PMM, Leon, or any senior members please advise. Work permit expire before PR

[ELAR]

Hi guys,

I'm currently living in Canada on a Work Permit NAFTA. I have sent my application to the CIO for FSW2 in Nov. 09. The problem is, my work permit expires in January 2011. Given the current timelines, it looks very tight for getting the PR before my work permit expires.

The question is, as I have applied as FSW2 (permanent job offer with work permit under NAFTA). Can my work permit be extended without affecting my PR process?

Please advise.

 

[susana]

Elar: If you have a work permit under Nafta, it is very easy for you to apply for an extension, if your application is approved, CIC will request a valid work permit in order to stamp your PR visa in your passport. If you are going to stay in Canada until your application is approved, you need to have a valid legal status. Apply for your work permit extension now. It takes about 3 months to get the work permit extended.

According to the CIC web site if you apply under Arranged Employment:

1) If you are currently working in Canada:

•your current employer must have made an offer to give you a permanent job if you are accepted as a federal skilled worker, and
•your temporary work permit must be valid both when you apply for a permanent resident visa and when the visa is issued.
In addition:

•your work permit must have been confirmed by Human Resources and Social Development Canada (HRSDC) through a positive labour market opinion or
•you must be in a category that is exempt from an Arranged Employment Opinion
in order for your offer of employment to be valid.

Susana

 

[ELAR]

Thanks Susana,

"The question is, as I have applied as FSW2 (permanent job offer with work permit under NAFTA). Can my work permit be extended without affecting my current PR process? Based on my leadtimes as:

Work permit validity - Jan 31, 2011

NS receipt file FSW2- Nov. 13. 2009
Estimated ARO - Jan 31, 2010
Estimated file submitting to Buffalo - Feb, 3. 2010.
Almost a year for trying to get the PR.

Almost a year for trying to get my PR Visa, do you think I could make it? or Can my work permit be extended without affecting my current PR process?

 

[Leon]

Extending the work permit will not affect your PR process.

 

[ELAR]

Thanks Leon.