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Canadian Immigration – Open Work Permit to PR

With the influx of individuals from various countries like Ukraine, Turkey, Iran, Sudan and Israel holding open work permits (OWP) in Canada, as well as many Post Graduate or Spousal Open Work Permit holders, the pathway to permanent residency (PR) has become a pressing concern for many. Many of these open work permit programs do not offer an easy path forward to PR. Several programs are better at facilitating this transition.  We’ll provide insights on these programs as well as current trends and insights for self-employed applicants, professionals, investors, and entrepreneurs. 


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Canada Startup Visa Program

The Canadian Start-Up Visa program could become a significant pathway for many applicants seeking permanent residency in Canada. If you are an entrepreneur with a promising business concept (or maybe a co-founder of a great concept), education beyond high school level, relevant work experience related to the concept, and sufficient funds for investment, this pathway provides an ideal means to secure PR status for both the applicant and their dependent family members directly.

Compared to other streams the Startup Visa offers distinct benefits:

* There are no points. Thankfully you just need to meet the eligibility criteria of the program to apply.

* Unlike Express Entry, which is primarily aimed at individuals with Canadian work experience or particularly skilled professionals working for Canadian employers, the Startup Visa is designed for self-employed entrepreneurs looking to start innovative businesses in Canada. 

* The Startup Visa provides a direct path to permanent residency for entrepreneurs and their families, offering stability and the opportunity to contribute long-term to the Canadian economy. This contrasts with other programs that may require lengthy processes or eligibility criteria such as net worth, language, or education requirements.

It is important to note that as of April 30th, 2024, the spots for PR applications based on the Startup Visa program have been limited to 10 groups per designated organization. 


At INGWE we are EXPERTS in the Canada Startup Visa. We will guide and support you throughout the endorsement letter or Letter of Support process and the entire immigration process including work visas and permanent residencies. Get a FREE email assessment, click here.


Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) and Regional Programs

PNP and regional programs are specifically tailored for skilled workers in specific or targeted occupations seeking a seamless conversion to PR. PNPs provide a strategic immigration route, aligning skilled workers with provinces experiencing skill shortages. This targeted approach ensures that immigrants are not just moving to Canada but are integrating into regions where their skills are in high demand, thereby enhancing their chances for successful settlement and employment. The success rate for PR conversion through PNPs is notably high, thanks to the program's design to meet specific regional labor market needs. With the support of an employer and a provincial nomination, applicants have a stronger case for obtaining PR, positioning PNPs as a top-tier option for OWP holders.

If you are in a time crunch, keep in mind that many PNPs provide the option to apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit once your application has received provincial approval. This option enables many applicants to maintain their employment in Canada without interruption while awaiting the final decision on their permanent residence application.


Are you interested in applying for the Canada Investor Visa? At INGWE we are EXPERTS and we can support you throughout the process, we have licensed business immigration professionals ready to help. Get a FREE email assessment, click here.


Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) and Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP)

Similarly to the PNPs, these programs are strategically tailored to boost economic growth in Atlantic regions and rural or northern communities, directly contributing to the industries that are most in need. 

Both pathways offer a simplified and fast-tracked PR application process. This streamlined pathway is a significant advantage for Open Work permit holders seeking a smooth transition to PR, making these programs highly attractive options. 


Canadian Entrepreneur Programs

The Entrepreneur Programs available in Alberta Rural, Nova Scotia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba are tailored for individuals residing in these specific provinces or having familial or social connections within them. These programs are particularly suitable for those who have already made concrete decisions regarding their future business ventures in the local area and have conducted thorough research. By opting for these programs, individuals can not only establish businesses that support themselves and their families but also secure permanent residency status. Additionally, these provinces prioritize applicants who demonstrate genuine intent to reside and contribute to the local community, further enhancing the appeal of these programs.


Individuals running successful businesses in Canada can also explore the option of obtaining a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for an executive position within their company. This can significantly boost their profile in the Express Entry system, enhancing their chances of obtaining permanent residency.

In this scenario, by assuming a managerial role and actively overseeing your own business operations in Canada, engaging in increased business activity, making additional investments, expanding your workforce, and undertaking various operational endeavors, you become eligible to claim 200 points within the Express Entry profile. This presents a valuable opportunity to augment your overall score, thereby enhancing your prospects of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency.

Are you interested in applying for the Canada Investor Visa? At INGWE we are EXPERTS and we can support you throughout the process, we have licensed business immigration professionals ready to help. Get a FREE email assessment, click here.

Conclusion

In summary, navigating the transition from open work permits to permanent residency in Canada requires a strategic approach, especially considering the recent changes to the Canadian regulations for a high number of existing programs. By leveraging programs like SUV, PNP, and entrepreneur pathways, individuals from diverse backgrounds can pave their way to permanent residency status.


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