Sponsored spouses, partners, and their dependent children can enter Canada as temporary residents during the processing of a family class sponsorship application. In May, IRCC introduced a temporary public policy of work permits for sponsored family members. It allows them to work while their applications are reviewed. This policy extends open work permits to applicants outside Canada. It includes dependent children over 18, previously limited to inland spousal sponsorship.
In addition to fostering families’ integration into their communities and maintaining financial stability. Open-work permits will also ease the labor shortages and stimulate the economy, claims the IRCC.
Work permits for sponsored family members – About Its eligibility
Foreign nationals who meet either of the following conditions may be eligible for an open work permit, subject to the discretion of IRCC officers:
If the applicant is
- The principal applicant has submitted a permanent residence application as a spouse or common-law partner in Canada or under the family class. As well as it has been accepted for processing by IRCC.
- The principal applicant has submitted a work permit application with a maximum duration of two years.
- The principal applicant is the subject of a sponsorship application filed by their Canadian citizen or permanent resident spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner.
- The principal applicant shares the same residential address as their sponsor in Canada at the time of application.
- The principal applicant holds valid temporary resident status in Canada. Also, he/she is eligible for restoration of status and has applied for it.
or, if the applicant is
- The dependent child has been included as an accompanying family member in the application for permanent residence.
- The dependent child has submitted a work permit application with a maximum duration of two years.
- The dependent child shares the same residential address as the principal applicant and their sponsor in Canada at the time of the application.
- The dependent child holds valid temporary resident status in Canada. Also, he/she is eligible for restoration of status and has applied for it.
Announcement of policies to promote family reunification
The Minister of IRCC, Sean Fraser, announced enhancements to strengthen family class immigration and family reunions in Canada on May 26.
Along with the new option for open work permits, these steps include the following:
- Processing times for temporary resident visas (TRV) for spouses are faster.
- For spouses applying for TRV, new and dedicated tools have been developed.
- Holders of open work permits whose permits expire between August 1st and the end of 2023 may apply for extensions of their permits.
According to him, these actions reflect IRCC’s commitment to family reunification. And its importance as a part of Canadian immigration policy.
