Whether open work permit holders can apply for Permanent Resident (PR) status in Canada is important for many individuals from foreign countries. Open work permits are temporary status – typically issued for a specific purpose such as study or work – that enable foreign nationals to work in Canada for a set period of time. While open work permits allow their holders to stay due to the specific nature of their authorization, they do not provide any guarantee toward permanent residency in Canada.
Common Pathways to Obtain Canada PR
To begin, it is crucial to understand the common paths that can lead to permanent residency in Canada. Generally, individuals may obtain permanent residency in Canada either by immigrating through economic or family classes, express entry, or by applying for provincial nominee programs (PNPs) or provincial business immigration programs. Those already in Canada may also apply for permanent residency on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.
In regard to open work permit holders, unfortunately, holding a work permit does not constitute a pathway to permanent residency. It is important to note that applying for, receiving, or renewing an open work permit does not initiate, help or benefit any permanent residence application. Receiving a work permit in Canada does not affect an individual’s immigration status in any way, and therefore does not provide any pathway to permanent residency.
How Can Open Work Permit Holders Get PR in Canada?
Open work permit holders who are seeking permanent residence in Canada would need to ensure that their application for permanent residency is through one of the aforementioned pathways, such as express entry, family sponsorship, or a PNP/ business immigration program. Holding a work permit is not a condition of eligibility.
However, it is important to note that currently, there are some special open work permits in place which allow individuals to obtain permanent residency in Canada. Within this context, if an individual holds an open work permit that is part of the Canadian Experience Class, Live-in Caregiver Program, Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program, or Caregiver Program, then he or she may be able to become a permanent resident in Canada via that particular pathway. Notifications for such permits are normally made at the time of the work permit’s issuance.
Overall, open work permits enable foreign nationals to stay in Canada for a certain period of time and also allow them to experience life and work in Canada. While many people feel that open work permits could constitute a pathway to permanent residency in Canada, they do not entitle holders to PR and serve solely as temporary visas.
Therefore, open work permit holders who are seeking to apply for permanent residence in Canada should carefully analyze the available pathways that might make them eligible for such a status. If you need any kind of help with your work permit to PR Canada, you can get in touch with our experts for consultation.
Apply for Canada PR as an Open Work Permit Holder
Applying for Canada PR as an open work permit holder is a great way to increase your chances of living and working in Canada permanently. Although the process may seem daunting at first, there are many sources to help guide you through it and our experienced immigration professionals can provide guidance and support. The following lists the four popular Canadian immigration programs for open work permit holders:
- Canadian Experienced Class (CEC)
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Family Sponsorship
There are different eligibility criteria and requirements for each program. Thus, it’s important to understand that criteria and assess your profile before going ahead with the application. You can contact ICW Immigration for support and assistance with any Canadian visa.
TR to PR in Canada
Those who are currently in Canada on a temporary work permit should think about getting their applications for permanent residence prepared if they want to stay there for a longer period of time. If the patterns in the most recent PR draws are any indication, they stand a good chance of being granted permanent residence.
Mostly the IRCC has given preference to those who are already residing in Canada with plans to make it their permanent home.
In the recent Express Entry draws, the IRCC has benefitted provincial nominees and the Canadian Experience Class – a permanent immigration program for people with a year of work experience.
Work Permit to PR in Canada - We Can Help!
We can assist you if you are currently in Canada on a work permit and want to apply for a PR. We are aware that changing from a temporary resident status to a permanent resident status is not always simple, but we can assist you if you sort through the various options and select the one that would increase your chances of getting a Canadian PR.
We offer some of the most suitable pathways as Registered Canadian Immigration Consultants based on your profile. We will inform you if you are qualified to apply for a PR after reviewing your information.
