On December 11, 2015 the popular Canadian pilot program, enabling common-law partners of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to work while waiting for their permanent resident status, was extended for another year. Allowing both spouses to contribute towards the family income, the program eases the burden off of the primary provider to support their family.
On December 11, 2015 the popular Canadian pilot program, enabling common-law partners of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to work while waiting for their permanent resident status, was extended for another year. Allowing both spouses to contribute towards the family income, the program eases the burden off of the primary provider to support their family. On December 22, 2014 the program was announced by Citizenship and Immigration Canada, creating a rush of interest and excitement amongst the immigrant community, with many stories of success and perseverance arising from its creation. Prior to the program many spouses had no option but to be hired as foreign workers by companies that had to submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). While this would grant them a work permit, their ability to work would rely completely on their ability to keep their job, leaving many stranded if they were laid off.
One can be granted an open work permit without having any prior offer of employment from a Canadian employer. Applicants who have already applied for permanent residence under the spousal sponsorship program, but have yet to apply for the work permit, can do so by submitting a completed application along with the application fee to the Case Processing Center in Vegreville, Alberta. If an applicant has already received approval for a permanent residence permit, receiving a letter that they have met the eligibility requirements, but have yet to clear the medical, security, and background checks, they can apply for an open work permit online. For those who were already granted an open work permit when the program first opened, if they wish to keep their permit they must apply for an extension before their initial permit expires. Applicants submitting a new permanent residency application under Spousal or Common-Law Partners in Canada class (SCLPC) may now also apply for an open work permit at the same time. All documentation and fees should be sent to the Case Processing Center in Mississauga, Ontario.
If the applicant has submitted a permanent residence application under the SCLPC class, has had their Canadian spouse or common-law partner submit a sponsorship application on their behalf, lives at the same residence at their sponsor, and has a valid temporary resident status, they will be issued an open work permit.
To get assessed on your eligibility to enter Canada or to explore your options fill out our Free Online Assessment form.
FWCanada is a Montreal-based immigration law firm that provides professional legal services on Canadian immigration. For more tips and updates on Canadian immigration follow FWCanada on Facebook, Twitter, and Linkedin.
