October 8, 2024
Important Update on Canada’s Start-Up Visa Program: New Open Work Permit Option
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced a significant update to the Start-Up Visa Program, effective 3 October 2024, that allows applicants deemed essential on their Letter of Support to request a three-year open work permit while awaiting a decision on their permanent residence application.
What is the Start-Up Visa Program?
The Start-Up Visa Program is designed to attract innovative entrepreneurs from around the world to launch and build their businesses in Canada (outside Quebec). By partnering with designated organizations, successful applicants can secure permanent residency to Canada.
The New Open Work Permit Option
If you have already applied for permanent residence through the Start-Up Visa Program and have been identified as essential, you now have the opportunity to apply for an optional open work permit valid for up to three years.
Key Benefits of the Open Work Permit:
- The open work permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada. This means you can supplement your income while continuing to develop your start-up.
- The ability to work as an entrepreneur lets you focus on growing your business without the limitations of an employer-specific work permit. This is particularly beneficial for those who may need to seek additional support as their start-up evolves.
- The open work permit is valid for a substantial period, which gives you ample time to establish your business and secure your permanent resident status.
How to Apply for the Open Work Permit?
If you applied before 3 October 2024, you initially applied for an employer-specific work permit, which restricts you to working only for your start-up. To take advantage of this new option and switch to an open work permit, you need to submit a new application and pay the applicable fees. This is possible even if you have already received your employer-specific work permit.
For detailed instructions and to navigate this update, please visit the IRCC website.
This update is a welcome change for many entrepreneurs, providing them with the flexibility to support themselves and their families while awaiting their permanent residence decisions. Stay tuned for more updates. If you have any questions or need assistance with your application, please contact our team for more information.
Lijing Cao
Lijing’s practice encompasses a broad range of Canadian immigration matters, including all categories of work permit applications under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and the International Mobility Program, citizenship, labour market impact assessments, study permits, temporary resident permits, and sponsorship applications. She also advises entrepreneurs, business owners, international students and skilled workers on the options for permanent residence to Canada, including provincial nominee programs, Start-up Visa, Federal Skilled Worker, and Canadian Experience Class programs.
Lijing graduated from the University of Toronto with a Master of Laws (LL.M.) and holds a Juris Doctor degree from Hong Kong. She is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese Chinese. Prior to joining Bellissimo Law Group, Lijing worked as an associate lawyer at a boutique business immigration firm, where she provided advice to corporate clients to fulfill their workforce mobility and labour shortage needs.