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Open Work Permit for Destitute Students

Open Work Permit for Destitute Students

The Open Work Permit for Destitute Students is designed for international students in Canada who are facing financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances. This permit allows them to work off-campus without the usual restrictions to support themselves financially. Students must continue to meet the conditions of their study permit while holding and working with the open work permit, namely to remain enrolled in a designated learning institution and actively pursue their studies.

Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be an international student with a valid study permit.
  • Must be experiencing financial hardship due to unforeseen circumstances.
  • Must be and remain enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI) and actively pursue your studies at the time of application and until a decision is made on the application.

How to Apply

Important Considerations

Financial Relief

This permit provides the means to support yourself financially while continuing your studies.

Employment Flexibility

Allows you to work off-campus without the usual restrictions.

Study Permit Conditions

You must remain enrolled in a DLI and actively pursue your studies.

Situations Qualifying for Destitution

Financial hardship can be proven in cases such as war, pandemic, economic collapse of a country, or death of a sponsor. However, extreme discretion is used by processing officers when approving an OWP for a destitute student, as one of the requirements while applying for a study permit is to have enough funds to support education and living expenses.

Therefore, applicants must explain their situation in detail to make a strong case for the permit.

FAQs for Destitute Students OWP

What qualifies as unforeseen circumstances?

Unforeseen circumstances can include events such as war, pandemic, the economic collapse of a country, loss of financial support, death of a sponsor, or unexpected large expenses that you could not have planned for.

Do I need to provide proof of my financial situation?

Yes, you must provide documentation that demonstrates your financial hardship, such as bank statements, letters from financial supporters, or any other relevant documents.

Can I work full-time with this permit?

Yes, the open work permit allows you to work off-campus without the usual restrictions, which means you can work full-time if necessary.

How long is the open work permit for destitute students valid?

It is typically valid for the duration of the financial hardship or until you complete your studies.

Can I apply if I am not currently enrolled in a DLI?

No, you must be and remain enrolled in a designated learning institution (DLI) and actively pursue your studies at the time of application and until a decision is made on the application.

Can I extend this permit if my financial situation does not improve?

Yes, you can apply to extend the permit if you continue to face financial hardship, provided you still meet the eligibility requirements.

What if I regain financial stability before the permit expires?

You are still allowed to work until the permit expires, but it is advisable to inform IRCC if your financial situation significantly improves.

Will this permit affect my study permit status?

No, holding an open work permit for destitute students does not affect your study permit status as long as you continue to meet the conditions of your study permit.

Learn More About Open Work Permits for Destitute Students

Work permits, especially for situations like destitution, can be complex. If you need assistance, our experienced team at SAAB Immigration Services Inc. is here to help. We offer a free detailed consultation to discuss your situation for destitution. Book an appointment with us today for expert guidance.

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