Canada makes work permit access easier for provincial nominees awaiting PR processing

Mikaela Ariar, Philippine Canadian Inquirer
June 16, 2026

Photo Courtesy: Immilaw Global

CANADA – The Immigration department presented temporary measures for Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) applicants and their spouses to acquire work permits in an easier manner, while waiting for their permanent residence (PR) applications to be processed.

The effectivity of the said action was June 9, 2026, along with the publication of the operational bulletin. The eligible applicants inside the country does not have to wait for an acknowledgement receipt (AOR) before applying for specific work permits, assisting in maintaining the legal authorization to work.

Applicant for PNP bridging open work permits (BOWPs), employer-specific work permits linked to expired nominations, and eligible spousal open work permits can submit alternative proof instead of an AOR. It includes an email confirming PR application submission and proof of payment, however, officers may verify eligibility directly through IRCC’s internal systems. AOR must still be provided by the applicant when received.

The policy was presented due to long processing delays for AORs that have left many provincial nominees at risk of losing their work authorization while waiting for the acknowledgement of PR applications.

According to reports, some applicants in late 2024 waited almost one year for an AOR. The measures, which applies only to those already in Canada and remain in effect until December 31, 2026, are intended to bridge this gap and assist workers maintain their status while processing their applications.