Canada has Finally Launched the Open Work Permit for H-1B Visa holders- Apply now

On 27 June 2023, Canadian Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser announced this measure to keep highly skilled workers in North America. Hence, now, any individual with a valid H-1B Specialty Occupations visa living in the USA can apply for OWP.

Open Work Permit for H-1B Visa holders

As an H-1B holder, you can get an open work permit for up to 3 years. You will not be able to get an extension under this measure, however, you can get the same under another program. This temporary measure will last for one year or until the IRCC receives 10,000 applications (whichever comes first). Hence, it is suggested to apply as soon as possible before this initiative closes for new applications.

Who can apply

To be eligible for this temporary scheme, you need to

• have a valid H-1B specialty occupation visa and
• presently live in the USA

Regarding Bringing your family

Below family members staying in the US can apply to accompany you to Canada, i.e.

• your spouse
• your common-law partner
• your dependent children

They can come as either:

• a visitor
• a student
• a worker

In case, your family members are not found eligible to come under this scheme, they may be eligible to come as family members of highly skilled workers.

Eligibility requirement for H-1B open work permit

To apply, you require the following

• a copy of your current H-1B visa
• Form I-797/I797B, Notice of Action
  • This is a letter from the US government confirming your H-1B application was approved.
• proof that you live in the US, such as
  • Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record
  • a recent utility bill
  • an income tax report
  • any document that proves you live in the US

H-1B open work permit Process

• The IRCC will check your application to ensure that you have all the essential documents, including biometrics.

 

• An officer will also check that you

• qualify for a work permit
• you are admissible to Canada

• IRCC may also ask you to

• go to an interview with the officials
• send more information or documents

• If your work permit application is approved, you will get an approval letter. This letter is called the port of entry letter of introduction.

This letter should be with you when you arrive in Canada and present it at the port of entry. However, this letter is not your work permit. You will only get your work permit at the port of entry the day you land in Canada. The work permit will outline as to how long you can work and the conditions you can work under.

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To know more and apply for the OWP as H-1B Holder, you may get in touch with Visas Avenue- the most trusted Visa Consultant for Canada. You may call VA Canada migration expert on Toll-Free No. 78-18-000-777 or you can drop us an e-mail at info@visasavenue.com.

- Rajneesh Kumar