Canada Extends Open Work Permit Policy for Permanent Residency Applicants

The Government of Canada has extended its temporary public policy allowing eligible permanent residency applicants and certain family members to apply for open work permits until 31 December 2026.

First introduced on 4 July 2021, the policy was created to support individuals in Canada applying for permanent residence through the temporary resident to permanent resident (TR to PR) pathway. It was later revised on 21 April 2022, with changes to eligibility and implementation.

The latest extension aims to reduce the administrative burden of frequent permit renewals and ensure applicants can continue working while awaiting a decision on their permanent residency. It allows eligible individuals to maintain legal status and uninterrupted employment, particularly those who submitted applications in 2021 and are still waiting for final decisions.

In addition to supporting applicants already in Canada, the updated policy also extends eligibility to certain family members living abroad. This change is intended to help speed up family reunification and reduce the challenges faced by families separated during the immigration process.

Holders of these open work permits may work for any employer in any occupation while their application is being processed. The policy supports both applicants’ ability to remain active in the labour market and the wider economic needs of Canadian industries.

The extended policy remains limited to those who meet specific eligibility criteria.