IRCC is launching a new initiative that aims to support family reunions as part of Canada’s immigration strategy. The application can now be filed on behalf of a spouse, partner, or dependent of a person who is currently in Canada as a student, temporary worker, permanent resident, or Canadian citizen. Now, outland applicants can apply for an open work permit.
It was previously only possible for an individual to apply for an open work permit if they were sponsored from within Canada or were already residing there on a temporary residence visa (TRV). With this new approach, open work permits are now available for those applying from outside of Canada (outland sponsorship).
Moreover, those who are married, living in a common-law relationship, in a conjugal relationship. Also, with dependent children who are over 18 are classified as family members.
A year will pass before IRCC processes any spousal sponsorship applications.
Canada’s open work permit – It’s eligibility
As per the regulations set by IRCC, family members residing at the same address as their Canadian sponsor, holding valid & maintained temporary resident status, and meeting specific eligibility criteria, can apply for an open work permit. Furthermore, IRCC officials have the authority to grant open work permits to foreign nationals who meet the defined requirements.
The foreign nationals must meet the following requirements:
- They have submitted a permanent residence application under the spouse or common law partner in Canada or as a spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner under the family class, which is accepted by IRCC.
- They have submitted a work permit application, requesting a maximum duration of two years.
- They are the subject of a sponsorship application filed by their Canadian citizen or permanent resident spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner.
- They share the same residential address as their Canadian sponsor at the time of application.
- They possess valid temporary resident status in Canada or are eligible for and have applied for the restoration of their status.
or the foreign newcomers is:
- They have been included as accompanying family members in the application for permanent residence.
- They have submitted a work permit application, requesting a maximum duration of two years.
- They share the same residential address as the principal applicant. And their sponsor in Canada at the time of the application.
- They possess valid temporary resident status in Canada or are eligible for and have applied for the restoration of their status.
Family reunification in Canada continues to be a priority
The aforementioned action was announced by Immigration Minister Sean Fraser on May 26.
A number of family reunification policies have been introduced, such as open work permits for outrageous spousal sponsorship:
- Accelerated processing times for temporary resident visa (TRV) applications specifically for spousal applicants.
- Introduction of dedicated processing tools tailored to streamline the processing of spousal temporary resident visa (TRV) applications.
- Extension of open work permits for individuals with expiring open work permits between August 1st and the end of 2023.
The IRCC, according to Fraser, is dedicated to reuniting families more rapidly. As well as enabling them to start working and supporting themselves more soon once they arrive. He claimed that by doing this, Canada strengthens its economy and social fiber while also assisting recent immigrants in realizing their full potential.
