Get Open Work Permit? Already Have Closed Work Permit

[Giterdone]

I have a closed work permit that expires in 9 months and I'm wondering if it makes sense to apply for an open work permit with my common-law sponsorship. If yes, does it also make sense to try to get another closed work permit as a backup plan? I wouldn't be applying for both simultaneously, I would apply for the open work permit and have my employer go through the process to get another LMIA.

Then if the open work permit didn't go through, we could use the LMIA to get another closed work permit. I'm not sure the likelihood of the open work permit going through, so I don't know if it makes sense to go through the time and expense. Any feedback would be helpful.

 

[simoneleah]

If you're applying for an inland spousal sponsorship, the open work permit is an extra $255 and will be processed in about 3-4 months from the time you applied. Currently, they are taking about 3 months (I applied September 18 and was approved on December 13).

Having the OWP gives you more freedom, but if you're happy with you job and trust that they can and will go through the process to get you a closed work permit, that may be fine for you.

You should expect the spousal sponsorship to take a year from the date you apply to be processed. However, at the moment, applicants from June/July 2019 are currently getting their Decision Made/Landing Interviews (so it's currently at about 6-7 months). That may be one factor in your decision, but you should use your best judgement.

 

[canuck_in_uk]

I have a closed work permit that expires in 9 months and I'm wondering if it makes sense to apply for an open work permit with my common-law sponsorship. If yes, does it also make sense to try to get another closed work permit as a backup plan? I wouldn't be applying for both simultaneously, I would apply for the open work permit and have my employer go through the process to get another LMIA.

Then if the open work permit didn't go through, we could use the LMIA to get another closed work permit. I'm not sure the likelihood of the open work permit going through, so I don't know if it makes sense to go through the time and expense. Any feedback would be helpful.

If you don't want to change your job, save your money don't apply for anything right now. A few weeks before your current permit expires, if you haven't received PR, apply for the OWP.

The OWP is based on submitting an inland sponsorship app, so as long as you pay the right fee and sign the form, it will be approved.