Canada Extends Open Work Permit (OWP) Policy for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Candidates
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended its temporary public policy offering open work permits (OWPs) to eligible Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates until December 31, 2025. This extension provides foreign nationals with increased flexibility to work in Canada while awaiting their permanent residency.
Who Can Apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP)?
To be eligible for an OWP under this policy, candidates must:
- Hold a valid Expression of Interest (EOI) profile with a participating province or territory.
- Obtain a support letter from the respective province or territory.
- Provide a letter of employment from their current employer.
Additionally, applicants must meet one of the following conditions:
Situation 1: Valid Work Permit
- The applicant currently holds a valid work permit.
Situation 2: Expired Work Permit + Extension or Restoration Application
- The applicant had a valid work permit as of May 7, 2024, but it has since expired.
- They have applied for extension of temporary resident status or restoration of status.
Situation 3: Maintained Status with Pending or Approved Extension
- As of May 7, 2024, they had maintained status due to a previously submitted extension application.
- The application remains pending or has been approved.
Which Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) Are Participating?
Currently, three PNPs are issuing work permit support letters under this policy:
- Alberta – Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)
- Manitoba – Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP)
- Yukon – Yukon Nominee Program (YNP)
How to Apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) Under This Policy
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
- A valid passport
- Letter of employment from your current employer
- A support letter from your provincial or territorial authority
- A copy of your current work permit (if applicable)
- Family Information form [IMM 5707]
- Digital photo
Step 2: Review the Instruction Guide
Read the official IRCC instruction guide to complete your application correctly.
Step 3: Understand the Fees
| Fee Type | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Work Permit Fee | $155 |
| Open Work Permit Holder Fee | $100 |
| Restoration of Status Fee (if applicable) | $239.75 |
Step 4: Create an IRCC Secure Account
Sign up or log in to an IRCC Secure Account to:
- Submit your application
- Pay the required fees
- Track your application status
Step 5: Obtain Your Personalized Document Checklist
After logging in, answer a few eligibility questions to receive a customized checklist.
Step 6: Fill Out the Application Form
When completing the Details of Intended Work in Canada section, use the correct provincial codes:
- Alberta – ABEOI2024
- Manitoba – MBEOI2024
- Yukon – YKEOI2024
Step 7: Upload Supporting Documents
Upload the required documents as per the checklist. If certain documents do not apply, upload a page stating “Not Applicable” for:
- Employment reference letter
- Employment records
- Employment contract
Why This Temporary Public Policy Matters
The IRCC’s decision to extend the OWP policy aligns with Canada’s goal of reducing temporary residents as a percentage of its population. This policy helps foreign nationals transition to permanent residency while ensuring their ability to work and contribute to Canada’s economy.
Benefits of an Open Work Permit (OWP)
- Work for Any Employer – Unlike employer-specific work permits, OWPs allow flexibility.
- Employment Across Multiple Sectors – Work in different industries without restrictions.
- No Job Offer Requirement – Applicants do not need a confirmed job offer to apply.
Final Thoughts
If you are a PNP candidate in Alberta, Manitoba, or Yukon, this extended policy presents a valuable opportunity to continue working in Canada while awaiting nomination. Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, obtain the necessary documents, and submit your OWP application before the policy’s expiry on December 31, 2025.