Canada Extends Open Work Permits for TR to PR Pathway Applicants

Canada’s Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made significant strides in supporting applicants on the TR to PR pathway by extending the temporary public policy that allows them to receive longer open work permits (OWPs). This policy has been extended until December 31, 2026, providing more time for those awaiting permanent residency decisions.

The new extension also applies to family members, including spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children, ensuring that all applicants can continue to work legally in Canada while their permanent residency applications are processed.

Key Updates on the OWP Extension

1. Eligibility: TR to PR pathway applicants who have received an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR) and meet the necessary work authorization and language criteria are eligible for an open work permit. Family members, such as spouses and children, can also apply.
2. No Additional Fees: Applicants will only need to pay the regular processing fees for the work permit. There is no open work permit holder fee for applicants and their family members, making this a cost-effective option for many.
3. Extended Period: The extended open work permits will allow applicants to work in Canada while waiting for their permanent residence application to be finalized, providing much-needed stability and flexibility.

This policy extension is part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to attract skilled workers and help integrate newcomers. Applicants on the TR to PR pathway now have more time to contribute to the Canadian economy while pursuing their immigration goals. Moreover, this is not the only immigration-related change for 2024 and beyond. Canada is also updating work experience requirements for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants in 2025, which may impact future immigration plans. For more details, check out this PNP work experience update.

How the TR to PR Pathway Benefits Applicants

The TR to PR pathway was introduced to facilitate the transition of temporary foreign workers and international graduates in specific sectors to permanent residency. Applicants who meet the criteria can apply for permanent residency while working in Canada. The extended open work permits ensure that individuals don’t have to leave the workforce while waiting for their applications to be processed.

The OWP extension allows applicants to continue contributing their skills to the Canadian economy, while offering their families the opportunity to stay together and work as well. This is a win-win for both applicants and Canada, as it supports labor market integration and reduces unnecessary uncertainty for families.

How to Apply for the Extended OWP

To apply for the extended OWP, applicants must:

• Have received an AOR from the IRCC for the TR to PR pathway.
• Meet the eligibility requirements, such as specific language test scores and proof of authorized work in Canada.
• Apply with the UCI of the principal applicant if including family members.

You can learn more about the Express Entry system, which also provides pathways for Canadian permanent residency, including the latest updates on the points system for applicants without a job offer, in this detailed Express Entry guide.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What is the TR to PR pathway?
A: The TR to PR pathway allows foreign workers and international graduates to apply for permanent residency in Canada, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria.

Q: Who can apply for the extended OWP?
A: TR to PR pathway applicants who have received an AOR and their family members, including spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children.

Q: Are there additional fees for family members applying for an OWP?
A: Family members will only need to pay the regular processing fee for a work permit, without any extra charges for the open work permit holder fee.

The extension of open work permits for TR to PR pathway applicants provides valuable support for those building their future in Canada. This policy gives applicants more time to establish themselves professionally and financially while their permanent residency applications are processed. Furthermore, by including family members in this extension, Canada continues to show its commitment to making immigration processes smoother and more inclusive.

For more updates on immigration pathways and eligibility requirements, stay tuned to official sources and other expert advice.