The Canadian government has announced a deadline extension for open work permit applications under the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident (TRPR) pathway, allowing eligible applicants to continue working in Canada while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application. This extension now runs until December 31, 2026, offering more flexibility for applicants and their family members. Here’s a detailed guide on eligibility, application steps, and what this means for you.
What Is the TRPR Open Work Permit Policy?
The TRPR open work permit policy is designed for applicants who submitted their permanent residence (PR) applications under one of the TRPR pathways in 2021. The policy allows eligible applicants to:
- Maintain their temporary resident status in Canada
- Work in any occupation and for any employer while their PR application is being processed
This extension applies not only to principal applicants but also to their eligible family members.
Who Can Apply for an Open Work Permit?
To qualify for the TRPR open work permit, applicants must meet five key requirements:
1. Residency
Applicants must currently reside in Canada.
2. TRPR Pathway Application
Applicants must have applied under one of the TRPR pathways, including:
- Workers in essential occupations (health and non-health)
- French-speaking workers in essential occupations (health and non-health)
- Recent international graduates from a Canadian post-secondary institution
- French-speaking international graduates
- Applicants using an alternative format (paper, Braille, large print)
Evidence of submission, such as an IRCC email confirmation or a Client Support Centre letter, is required.
3. Authorized to Work
Applicants must have been legally authorized to work when submitting their PR application, through:
- A valid work permit
- Authorization to work without a work permit
- Authorization under any public policy
4. Language Requirements
Applicants must meet the language requirements for their PR pathway using valid results from an approved language test, with specific tests for French-speaking streams.
5. Immigration Status
Applicants must either have valid temporary resident status, have maintained status, or be eligible to restore their status at the time of application. Refugee claimants waiting for a decision or appealing a decision may also qualify.
Family Members Eligible for an Open Work Permit
Family members of principal applicants may also apply if they meet the following criteria:
- Spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child of the principal applicant
- Aged 18 or older
- Within or outside Canada
- Included as accompanying family members in the PR application
- Applying online alongside the principal applicant
Family members in Canada must also maintain valid status or be eligible to restore it.
When Can You Apply?
- Current work permit holders: Up to 4 months before the expiry of your existing permit.
- Family members: Any time after the principal applicant submits the PR application.
- Other applicants: Anytime if maintaining status, eligible to restore status, or applying as a family member of a principal applicant.
How to Apply Online for the Open Work Permit
Applicants must submit their applications online. Port of entry applications are not allowed. Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Prepare Your Documents
- Scanner or camera for electronic copies
- Valid credit or debit card for fee payment
Step 2: Pay Your Fees
- Work permit processing fee: CAN$155
- Open work permit holder fee (CAN$100) is waived under this policy
Keep your receipt to upload during your application.
Step 3: Create or Sign In to Your Online Account
Use your account to:
- Submit forms
- Check application status
Step 4: Generate Document Checklist
Answer questions to receive a personalized checklist based on whether you are in Canada or abroad.
Step 5: Complete Forms and Enter Job Details
- Box 1: Select “Open work permit”
- Box 4: Enter “TRPR pathway PP OWP” for initial permits or “TRPR pathway PP OWP-EXT” for extensions
- Include your PR stream in the brief description of duties
- Choose a start date and end date (no later than December 31, 2026)
Key Benefits of the Extended Deadline
- Work flexibility: Continue working in any job while your PR application is processed
- Peace of mind: Maintain legal status in Canada
- Family inclusivity: Spouses, partners, and adult children can work under this policy as well
Important Considerations
- Applications must be accurate and complete to avoid delays or refusal
- Keep all personal information, PR application details, and supporting documents ready
- Fees must be paid before submitting the online application
- Open work permits issued under this policy are valid until December 31, 2026
The extension of the open work permit application deadline to December 31, 2026 provides a crucial opportunity for TRPR pathway applicants and their families to maintain status and employment in Canada. By applying online and following the proper steps, eligible individuals can continue working legally while awaiting permanent residence decisions.
This extension ensures that no applicant loses work authorization due to processing delays and supports the smooth transition from temporary resident to permanent resident status.