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How to Secure an Open Work Permit for Your Spouse or Partner During the Sponsorship Process

ICC Immigration Inc > Blog > Announcement > How to Secure an Open Work Permit for Your Spouse or Partner During the Sponsorship Process
How to Secure an Open Work Permit for Your Spouse or Partner During Sponsorship

Sponsoring a spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner for permanent residency (PR) in Canada can be a life-changing decision. During this process, your partner may be eligible to apply for an open work permit (OWP), enabling them to work for most employers in Canada while their PR application is being processed. This guide explores the eligibility criteria, application process, and how ICC Immigration can support you in navigating this journey.

Eligibility for an Open Work Permit During the Sponsorship Process

Both Inland and Outland sponsorship applications provide an avenue for the sponsored individual to apply for an OWP. To qualify, the sponsored person must meet the following criteria:

  1. Genuine Relationship: The relationship with the sponsor must be genuine and not solely for immigration purposes.
  2. Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR): The sponsored person must have received an AOR from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), confirming their PR application is under process.
  3. Residency in Canada: The sponsored individual must live in Canada with the sponsor.

However, individuals are not eligible for an OWP if their PR application has been refused, withdrawn, or returned, or if they intend to apply for a work permit at a port of entry.

Application Process Based on Temporary Status

For Sponsored Individuals with Temporary Status

  • Spouses or partners holding a valid temporary resident visa (e.g., work permit, study permit, or visitor visa) can apply for an OWP online through an IRCC secure account after receiving an AOR for their PR application.
  • In exceptional cases, IRCC may allow individuals to apply for an OWP without an AOR if their temporary resident status is about to expire within two weeks.

For Sponsored Individuals Without Temporary Status

  • Those without valid temporary status must wait until they receive an approval-in-principle letter from IRCC before applying for an OWP.
  • Applications under other public policies or pilot programs are not eligible in this scenario.

Steps to Apply for an OWP

  1. Create or Log in to an IRCC Secure Account: The sponsored individual must create an IRCC secure account separate from the PR portal.
  2. Complete the Application: Answer the application’s personalized questions to generate a tailored document checklist.
  3. Fill Out the “Details of Intended Work” Section:
    • Select “Open Work Permit” in Box 1.
    • Enter “SCLPC FC OWP” as the job title and “SCLPC FC applicant in Canada public policy” as the description of duties.
  4. Submit Documents: Upload all necessary documents as per the checklist and pay the applicable fees.
  5. Wait for Approval: Once approved, IRCC will mail the work permit, allowing the sponsored individual to begin working legally.

Maintaining Legal Status

The sponsored individual must maintain their legal status as a temporary resident while waiting for their OWP. If they already have a work permit, they can continue working as long as they apply for the OWP before the current permit expires. For those without temporary status, work can only begin once the OWP is issued.

How ICC Immigration Can Help

Navigating Canada’s immigration policies can be challenging, but ICC Immigration is here to simplify the process. With our experienced team, we provide:

  • Permanent Residency Applications: Guidance through pathways like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs to ensure a smooth PR process.
  • Work and Study Permit: Assistance in exploring temporary options that can lead to PR.
  • Family Sponsorships: Help in reuniting families and securing PR status for loved ones.
  • Expert Legal Advice: Comprehensive support to comply with Canadian immigration regulations and maximize application success.

By choosing ICC Immigration, you gain a partner dedicated to your success in Canada. Instead of relying on uncertain pathways, let us guide you toward stability and a clear route to permanent residency.

Why Apply for an OWP?

An OWP offers significant advantages for both sponsors and sponsored individuals:

  • Financial independence for the sponsored person.
  • The ability to contribute to the Canadian economy.
  • Reduced stress on the sponsor, knowing their partner has employment opportunities.

Final Thoughts

Securing an OWP during the sponsorship process can provide invaluable benefits for your family’s future in Canada. Whether you’re navigating the complexities of an OWP application or planning your immigration journey, ICC Immigration offers the expertise and support needed for a successful outcome. Contact us today to take the first step toward securing your future in Canada.
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