How can I change my closed WP to open WP?

[Dhruvak]

Hi,

Due to one of the project requirement, my employer made my Closed WP. However, that opportunity is now obsolete.

Is there a way I can change my Closed WP visa to Open WP?
If yes then what is the process?

 

[scylla]

Hi,

Due to one of the project requirement, my employer made my Closed WP. However, that opportunity is now obsolete.

Is there a way I can change my Closed WP visa to Open WP?
If yes then what is the process?

Open work permits are only issued in very specific circumstances. Have you applied for PR? Do you have a spouse in Canada on a study permit or closed work permit (or open work permit such as a PGWP or ICT)?

 

[Dhruvak]

Hi Scylla,

Thank you very much for the reply.

Let me explain my situation in depth.
My employer made my visa ("closed" work permit visa). So, I have the visa stamp in my passport but now that specific project opportunity against which this visa was made is now obsolete/gone.

Now I'm just left with visa stamp in my passport but cant predict my travel date.

So, my question was.
1) Can I switch employer and enter to Canada through any project opportunity of the new employer?
2) Apart from obtaining PR is there any way to enter to Canada?

Please note: I don't have applied for PR or study permit. I don't have a spouse.

 

[zardoz]

Hi Scylla,

Thank you very much for the reply.

Let me explain my situation in depth.
My employer made my visa ("closed" work permit visa). So, I have the visa stamp in my passport but now that specific project opportunity against which this visa was made is now obsolete/gone.

Now I'm just left with visa stamp in my passport but cant predict my travel date.

So, my question was.
1) Can I switch employer and enter to Canada through any project opportunity of the new employer?
2) Apart from obtaining PR is there any way to enter to Canada?

Please note: I don't have applied for PR or study permit. I don't have a spouse.

As your closed work permit is now obsolete, you can apply to change your status to "visitor" and use the available time to search for a new employer and/or a new "closed work permit". You are NOT eligible for an "open work permit" at this time. If you are interested in permanent resident status, you can apply via the available economic immigration classes, if you are eligible.

 

[scylla]

Hi Scylla,

Thank you very much for the reply.

Let me explain my situation in depth.
My employer made my visa ("closed" work permit visa). So, I have the visa stamp in my passport but now that specific project opportunity against which this visa was made is now obsolete/gone.

Now I'm just left with visa stamp in my passport but cant predict my travel date.

So, my question was.
1) Can I switch employer and enter to Canada through any project opportunity of the new employer?
2) Apart from obtaining PR is there any way to enter to Canada?

Please note: I don't have applied for PR or study permit. I don't have a spouse.

1) No. You need to find a new employer and that employer needs to obtain a new approved LMIA. Once the LMIA is approved, you have to apply for a brand new work permit.
2) New work permit (see above), study permit, visitor visa.