Spousal open work permit pilot is going to be permanent

Canada makes immigration easy for prospective applicants who want to build their life in Canada. The country is planning to make the Open Work Permit Pilot (OWPP) permanent so that candidates can continue to enjoy its benefit.

This pilot allows common-law partners and spouses of Canadians to work even when they are waiting for an update on their permanent resident status. Not only does this help the couple financially, but it also allows the prospective candidate to continue adjusting in Canadian society.

History of the pilot

This program was first launched in December 2014. It was extended recently, after which it was going to expire on July 31. This time, Canada chose not to set another expiry date. Instead, they went ahead with extending the program until the county can successfully complete the regulatory changes required to implement the pilot as a permanent policy.

In the time that has been active, the pilot has been advantageous for many foreign spouses and common-law partners. Now that the pilot will be a permanent program, future applicants can rejoice.

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated their website about this change. The Government of Canada regards family reunification as a core immigration priority which prompted this change.

How to apply

The OWPP can be utilized by inland spousal and common-law sponsorship applicants. Couples living together in Canada should take advantage of inland sponsorship. The partner who wants to apply for immigration should have a temporary status as a worker, a student, or a visitor already. They are free to apply for the open work permit once they have submitted their application for permanent residence via family-class sponsorship.

Open work permits are not dependent on specific employers. As foreign workers, they will be able to work for any employer in Canada if they satisfy the occupation’s qualifications.