January 31, 2019 – Canada’s federal government has extended the open work permit pilot for spouses and common-law partners who are in Canada and the subject of permanent residence applications via the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class.
The pilot was due to expire on January 31, 2019, but has now been extended until July 31, 2020.
The work permit program is designed to allow spouses and partners to work while their immigration applications are being finalized.
Eligible candidates must be in Canada and in the process of being sponsored for permanent residence under the Spouse or Common-Law Partner in Canada Class. Candidates must also have valid temporary status as a visitor, student or worker and live at the same address as their sponsor.
A federal government statement said: “Canada recognizes that when families can work while living together, their integration outcomes are improved.
“Extending this pilot ensures applicants are able to work, provide for their families and contribute to the Canadian economy while waiting for their permanent resident applications to be processed.”
How to Apply for a Spousal Work Permit
To apply for the spousal work permit, choose the situation that applies to you:
1) Those submitting a new application for permanent residence can apply for the work permit at the same time. Send both completed applications to one of the following addresses:
By mail:
In-Canada Sponsorship
CPC – Mississauga
PO Box 5040, Station B
Mississauga, ON
L5A 3A4
By courier:
Case Processing Centre – Mississauga
2 Robert Speck Parkway, Suite 300
Mississauga, ON
L4Z 1H8
2) Those who have already submitted a permanent residence application can complete a form for the special work permit online, before mailing it to the Case Processing Centre at the following address:
Case Processing Centre – Edmonton
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Work permits for spouses or common-law partners, Station 777
9700 Jasper Avenue NW, Suite 55
Edmonton, AB T5J 4C3
3) Those who have already been approved in principle for permanent residence without passing medical, security and background checks can apply online.
4) Those who already have a work permit under the pilot will need to apply for an extension before their status lapses.
Interested employers: Kindly contact us here to receive further information.
Interested candidates: Find out whether you qualify to Canada by completing our free on-line evaluation. We will provide you with our evaluation within 1-2 business days.
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