This article was originally published on April 27, 2022, and was updated on August 9, 2022, to reflect new information.
August 9, 2022 Update: The government of Canada will implement measures for specific post-graduate student and permanent resident applicants to apply for an additional 18-month open work permit.
The government also clarified open work permit application requirements for post-graduate students based on when their current work permit and passport are due to expire. Eligible applicants currently located within Canada who hold expired or expiring work permits will receive an email confirmation from the Canadian government allowing them to continue to work in the country. In contrast, the open work permit is processed or extended. The government will allow this interim period so that foreign nationals currently employed in Canada can continue to work and support the Canadian economy. This temporary work period will remain in effect until May 31, 2023.
The Canadian government will also allow applicants of temporary residence to permanent residence pathways whose permanent residence application has not been finalized to apply for an open work permit. This will enable these applicants to continue to work in Canada and legally remain in the country while their permanent residence application is processed. These open work permits will remain valid until December 31, 2024, as long as the applicant’s passport remains valid.
All applicants must ensure that their legal status in Canada and passport remain valid while they process for an open work permit.
Original Post From April 27, 2022:
Key Points
- Canada introduced a new policy that will allow recent international graduates with expiring temporary status to apply for an additional open work permit of up to 18 months
Overview
The government of Canada announced that it would introduce a new policy that will allow recent international graduates with expiring temporary status to apply for an additional open work permit of up to 18 months. This measure will apply to international students in Canada who have a post-graduation work permit that will expire between January and December 2022.
The government of Canada also announced that it would extend measures to allow visitors in Canada to apply for an employer-specific work permit without being required to leave the country until February 28, 2023.
For additional information, check here.
What are the Changes?
The government of Canada announced that it would allow eligible international graduates with expiring temporary status to apply for an open work permit that will enable them to remain in Canada for 18 months. Visitors who entered Canada in August 2020 under an employer-specific work permit will also be able to stay in Canada until February 28, 2023. The government stated that this would provide these individuals with more time to remain in Canada, gain work experience, and qualify for permanent residency.
Looking Ahead
The government has not yet announced the exact date for when this process will begin and is currently exploring options to simplify and expedite processing times for eligible applicants. Continue to check the government of Canada’s website for the latest updates and information.
Written by: Jessie Butchley, Global Immigration Writer, Envoy Global
Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
