Last Updated on March 12, 2025
In a move that has taken many by surprise, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has closed the Open Work Permit program for foreign workers nominated under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon. This sudden decision contradicts an earlier extension of the policy, which was set to remain in effect until December 31, 2025. Without any formal public announcement, IRCC has now marked the program as “Closed to new applicants” on its official website, leaving many prospective applicants in uncertainty.
Unexpected Policy Change Leaves Applicants in Limbo
Earlier this year, IRCC confirmed that the Temporary Public Policy for Open Work Permits would continue to allow eligible nominees in Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon to apply for work permits until the end of 2025. This policy was designed to provide flexibility for PNP nominees by allowing them to work for any employer while awaiting permanent residency.
However, despite this prior commitment, the program has now been closed without advance notice. The lack of clarity surrounding this decision raises concerns among foreign workers, employers, and immigration professionals who depend on predictable policies for work authorization and settlement planning.
Eligibility Criteria No Longer Applicable
Before its closure, the Open Work Permit program had specific eligibility requirements that foreign workers needed to meet, including:
- Holding a valid or recently expired work permit
- Maintaining valid temporary resident status in Canada
- Possessing a job offer or employment letter
- Obtaining a provincial support letter under the PNP
Even with these established criteria, new applications are no longer being accepted under this policy, forcing many foreign workers to reconsider their work permit options.
Manitoba’s Unclear Position Adds to the Confusion
The situation is particularly uncertain for applicants in Manitoba. On January 21, 2025, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) confirmed that the Open Work Permit policy would remain in place until the end of 2025. However, by February 4, 2025, updates suggested that Manitoba’s participation was still being finalized, and the previously shared IRCC policy link was no longer accessible. This inconsistency adds another layer of complexity for those who had planned to apply under the Manitoba stream, highlighting the importance of staying informed on policy developments.
What Should Affected Foreign Workers Do Now?
With this policy no longer available, foreign workers in Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon must explore alternative work permit options to remain employed in Canada. Some potential alternatives include:
1. Employer-Specific Work Permits
Workers may need to secure a job offer from a Canadian employer and apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-based work permit or an LMIA-exempt employer-specific permit under different programs.
2. Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP)
Those who have already submitted a permanent residence application and meet eligibility criteria may qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) to continue working while awaiting a decision.
3. Employer-Driven PNP Streams
Some provincial programs offer employer-driven streams that provide work permits tied to specific employers, which could be an alternative for those affected by the OWP closure.
Staying Updated: A Must for Foreign Workers
This unexpected change underscores the dynamic nature of Canadian immigration policies. Without prior notice, significant shifts like this can impact applicants’ plans and employment stability. Given the evolving landscape, it is crucial for foreign workers, employers, and immigration professionals to stay updated with IRCC’s latest announcements.
Need Expert Guidance? Growing Globe Immigration Can Help!
If you are affected by this policy change and need professional advice on your work permit options, Growing Globe Immigration is here to assist. Our team of experts can help you navigate employer-specific work permits, bridging open work permits, and PNP alternatives to ensure you maintain your legal work status in Canada. Contact Growing Globe Immigration today for personalized immigration solutions!
