In a sudden and unexpected move, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has closed the Open Work Permit (OWP) program for foreign workers nominated under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) in Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon. The program, which allowed eligible candidates to obtain an open work permit with a provincial support letter, is now marked as “Closed to new applicants” on IRCC’s official website.
A Sudden Shift in IRCC’s Open Work Permit Policy
Earlier this year, IRCC had announced an extension of the Temporary Public Policy for Open Work Permits, allowing eligible nominees from Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon to apply for open work permits until December 31, 2025. However, without any formal public announcement, the program has now been closed to new applicants.
Foreign workers who previously qualified for this program were required to meet strict eligibility criteria, including:
- A valid or recently expired work permit
- Valid temporary resident status in Canada
- A job offer or letter of employment
- A provincial support letter under the PNP
Despite these established requirements, new applications are no longer being accepted under this policy, leaving many prospective applicants in uncertainty.
Manitoba’s Unclear Position on the Open Work Permit Program
Adding to the confusion, the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) initially confirmed on January 21, 2025, that IRCC planned to extend the Open Work Permit policy until the end of 2025. However, on February 4, 2025, a further update suggested that the details for Manitoba were still being finalized, and the previously shared IRCC policy link was no longer valid.
The abrupt closure of this program without prior notice raises concerns for foreign workers and immigration professionals who rely on consistent and transparent policy updates. While IRCC has not yet provided an official explanation, this unexpected change underscores the importance of staying informed and acting quickly when immigration policies are in effect.
What Should Foreign Workers Do Now?
For foreign workers in Alberta, Manitoba, and Yukon who were planning to apply under this policy, the closure presents a significant challenge. Without access to open work permits, many nominees may face work restrictions, requiring them to seek employer-specific permits or alternative pathways to remain employed in Canada. Applicants who were considering this program should explore other work permit options, such as employer-specific work permits, bridging open work permits (if applicable), or employer-driven PNP streams that provide direct pathways to permanent residency. Consulting with immigration professionals and monitoring IRCC updates will be crucial in navigating this change effectively.
Stay Updated on Canadian Immigration Policies
Canada’s immigration landscape continues to evolve, and this latest development serves as a reminder that policies can change without advance notice. For foreign workers and PNP nominees, staying updated on IRCC’s latest announcements is crucial to making informed decisions about their immigration and employment plans.
As immigration policies evolve, staying updated with official IRCC announcements is crucial. The Canada Time keeps you informed with the latest Canadian immigration updates.
