sarahwoolley

Hi everyone!

I've just been introduced to this forum and I can't believe I haven't found it before! I have LOTS of questions... ;-)

So, here comes the first of many questions no doubt. I apologise now!

My husband has been going through the BC PNP application process and recently had this approved for his new job in BC which starts in January. Now, he has been told by BC PNP that he needs to apply for a work permit which he is doing through CIC but we are both extremely confused about what to do with me. I am going with him but I have no work lined up so I believe I need to apply for an Open Work Permit but we are both confused about how we should be doing this. Does he apply on my behalf or do I also need to submit a separate application? Or, as someone else has suggested, do I wait until I get to the airport at Vancouver and apply there?

My intention is to re-start my photography business once I'm there, although I may look for a part-time job in the first instance until this is up and running. My husband will be teaching at the JIBC and has secured a two year contract but we suspect we'll be applying for PR once we're there.

I hope that all makes sense - it's been a while since I've delved into forums! And I hope someone can help with our confusion!

Former Lancastrian

Simplest answer.
If eligible to apply for a Spousal Work Permit at a Port Of Entry (i.e UK citizen on a UK passport) then do it on entering Canada at the POE. Pay the $155 work permit fee and $100 processing fee at the POE and that's it no forms to fill out. What skill level is your husband? You will also need to apply for the eTA so you can travel to Canada.

sarahwoolley

Skill level A (NOC code 4011). The added complication we have is that he will be heading to BC a couple of weeks ahead of me due to work commitments. So would I still be able to apply at POE if I'm arriving alone?

Former Lancastrian

Yes but I suggest he sends you a copy of his work permit so you can prove he is in a skilled job and therefore eligible to be issued with a SOWP. Perhaps also if married a copy of the marriage certificate.

sarahwoolley

Ah ok, that makes sense. Am I right in thinking the WP gets issued at POE though? I wouldn't have to wait for it?

Former Lancastrian

Issued at the POE although depending on how busy the POE is there will be a wait if numerous people in front of you but it will be issued before you leave the POE unless all the systems were down and the CBSA officer doesn't know how to do a manual work permit.

sarahwoolley

Ok, that's great thanks FL! Is applying for the OWP at POE still possible if we've applied for the BC PNP through EE? I probably should have mentioned that before...

Former Lancastrian

If husband has applied for the TWP overseas/online he will get a letter from IRCC processing his application. He takes that letter to the POE and the work permit is issued based on the letter and fee payment made with the application.
He could have simply waited for the BC PNP Nomination letter to be issued and a letter/copy of contract from employer and then done everything at the POE and pay the fees at the POE.
If application already submitted then stick with that route.

sarahwoolley

Former Lancastrian

Each work permit is $155 Cad and if both open work permits a $100 processing fee for each one so the total payable is $510 regardless if done at the POE or not. No forms to fill out either but if applying at a POE MAKE SURE you have all relevant documents if not then could be in for a world of hurt and worst case scenario next flight back.

sarahwoolley

Former Lancastrian

Is the letter from BCNP for any employer or employer specific. Does job need a medical or certification to work in a specific job? Has he been offered a job? More info needed.

sarahwoolley

Former Lancastrian

Then all of that and the BCPNP support letter is all that is required to apply at the POE. Make sure passports are valid for duration of stay. Have a list of any goods that are being shipped at a later date. CBSA accepts cash and major credit cards and debit as payment. He also needs to apply for the eTA.

Snowy560

FL Aren't you forgetting the $230 ECF which the employer has to pay?