Success: AIP & OWP
The Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) application is an option of last resort for foreigners in Canada who have strong reasons to stay in Canada and they have no other choice. This is a long and uncertain process. During extended processing times, we recommend that applicants, whenever possible maintain valid status while their applicatin is process to avoid potential removal (eg. deportation). The team at CIL tried to find creative paths for work authorization from IRCC so they may support their families.
This success story highlights how careful planning and timely applications allowed our client to secure and extend work authorization while awaiting the final outcome of her H&C application.
Background
Our client moved to Canada with her son in 2019. After residing in Canada for several years and establishing strong ties to Manitoba, our office was retained to assist this family. We submitted the H&C application in December 2022. As is common with H&C applications, processing times were lengthy, and the client remained in Canada while awaiting a decision.
Approval in Principle and Initial Work Permit
In July 2024, the client received a positive Approval in Principle (AIP) on her H&C application.
Approval in Principle means that IRCC has completed the assessment of the applicant’s eligibility and humanitarian factors and has determined that the application meets the requirements in principle. While permanent residence is not yet finalized at this stage, AIP allows the applicant to remain in Canada lawfully and, in many cases, apply for a work permit while background and admissibility checks continue.
Our office assisted with the work permit application, which was approved in September 2024, granting authorization to work in Canada until April 2026. This approval provided the client with stability, lawful status, and the ability to support herself and her child while remaining in Canada.
Work Permit (22 days)
The goal of the team at CIL is to make sure our clients have the best chance at success.
- January 13, 2026 – Work permit extension application submitted
- February 4, 2026 – Work permit approved, extending authorization until February 2028
The extension was approved without interruption to the client’s ability to work in Canada.
This outcome ensured the client’s continued ability to live and work in Canada while awaiting the final decision on her humanitarian application, providing stability for both her
and her child.
This case demonstrates that:
- Approval in Principle under an H&C application can open the door to work authorization
- Timely work permit and extension applications are critical during long processing periods
- Maintaining valid status requires careful monitoring of expiry dates and eligibility
- Strategic legal support can help avoid gaps in status and employment authorization
If you have an ongoing Humanitarian and Compassionate application and are unsure about work permit eligibility or extensions, professional guidance can be essential to protecting your ability to remain and work in Canada.
