Help please (status change)

[trueblue88]

Hello,

I’m working in Canada through an open work permit that will expire in one week. I applied to Express Entry and I was accepted in the pool, but I haven’t received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) yet because I only have 438 points.

Can I apply to change my status as visitor, and simultaneously send another application for an Open Work Bridge Permit? I still don’t have an AOR but I was planning to attach a Letter of Explanation indicating that I was accepted in the pool and that I’m waiting for ITA. Or would this work permit application affect negatively my visitor application?

I’ve been in a common law relationship with a Canadian citizen for 9 months. Can I get an open work permit as her common law?

What options I have to continue working?

Thanks.

 

[scylla]

You can certainly change your status to visitor.

You don't qualify for a BOWP. To qualify for a BOWP you need AOR and your work permit must still be valid. If you submit a BOWP application it will be refused.

No - you don't qualify for an open work permit based on living with a Canadian citizen.

Your only option to continue working is for your employer to obtain an LMIA so that you can apply for a closed work permit.