Public Policy for Iranians: Open Work Permit
The Open Work Permit for Iranians is a new pathway introduced by the Government of Canada on October 7, 2022, for Iranians who are temporarily residing in Canada. This program allows Iranian nationals residing in Canada to convert their temporary visa into an open work permit and work for any employer in Canada without restrictions.
Eligibility Requirements for the Open Work Permit for Iranians:
Physical presence in Canada
Valid Iranian passport
Valid temporary residency status (tourist, student, or work visa)
Application Process:
Ensure that you are in Canada with a valid temporary visa.
Prepare the required documents, including your valid passport, identity documents, proof of financial stability, police clearance certificate, and medical certificate.
Submit your application through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website and complete the necessary forms.
Validity Period:
The open work permit for Iranians is typically issued for a period of two to three years.
Benefits:
The ability to work for any employer in Canada without the need for a job offer
Opportunity to gain Canadian work experience
Eligibility for permanent residency through various immigration programs
Path to Permanent Residency:
Open work permit holders can use their Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class) or provincial nominee programs.
Important Notes:
Physical presence in Canada is mandatory for applying for this permit.
This program is valid until February 28, 2025, so applicants must enter Canada and submit their applications before this date.
Work Permits in Canada:
A work permit allows foreign nationals to work temporarily in Canada. It can be issued as an Open Work Permit (no job offer required) or a Employer-Specific Work Permit (job offer required).
Visitor Visa for Accompanying Family Members:
Work permit holders in Canada can apply for a visitor visa for their family members (spouse and dependent children) to allow them to join the applicant in Canada.
Application Process for Visitor Visa:
Complete the relevant forms: Forms must be filled out for each family member applying for a visitor visa.
Submit required documents: Include identity documents, proof of family relationship, financial evidence to show the ability to support the family in Canada, and information regarding the main applicant’s residency and employment status.
Pay applicable fees: Fees for processing the visa application must be paid.
Medical examination (if required): Some applicants may need to undergo a medical examination.
Submit the application to IRCC: Once the documents and forms are completed, submit the application online or through the Visa Application Centers (VAC).
Important Notes:
Processing time: The time required for processing the applications varies and depends on different circumstances.
Visa extension: Visitor visas for family members can be extended if necessary.
Work permit for spouse: In some cases, the spouse of the main applicant can apply for an open work permit and work in Canada.
For more detailed information or personalized advice, it is recommended to contact a licensed immigration consultant or visit the official IRCC website.