IRCC Introduces Work Permits for Yukon Nominee Program Candidates

The Canadian government has announced a new policy that will grant work permits to foreign nationals working in Yukon under the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP). This move will allow these workers to continue their employment in Yukon while their permanent residence applications are being processed.

On October 1st, 2024, Immigration Minister Marc Miller shared that up to 215 YNP candidates could benefit from this temporary measure. It aims to ensure that eligible individuals can stay and work in Yukon legally while waiting for their permanent residency status.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for these work permits, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be employed by a Yukon employer and have legal work status in Canada.
• Have applied to the Yukon Nominee Program (YNP).
• Be supported by the Government of Yukon.
• Demonstrate that they are likely to receive permanent residency by 2025 or 2026.
• Fulfill all other YNP program requirements.
  
  

Part of a Broader Initiative

This Yukon-specific measure is part of a larger plan by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). In September, the IRCC introduced a temporary policy offering open work permits to candidates from various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

This policy aligns with the IRCC's broader goals of addressing labor market needs in provinces and helping more temporary residents transition to permanent residency. The IRCC is also working to reduce the proportion of temporary residents in Canada from 6.5% to 5% by 2027.

Before Yukon, similar measures were implemented for nominees in Alberta and Manitoba.

Scaling Back Temporary Resident Programs

Additionally, on September 18th, 2024, Minister Miller announced a reduction in temporary resident programs over the next three years. The changes are expected to result in:

• 300,000 fewer study permit holders.
• 175,000 fewer post-graduation work permits (PGWPs).
• 150,000 fewer spousal work permits.
  
  

Upcoming Immigration Levels Plan

Looking ahead, IRCC will release its annual Immigration Levels Plan on November 1st, 2024. This plan will set immigration targets for the coming year and provide provisional targets for the following two years. Significant changes are anticipated, especially regarding temporary resident levels.

Stay tuned for further updates as these new policies continue to shape the future of immigration in Canada.