Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced an important program delivery update affecting foreign workers in Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) expression of interest pools.

The public policy allowing open work permits for eligible foreign nationals in a PNP expression of interest pool has been extended until December 31, 2025. This policy was previously set to expire on December 31, 2024.

Under this policy, foreign nationals may apply for an open work permit valid for up to 2 years if they:

• Are currently employed in the province or territory issuing the support letter, and
• Have received a support letter from their province or territory of residence confirming eligibility.

Participation in this policy requires the province or territory to sign a letter of intent (LOI) with IRCC. The participating jurisdictions are:

• Manitoba
• Yukon

Alberta was previously included; however, Alberta is no longer participating. Foreign workers in Alberta remain eligible only if they were issued an open work permit support letter on or before December 31, 2024.

This extended public policy remains in effect until December 31, 2025.