The Canadian government announced a new temporary policy for certain foreign nationals under the Provincial Nominee Program.

Key Points:

• The new policy allows eligible foreign nationals seeking to apply for permanent residency under a Provincial Nominee Program to be issued an open work permit more quickly.
• Foreign nationals must hold an employment offer, a valid work permit or have held a valid work permit as of May 7, and a support letter from the province or territory they reside in outlining their placement in an Expression of Interest pool or other application inventory process.
• The policy expires Dec. 31, and additional details on eligibility can be found here.

Additional Information: The temporary policy allows foreign nationals to work sooner within the nomination and permanent residence process. Previously, applicants have submitted a permanent residence application and received a nomination from the province/territory before being eligible for an open work permit.

BAL Analysis: The Canadian government is hoping to support provinces and territories that are transitioning eligible temporary residents to permanent status via the Provincial Nominee programs.