UPDATE AUGUST 1, 2020: IRCC has restored the language indicating the pilot program has been extended permanently.
UPDATE JULY 29, 2020 8:35 AM: IRCC has removed the language indicating the pilot program has been extended permanently. It has since replaced the website with an older version of the website with the July 31, 2020 expiration.
Original article:
IRCC has updated its operational bulletin regarding the inland spousal open work permit program to include the following:
As of December 22, 2014, open work permits may be issued under a pilot program to applicants who are in the spouse or common-law partner in Canada (SCLPC) class prior to first-stage approval. The pilot program has been extended until the regulatory changes have been completed to permanently implement this policy.
IRCC, emphasis mine
Previously, this pilot program was set to expire at the end of July, 2020 (though it was widely expected to be extended beyond that time frame).
To see the updated operational bulletin, click here.
Thanks to Sharmin R for sharing this news!