Key facts
- Canada has introduced temporary measures allowing certain Provincial Nominee Program applicants and their spouses to obtain work permits sooner.
- These changes aim to prevent work authorization loss due to immigration document delays.
- Applicants can apply for eligible work permits without first receiving an acknowledgement of receipt for their permanent residence application.
- Alternative proof, such as confirmation of online filing and fee payment, is accepted.
- The temporary policy is effective until December 31, 2026.
- The measures apply only to work permit applications submitted from within Canada.
Canada has implemented temporary measures to allow certain Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants and their spouses to obtain work permits more quickly while awaiting permanent residency processing. These changes, effective from June 9 until December 31, 2026, are designed to prevent individuals from losing their authorization to work in Canada due to delays in receiving immigration documents.
Under the new policy, foreign nationals applying for permanent residence through the PNP can apply for eligible work permits without first having an acknowledgement of receipt (AOR) for their permanent residence application. This includes bridging open work permits, employer-specific work permits tied to expired nominations, and open work permits for spouses of PNP applicants.