Canada’s Open Work Permit: Eligibilty, advantages and how you can apply

An open work permit provides the freedom to work for any employer in Canada, making it a sought-after option for many foreign nationals. Unlike a closed work permit, which restricts workers to a single employer, an open work permit allows greater flexibility and opportunities in the Canadian job market.

Types of Work Permits in Canada

Canada issues two main types of work permits: closed and open. A closed work permit binds the worker to one specific employer. In contrast, an open work permit allows the holder to work for any employer across Canada, offering greater freedom and adaptability.

Advantages of an Open Work Permit

The primary benefit of an open work permit is the flexibility it provides. Workers are not tied to one employer, enabling them to explore various job opportunities. Applicants for an open work permit are also exempt from certain requirements. For instance, there is no need for a job offer to apply for an open work permit, and it qualifies under the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Several categories of individuals are eligible to apply for an open work permit in Canada, including:

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1. International Graduates: Students who have recently graduated from a recognized Canadian institution and qualify for the post-graduation work permit program.
2. Permanent Residency Applicants: Individuals who have applied for permanent residency.
3. Family Members: Those with close family relations who have applied for permanent residency.
4. Spouses or Common-Law Partners: Partners of international students.
5. Temporary Residents: Holders of a temporary resident card in Canada.
6. Working Holiday Participants: Individuals in Canada on a working holiday visa.
7. Students Facing Financial Hardships: Students who cannot afford their studies in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for Open Work Permits

Eligibility and application procedures vary based on individual circumstances. Common reasons for eligibility include:

Common Eligibility Scenarios for an Open Work Permit

1. 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.
     • You have an expiring work permit.
     • You have applied for permanent residence through a federal or provincial economic class program.
   • Note: BOWP is not available in Quebec, but alternative work permits are available.
2. Spouses or Common-Law Partners Being 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.
     • Meet the eligibility criteria under the sponsorship immigration program.
3. Spouses or Common-Law Partners of Temporary Foreign Workers
   • Eligibility conditions include:
     • 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.
     • The worker resides or intends to reside in Canada.
4. Spouses or Common-Law Partners of International Students
   • To be eligible:
     • The spouse/common-law partner cannot be a full-time student.
     • For applications after March 19th, 2024, additional conditions apply:
       • The student must be in a master’s or doctoral program or specific professional degree programs (e.g., DDS, MD, PharmD).
       • Required documents: valid letter of acceptance, proof of enrolment, or transcripts.
       • Proof of relationship to IRCC must be provided.
     • For applications before March 19th, 2024:
       • The student must have a valid study permit and be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP).
       • The student must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
5. International Graduates and Their Spouses/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.
     • They must have studied full-time in a program of at least 8 months at a DLI.
   • Spouses/common-law partners of PGWP holders may also qualify, with the permit’s validity tied to the spouse’s work authorization period.
6. 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 Work Permit

Applications for an open work permit can be submitted from inside or outside Canada. The required forms and documentation, as well as the application process, depend on the applicant’s location. The procedure includes filling out the specified form and paying both the open work permit holder fee and the work permit processing fee.