024
- Manitoba: MBEOI2024
- Yukon: YKEOI2024
Why This Policy is Important
This policy is great news for foreign workers whose work permits are about to expire. It lets them stay in Canada legally and continue working while waiting for their PNP results. Provinces also benefit by keeping skilled workers in their local economy. Employers get to retain valuable employees without interruptions, helping industries stay strong.
If you qualify, act fast! This policy ends on December 31, 2024, and could be revoked at any time. Swift Immigration can guide you through the application process, so you don’t miss this opportunity.
For more information or assistance, contact Swift Immigration today!