Open Work Permits for Spouses, Partners, and Children of Sponsors
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled a new temporary public policy. This policy allows spouses, partners, and dependent children of sponsors to work in Canada while their permanent residence application is under review. This significant development aims to alleviate the financial strain on families during the sponsorship process and enables these individuals to contribute to the Canadian economy.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for an open work permit under this public policy, the foreign national must meet the following criteria:
- They must be the subject of a sponsorship application submitted by their Canadian citizen or permanent resident spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner.
- They must have submitted a work permit application, where the duration of the work permit requested is a maximum of two years.
- They must have valid temporary resident status in Canada or be eligible for and have applied for restoration of status.
- They must share the same residential address as their sponsor in Canada at the time of the application.
Application Process
The application process for an open work permit under this public policy mirrors the regular work permit application process. The foreign national must complete an application form, provide supporting documentation, and pay the application fee.
Benefits of an Open Work Permit
Several benefits come with obtaining an open work permit under this public policy. Firstly, it allows the foreign national to work in Canada while their permanent residence application is under review. This eases the financial burden on families during the sponsorship process and enables these individuals to contribute to the Canadian economy.
Secondly, an open work permit grants the foreign national the freedom to work for any employer in any location in Canada. This flexibility allows them to find a job that best matches their skills and experience.
Thirdly, an open work permit enables the foreign national to start accumulating their Canadian work experience. This experience will be a valuable asset when they apply for permanent residence.
The new public policy announced by IRCC is a significant development that will benefit many families. It eases the financial burden on families during the sponsorship process, allows these individuals to contribute to the Canadian economy, and gives them the freedom to work for any employer in any location in Canada.
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