IRCC Announces 2024 Work Permit Extension Policy for PNP

Canada’s Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, Marc Miller, has introduced a new public policy designed to streamline the process for issuing open work permits to foreign nationals currently residing in Canada under Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). Effective from August 11, 2024, this policy aims to support skilled workers who have already shown their ability to contribute economically and socially to the country.

The new policy, established under Section 25.2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA), offers an expedited pathway for those with provincial or territorial support through the PNP. It specifically targets temporary residents who either hold a valid work permit, had a permit expire recently, or were authorized to work under specific regulations as of May 7, 2024.

Foreign nationals with a valid work permit must apply for a new permit under section 200 of the Regulations. They need to provide a support letter from their Provincial or Territorial authority, confirming their placement in the Expression of Interest pool or application inventory for the PNP. A letter of employment from their current employer is also required.

For individuals whose work permits expired after May 7, 2024, they must apply for a new work permit, extend their temporary resident status, or restore it if it has lapsed. They must also submit a support letter from their Provincial or Territorial authority and a letter of employment.

Those who were authorized to work on May 7, 2024, and have a pending work permit extension or approval must also follow the same process. This includes submitting a support letter and employment letter from their Provincial or Territorial authority.

The policy includes exemptions from certain regulatory requirements, specifically those outlined in paragraph 200(1)(c) and paragraph 200(3)(e) of the Regulations. These exemptions allow eligible foreign nationals to continue working legally in Canada while their PNP application is processed. However, all other eligibility and admissibility requirements not exempted under this or any other public policy must still be met.

This new policy is set to expire on December 31, 2024, but could be revoked earlier without prior notice. It reflects Canada’s broader strategy to retain skilled workers and adjust the ratio of temporary to permanent residents. By offering a clearer path to permanent residency, the government aims to attract and keep a workforce vital to the nation’s economic growth.

This policy marks a significant step in Canada’s efforts to support temporary residents seeking permanent residency. By simplifying the work permit process, the government reinforces its commitment to a robust and inclusive immigration system that benefits both foreign nationals and the Canadian economy. Temporary residents who meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity to secure their future in Canada.