Spousal work permit program extended

OTTAWA – The Canadian government has extended the Spousal Work Permit Pilot Program that allows spouses and common-law partners who are in the country and the subject of immigration applications to apply for a temporary work permit.

The pilot was due to expire  last Thursday but has now been extended to January 31, 2019.

The program is designed to allow spouses and partners to work while their immigration applications are being finalized.

Eligible candidates must be in Canada and in the process of being sponsored for permanent residence under the spouse or common-law partner class. Candidates must also have valid temporary status as a visitor, student or worker.

Persons who have already submitted permanent residence applications can complete the forms for the special work permit online, before mailing them to the Case Processing Centre in Vegreville, Alberta.

Those who have already been approved in principle for permanent residence without passing medical, security and background checks can apply online.

Persons who have a work permit under the initial pilot will need to apply for an extension.