Open Work Visa while Applying for Perm Residence

[JonDeaneStewart]

Hi There,

Love the forum and really appreciate all of the guidance and expertise. I've tried searching for this and have read the CIC website but keep getting confused (surprise!)

My wife has applied for Family Class permanent residence and we're in about month 7 with the Los Angeles consulate showing a 22 month wait time (oie!).

We are hoping to move up before she is officially approved and believe she would need a work visa for her to work.

A few quick facts:
I am a Canadian Citizen.
She is American applying for permanent residence.
She is a college graduate and a lactation educator.
We would be moving to Alberta.

What I am confused on is, can she apply for an open work visa while waiting for the permanent residence application to go through? The description does not seem to indicate so but we're not sure how to find her a job otherwise. Is she eligible for the open work visa? How long does it take to go through?

Any past experiences you have on this would be fantastic!

Thank you very much for any help!

Jon

 

[automaton82]

From my understanding, an outland application cannot apply for OWP. You can apply for a temporary work permit (if eligible, presumably by an LMO).

 

[Line.a]

Yes only those who apply inland are entitled to OWP. If you're Outland you will have to extend her stay as a visitor if she wants to stay in Canada during the process.

 

[Line.a]

If you happen to apply inland then the OWP is granted after AIP which is currently taking between 7-10 months.

 

[canuck_in_uk]

What I am confused on is, can she apply for an open work visa while waiting for the permanent residence application to go through? The description does not seem to indicate so but we're not sure how to find her a job otherwise. Is she eligible for the open work visa? How long does it take to go through?

As said above, there is no OWP option for outland applications. She should have a look to see if she qualifies under NAFTA. If not, she could only apply for a work permit with a job offer from an employer with a positive LMO.

 

[JonDeaneStewart]

Thank you all. Though the answer itself is disappointing it is very relieving to finally understand! I appreciate your help.