IRCC Announces New Open Work Permit Guidelines for Start-up Visa (SUV) Applicants
March 28, 2025
The Government of Canada has implemented a major enhancement to the Start-up Visa (SUV) program, with increased flexibility and options for entrepreneurs to start their businesses in Canada. Under the new Work Permit Guidelines, as of October 3, 2024, eligible permanent resident applicants under the SUV program will be able to receive open work permits during the permanent residence processing phase.
This landmark update simplifies earlier employer-dependent work permit restrictions, allowing entrepreneurially inclined founders to make lasting contributions to the Canadian economy without delay.
What This Means for SUV Applicants?
Earlier, candidates applying under the Start-up Visa category had to seek employer-specific work permits, limiting them to work only for their start-up company. The Work Permit Guidelines issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now enable applicants to apply for an open work permit, offering them more freedom to work in Canada. This implies that while waiting for their permanent residency approval, SUV applicants can now seek other job opportunities, establish useful contacts, and integrate further into Canadian society.
Key Highlights of the New SUV Work Permit Guidelines Policy
- Open Work Permits for Eligible SUV Applicants
- Eligible SUV applicants are now eligible to apply for an open work permit rather than an employer-specific work permit.
- This shift enables business owners to take up various career opportunities while working on their entrepreneurial ventures.
- Port of Entry Application for Visa-Exempt Nationals
- Temporary resident visa-exempt foreign nationals are eligible to apply for a work permit under the International Mobility Program (IMP) at the port of entry directly.
- But because of the complexity of the application process, IRCC highly recommends that applicants apply for their work permits online with administrative code A77.
- No Changes for Pre-October 3, 2024, Applications
- Work permit applications submitted before October 3, 2024, will continue to be processed under the previous employer-specific work permit guidelines.
Why Is This Update a Game-Changer?
Enhanced Flexibility and Job Opportunities
The open work permit enables SUV applicants to acclimate to professional life in Canada during the period before they receive their permanent residency. Under the Work Permit Guidelines, the permit assists them in acclimatizing to the labor market, networking with potential investors, and contributing to Canada’s expanding economy.
Reduced Processing Hassles
Employer-specific work permits sometimes necessitate further documentation and compliance from employers. The transition to open work permits streamlines the process, limiting administrative requirements on applicants and their supporting businesses. The most recent Work Permit Guidelines indicate that the transition is meant to offer more flexibility for international workers while ensuring Canadian labor market stability.
Stronger Integration into the Canadian Economy
By enabling SUV applicants to contribute to the workforce outside of their initial stage, Canada makes them well-established in society. This amendment also concurs with the Work Permit Guidelines, enhancing their economic stability while growing and developing their businesses.
How Can We Help?
Immigration procedures can be intricate, and keeping abreast of IRCC’s changing policies is important for a seamless transition to Canada. We are Canadian immigration specialists and can help Start-up Visa applicants with:
- Work Permit Applications: Confirming that proper documents are forwarded to IRCC.
- Permanent Residence Guidance: Helping business owners to fill in their PR applications successfully.
- Legal Consultation: Offers expert opinion on immigration policy and business compliance in Canada.
Get Expert Guidance Today!
If you’re an entrepreneur contemplating the Start-up Visa (SUV) program, now is the ideal moment to capitalize on these new work permit opportunities. Stay informed on the latest immigration news.
If you want to know more details about “IRCC Announces New Open Work Permit Guidelines for Start-up Visa (SUV) Applicants“ you can contact one of our immigration specialists at Gunness & Associates.
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