Maple News reports that international graduates and essential workers in Canada applying through the Temporary Residence to Permanent Residence (TR to PR) pathway can now include their family members in their open work permit applications under a special public policy. This option allows eligible dependents to stay and work in Canada while the principal applicant awaits a decision on their permanent residency application.
The TR to PR Open Work Permit stream, launched on July 26 and available until December 31, 2022, helps applicants maintain legal working status in Canada as they transition to permanent residency. Alongside principal applicants, eligible immediate family members already in Canada can also benefit from this bridging open work permit.
To qualify, family members must have been listed as dependents in the permanent residence application. Immediate family includes a spouse, common-law partner, and dependent children. Children aged 18 and over may qualify for their own open work permits, while younger children might require a study permit.
All family members wishing to be included must be physically present in Canada and meet standard work permit eligibility criteria. Supporting documents are required, such as marriage or birth certificates, and in the case of common-law partners, a Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union. A copy of Form IMM 0008, where dependents are listed, must also be submitted with the application.
Immigration officers may request additional evidence if they suspect a relationship is not genuine. Proof of a bona fide family connection is essential to gaining approval.
This policy gives families greater stability as they navigate the immigration process together. It also ensures that Canada retains critical workforce members by preventing gaps in legal working status.
Maple News encourages candidates who meet the eligibility criteria to apply before the deadline and to prepare all documentation carefully to avoid processing delays.