Exploring Canada Open Work Permit OWP Extension for PNP Applicants

Immigrants have always been drawn to Canada, and the country is doing its utmost to bring in the right people and grow with them. New Policy for Open Work Permits to PNP Candidates Recently, the Canadian government has expanded one of its initiatives to PNP candidates and their family members. The change aims to provide more work flexibility for those applying via the PNP while they wait for their permanent residence.  But how will this change benefit PNP candidates, and what will it mean for those wanting to move to Canada? Let’s take a closer look.

What is an Open Work Permit (OWP)?

Before going into the particulars of the new policy, it’s best to first understand what an open work permit (OWP) is. An Open Work Permit (OWP) is a type of work permit that allows foreigners to work for any employer in Canada. While employer-specific work permits (closed work permits) tie workers to a specific job or employer, OWPs provide greater flexibility. Such flexibility is especially important for PNP candidates as they move towards permanent residency.

What is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)?

A Canadian immigration route known as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows provinces and territories to designate individuals for permanent residency on the basis of their qualifications, work history, and capacity to support the local economy. It has a close connection to the Canada Express Entry system, which oversees that group of economic immigration applicants.

➤ PNP Express Entry: A Pathway to Permanent Residency

The PNP, which underpins the Express Entry system, is a critical component of the Canadian immigration system. Express Entry is primarily used to handle applications for the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class. Individuals nominated by a province can improve their prospects of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residency by earning points through the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).

Canadian New Policy on Work Permits for PNP Candidates

Specifically, the new Canadian immigration policy seeks to make it easier for those applying through the PNP to find employment in Canada by issuing open work permits. These permits allow candidates to work with any employer they want in Canada whilst they wait for their PR applications to be processed. The change to policy is the latest effort to smooth the transition for PNP candidates from temporary to permanent status.

➤ Why is This Policy Important for PNP Candidates?

The main benefit of this new policy is the ability for PNP candidates to work freely across Canada. Previously, many PNP applicants were restricted to working for a specific employer in a specific job. With open work permits, they can take advantage of more job opportunities, thus improving their chances of finding employment that suits their skills and interests. This flexibility is not only beneficial for individuals but also for employers who may find it easier to hire foreign talent.

How Does the Policy Work?

Let’s explain how the open work permit process works for PNP applicants under the new policy.

Step 1: Understand the Eligibility Requirements

To apply for an open work permit under the new policy, you need to be a nominee under the Provincial Nominee Program. You must also be in a position where you are waiting for your permanent residency application to be processed.

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

Once you’ve verified that you’re eligible, you will have to fill out an application for an open work permit. The application is multi-staged: You would need to collect certain documents like proof of your provincial nomination and information regarding your work experience.

Step 3: Pay the Fees

Just like most immigration applications, there is a fee to submit an application for an open work permit. These are the work permit fee, open work permit holder fee, and, if needed, restoration of status fee.

Step 4: Submit Your Application Online

To apply, you have to register with the IRCC Secure Account. This account enables you to apply online, pay your fees, and track your application status.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

When you apply, however, you will await processing. Processing times can vary, so it’s important to check your IRCC Secure Account for updates.

Benefits of Open Work Permits for PNP Candidates

The open work permit is a great benefit for PNP applicants. Some of the most notable of those were:

➤ Flexibility in Employment

As discussed above, open work permits allow you to go to work for any employer in Canada. This is a major advantage over closed work permits, which only allow one to work for a specific employer.

➤ Opportunities to Gain Canadian Work Experience

More than work experience in Canada is important for the immigration process for PNP candidates. An open work permit allows you to do any job that matches your skills and qualifications, and this will increase your chances of getting a permanent residence status.

➤ Increased Earning Potential

On top of it all, being able to work for whichever employer you want means the chance to negotiate better jobs that pay more. This can help a lot with your finances until you get your permanent residency.

➤ Access to Social Benefits

Working in Canada under an open work permit means you will likely be eligible for Canadian social benefits such as healthcare and employment insurance, which will provide peace of mind as you wait for your permanent residency.

How to Apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) as a PNP Candidate

➤ Step-by-Step Application Process

• Sign Up for an IRCC Secure Account:
Make sure you've uploaded all the necessary files by regularly reviewing the document checklist.

• Pay the Necessary Fees:
Make sure you've uploaded all the necessary files by regularly reviewing the document checklist.

• Complete the Application Form:
You must complete the application, make sure all the fields are accurate, and upload the required files.

• Submit Your Application:
You must complete the application, make sure all the fields are accurate, and upload the required files.

• Receive Your Work Permit:
You must complete the application, make sure all the fields are accurate, and upload the required files.

What Documents Are Needed for the Application?

When applying for an open work permit through the PNP, you will need to upload certain documents. These may include:

     ▲ A valid passport
     ▲ A Family Information Form (IMM 5707)
     ▲ A digital photo
     ▲ A support letter from the province or territory
     ▲ A copy of your most recent work permit (if applicable)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Applying for an open work permit under the PNP program can be a complex process, and there are a few common mistakes that applicants should avoid:

     • Incomplete Application Forms: Make sure the form is completely filled out, as some information must be present for the process, otherwise it will be delayed.
     • Failure to Pay Fees: Ensure that you have received a receipt of payment, as your application cannot be processed unless the payment is complete.
     • Missing Documents: You have to fill out the application, upload the necessary files, and confirm that all the fields are correct.

Conclusion: A Step Forward for PNP Candidates

The Canadian government's decision to give unrestricted work licenses to PNP candidates is a good one. Applicants may look for better career prospects while they wait for permanent residency. This new regulation makes it easier to obtain a Canadian immigration visa for anyone who wants to relocate to Canada through the PNP, benefiting everyone.