twist_freeride

Hi,

I will soon be submitting my PNP application and I am currently on an IEC visa. My issue is that my IEC runs out at the end of May and the wait times for the PNP to be processed is now 9 months.

Am I right in thinking that I cannot get a bridging visa until after my PNP is approved? Are my only options to either go on a visitor visa while I wait, or get my employer to apply for an LMIA before my IEC runs out?

Any other options?

Thanks!

christmasoompa

You've got it! Those are your only options until you've got nomination, unless you can get another IEC in the 2015 program?

Good luck.

twist_freeride

Thank you, while on a bridging visa can I work part-time for another employer?

christmasoompa

As the name implies, a BOWP is an open work permit - so you can work for pretty much whoever you choose.

chrisflats

Hi, I'm in the same position and would hate to not work whilst I'm waiting to hear back from the PNP .. are LMIAs easy to get??

Thanks!

christmasoompa

Not usually, no.

To get the LMIA granted, your employer has to prove that they've advertised the job across Canada and been unable to find a Canadian willing, or able, to do it. Plus they have to pay $1000 for the LMIA application.

So it really does depend on what you do - if you have specialist skills not easily found in Canada, and your employer is desperate to keep you, then the LMIA would usually be granted, but if you're in a job that a Canadian might apply for (your employer would need to re-advertise it for 4 weeks, even if you're currently doing it) then it's going to be much more tricky. What do you do?

HTH.

chrisflats

Thanks

I'm a cook/chef and not sure my company will be able to get the LMIA then. My best bet is to get another IEC when they're released I guess

christmasoompa

Possibly a LMIA isn't likely then, but if you're employers prepared to apply it may be worth a try?

Which province are you in and when was your PNP app sent? Some provinces are much quicker so you may well have nomination in plenty of time before the next IEC opens.

Good luck.

Mikeypm

My employer applied for an LMIA back in June and still don't have an answer back. Luckily I had my PER through on my PR app and applied for a BOWP which was approved on the 20.10.2014, I'm just awaiting the physical work permit to arrive via Canada Post.

chrisflats

BC

Hopefully it'll all work out, thanks for the advice!

Eddmac

I applied for BC PNP in May and received it yesterday, if that's any help to you in terms of timelines (5 months).

Mikeypm

Wow that's pretty slow as now you need to send your app to CIC and have that additional processing time on top.

Eddmac

Really? I know the processing time was being quoted at 8 to 9 months so i thought 5 was good lol.

Mikeypm

I went FSW2 did medical and paid RPRF on Monday

Eddmac

Congrats