Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended its public policy allowing applicants in the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TR to PR) pathway to access longer-duration open work permits (OWPs) while their permanent residency applications are under review. This extension will remain in effect until December 31, 2026.
The policy ensures that these individuals, including their spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children, can continue living and working in Canada legally as their applications are processed. This measure helps to mitigate uncertainty, allowing applicants and their families to maintain employment and stability during the often lengthy PR review period.
The TR to PR pathway was originally launched in 2021 as a limited-time initiative. It targeted foreign workers with experience in essential services, healthcare, or those who recently graduated from Canadian post-secondary institutions. Although the pathway officially closed in 2021, many applications are still being processed, making this policy extension crucial for affected individuals.
To be eligible for an open work permit under this policy, applicants must meet several criteria. Principal applicants must hold (or be eligible to restore) temporary resident status and may apply even if their current work permit has less than four months of validity remaining. They must also have submitted their PR application under the TR to PR public policy using a secure IRCC account and clearly indicated which stream they applied under.
Applicants also need to demonstrate that they held legal authorization to work in Canada at the time of their PR submission and meet IRCC-approved language requirements. Additionally, they must have received an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR) or corresponding documentation from IRCC confirming their application is within the intake cap.
It’s important to note that this benefit is only granted to applicants whose PR applications are still in process. Those whose applications have been withdrawn or refused are not eligible.
This policy extension reflects IRCC’s ongoing commitment to labor stability and immigrant support during transitional immigration processes. It also serves Canada’s broader economic and labor force objectives, particularly as skilled workers and essential employees continue to fill critical roles nationwide.
Maple News will continue to provide updates and expert insights on immigration policy changes as they evolve.