An open work permit in Canada allows foreign nationals to work for any employer. Unlike a closed work permit, which binds workers to one employer, an open work permit offers flexibility in the job market. This guide will cover the types of Canada work permits, the advantages of an open work permit, eligibility criteria, and how to apply.

Types of Canada Work Permits

Closed Work Permit

A closed work permit restricts the worker to a single employer. It limits job opportunities and flexibility. Workers must stick to the employer specified in their permit.

Open Work Permit

An open work permit provides the freedom to work for any employer in Canada. This type of permit offers greater adaptability and opportunities.

Advantages of an Open Canada Work Permit

The primary advantage of an open work permit is flexibility. Workers can explore various job opportunities without being tied to one employer. Open work permit applicants do not need a job offer. They are also exempt from the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Eligibility for an Open Work Permit

Eligibility depends on individual circumstances. Here are some common scenarios:

International Graduates

Graduates from recognized Canadian institutions may qualify for the post-graduation work permit program.

Permanent Residency Applicants

Individuals who have applied for permanent residency in Canada are eligible.

Family Members

Close family members of those who have applied for permanent residency can apply.

Spouses or Common-Law Partners

Partners of international students or temporary foreign workers can obtain an open work permit.

Temporary Residents

Holders of a temporary resident card in Canada may qualify.

Working Holiday Participants

Individuals in Canada on a working holiday visa can apply for an open work permit.

Students Facing Financial Hardships

Students who cannot afford their studies in Canada may be eligible.

Common Eligibility Scenarios for an Open Work Permit

Permanent Residence Applicants Residing in Canada

You and your spouse or common-law partner may qualify for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) if you reside in Canada, have an expiring work permit, and have applied for permanent residence through a federal or provincial economic class program. Note that BOWP is not available in Quebec, but alternative work permits are available.

Spouses or Common-Law Partners Sponsored Under Inland Sponsorship

Spouses and common-law partners of Canadians or permanent residents can get an open work permit if they are being sponsored for permanent residence through Inland Sponsorship and meet the eligibility criteria under the sponsorship immigration program.

Common-Law Partners of Temporary Foreign Workers

Eligibility conditions include that the temporary foreign worker has employment in Canada in a job corresponding to NOC Skill Level 0, A, or B, the job duration is at least six months, and the worker resides or intends to reside in Canada.

Spouses or Common-Law Partners of International Students

The spouse or common-law partner cannot be a full-time student. For applications after March 19th, 2024, the student must be in a master’s or doctoral program or specific professional degree programs (e.g., DDS, MD, PharmD). Required documents include a valid letter of acceptance, proof of enrollment, or transcripts, and proof of relationship to IRCC. For applications before March 19th, 2024, the student must have a valid study permit, be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), and be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).

International Graduates and Their Spouses or Common-Law Partners

To be eligible for an open work permit under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP), the foreign national must be at least 18 years old and have studied full-time in a program of at least eight months at a DLI. Spouses or common-law partners of PGWP holders may also qualify, with the permit’s validity tied to the spouse’s work authorization period.

International Experience Canada (IEC) Participants

Participants in the IEC program can obtain an open work permit under the Working Holiday category if they are young adults from countries with reciprocal agreements with Canada. The eligible age range is usually between 18 and 35 years old.

Application Process for an Open Canada Work Permit

You can submit applications from inside or outside Canada. The required forms and documentation, as well as the application process, depend on your location. The procedure includes filling out the specified form and paying both the open work permit holder fee and the work permit processing fee.