Who Can Apply for Permanent Residence Under the Extended Public Policy for Out-of-Status Construction Workers in the Greater Toronto Area?

The public policy offering a pathway to permanent residence for out-of-status construction workers in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has been extended until December 31, 2024, or until 1,000 applications are approved, whichever comes first. As the number of available spots is quickly filling up, it’s important to apply as soon as possible if you meet the eligibility criteria. Here’s a comprehensive guide on who can apply under this program:

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for permanent residence under this policy, you must:

1. Current Status: Have entered Canada as a temporary resident but currently have no legal status.
2. Residency: Be living in Canada and have resided continuously in the country for at least 5 years.
3. Work Experience: Possess the appropriate work experience in the construction industry in the GTA.
4. Family in Canada: Have family members residing in Canada.
5. Referral: Be referred by the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC).
6. Admissibility: Be otherwise admissible to Canada.

Ineligibility Criteria

You and your family members cannot apply if:

• You or your family members have pending refugee claims.
• You or your family members are failed asylum claimants.

Detailed Requirements

1. Entry to Canada

• You must have initially entered Canada legally as a temporary resident.

1. Living in Canada

• You need to be currently residing in Canada and must have been continuously living here for at least 5 years.
• Proof of continuous residence can include:
  • Lease or rental agreements.
  • Letters from landlords or property owners (indicating the dates of residence).
  • Utility bills or bank statements with your name and address.

1. Work Experience

• Current and Past Experience: Must be in the construction industry within the GTA and align with the National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes.
• NOC 2021 Codes: Eligible occupations include:
  • Major Group 72 (technical trades and transportation officers).
  • Major Group 73 (general trades).
  • Major Group 75 (helpers, labourers, and other transport drivers).
• NOC 2016 Codes: For applications submitted before November 16, 2022, relevant codes include:
  • Major Group 72 (industrial, electrical, and construction trades).
  • Major Group 73 (maintenance and equipment operation trades).
  • Specific NOCs like 7441 (installers and servicers), 7521 (heavy equipment operators), and 7611 (construction trades helpers).

1. Work Experience Duration

• You must have accumulated a minimum of 4,680 hours of work experience in the past 5 years.
• Acceptable sources of proof include:
  • Previous work permits.
  • T4 tax slips and notice of assessments.
  • Reference letters from employers or coworkers.
  • Employment contracts and pay stubs.

1. Family in Canada

• You must have family living in Canada, which could be:
  • Extended family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
  • A spouse, common-law partner, or child residing in Canada.
• Proof of relationship can be provided through:
  • Birth or marriage certificates.
  • Family booklets.

1. Referral from the CLC

• The Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) is responsible for verifying eligibility. You must be referred by the CLC to apply.
• Once referred, the CLC will send a referral letter to immigration authorities. Ensure you keep a copy of this letter for your records.

1. Admissibility

• You and your dependents must not be inadmissible to Canada for reasons other than overstaying temporary status or working without a valid permit.
• Admissibility will be determined by an immigration officer; the CLC is not responsible for this assessment.

This extended public policy represents a crucial opportunity for out-of-status construction workers in the GTA to secure permanent residency. If you meet the criteria, don’t delay in applying to ensure you benefit from this important program.