IRCC recently announced a further extension of the temporary public policy allowing Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) candidates to apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) until December 31, 2025. Under this policy, eligible foreign nationals can apply for an OWP valid for up to two years without being tied to a specific employer, thereby providing greater flexibility for those seeking to transition to permanent residency via a PNP. Alberta, Manitoba, and the Yukon have taken the lead by implementing this measure and issuing support letters to PNP candidates who live and work in their respective jurisdictions.

Policy Background and Extension Period

To support foreign workers in Canada who are aiming to transition to permanent residence through PNP pathways, IRCC has officially announced that this OWP-related temporary public policy will remain in effect until December 31, 2025. Because an open work permit does not bind the holder to a specific employer or industry, applicants can pursue job opportunities more flexibly while awaiting the results of their immigration applications. This aligns with the federal government’s ongoing efforts to balance the number of temporary and permanent residents in Canada.

Provinces Participating in This Policy

Three provinces/territories have so far adopted this temporary public policy and have begun issuing support letters to eligible candidates:

• Alberta (Alberta Advantage Immigration Program, AAIP)
• Manitoba (Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program, MPNP)
• Yukon (Yukon Nominee Program, YNP)

It is important to note that this policy applies only to candidates currently in the selection process for a PNP. Those who have already submitted a PNP application or received a nomination are not covered. Since the procedure for obtaining an OWP support letter may differ among provinces, applicants should first consult the relevant provincial or territorial immigration authority for specific guidelines.

Who Can Apply for an Open Work Permit Through This Policy?

Applicants must meet the following core requirements:

1. Possess a Support Letter from the Province or Territory

• The letter must come from one of the provinces/territories participating in the policy, and you must currently reside and work there.

2. Provide Proof of Employment From Your Current Employer

• This confirms that you are legally employed in that province or territory.

3. Fall under at Least One of the Following Three Situations:

• Situation 1: Currently Hold a Valid Work Permit
• Situation 2: Work Permit Expired but Extension or Restoration Has Been Requested
• The work permit was valid as of May 7, 2024, and then expired;
• You have applied for an extension of your temporary resident status or for restoration of that status.
• Situation 3: Maintained Status with Extension Application Submitted
• As of May 7, 2024, you were under “maintained status” because you submitted an application to extend your work permit before May 7, 2024;
• That application is still in process or has already been approved.

If you fall under “Situation 2” and have exceeded the usual 90-day timeframe to apply for restoration of status, or if you have any history of working without proper authorization, these issues can potentially be waived under this temporary public policy.

Significance of the Temporary Public Policy

One of the federal government’s key objectives is to balance the proportion of temporary and permanent residents in Canada. By allowing candidates already under consideration in PNP pools to legally maintain work status while awaiting final approval, this policy provides financial stability for applicants and helps provinces attract and retain talent.

Advantages of an Open Work Permit

Compared to employer-specific (“closed”) work permits, open work permits do not restrict the holder to one employer or industry and typically have a fixed validity period that is not affected if you change employers. This flexibility is especially valuable for newcomers in the process of transitioning from temporary to permanent residence, as it helps them more easily secure or change jobs, earn income, and integrate into Canadian society.

Conclusion

For foreign workers planning to build their future in Canada, the extension of the temporary public policy offering open work permits for PNP candidates comes as welcome news. With fewer employer restrictions and potential waivers for certain restoration-of-status constraints, it paves the way for a smoother transition from temporary residence to permanent residency. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consult their provincial immigration authorities for the latest details and to prepare thoroughly based on their individual circumstances—thus ensuring a more seamless career and life in Canada.