Open Work Permits

Flexibility at Work: Open Work Permits in Canada

An Open Work Permit in Canada is a permit that permits a foreign national to work for any employer in Canada, unlike standard work permits which require the worker to stick to a specific employer. Further, a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is not required to obtain an Open Work Permit. This permit provides flexibility to immigrants to explore various employment opportunities available in Canada.

Open Work Permits in Canada are beneficial for various individuals who wish to work in Canada without being restricted to a specific employer. Below are examples of different scenarios where individuals might secure Open Work Permits:

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

International students who have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada can apply for an Open Work Permit under the PGWP Program. This permit allows graduates to work for any employer in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience.

Spousal Open Work Permit

The spouses or the common-law partners of temporary foreign workers or international students can obtain an Open Work Permit to work in Canada. This permit allows spouses to work in any occupation, even while their partner is studying or working in Canada under a different type of permit.

Bridging Open Work Permit

This is an option for foreign nationals who have applied for permanent residence in Canada, and whose current temporary resident status is about to expire. This permit allows them to keep working while they wait for a final decision on their permanent residence application.

International Experience Canada (IEC)

Under the IEC program, young people from countries with a “Bilateral youth mobility agreement” with Canada have an opportunity to work in Canada. This program usually offers Open Work Permits, allowing participants to work for any employer in Canada.

Humanitarian Grounds

In certain exceptional cases, individuals in Canada who are out of status but are also applicants for humanitarian and compassionate considerations might be granted an Open Work Permit while their application is under review.

Refugee Claimants

Refugee Claimants in Canada might be eligible to apply for an Open Work Permit while awaiting the final determination of their claim.

Vulnerable Workers

Temporary Foreign Workers in an abusive job situation could be eligible for an Open Work Permit, which can offer them a chance to leave that employer and look for a different job in Canada.

Temporary Resident Permit Holders

People who are in Canada with a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) may be eligible for an Open Work Permit if their stay is found to be justified.

Eligibility

Typically, the following individuals may be eligible for an Open Work Permit:

1. International students who have graduated from a designated learning institution in Canada and are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
2. Spouses and common-law partners of skilled workers or international students.
3. Refugees, refugee claimants, and their family members.
4. Temporary Resident Permit holders.
5. Young workers participating in special programs under International Experience Canada.
6. Individuals whose permanent residency applications are being processed from within Canada.

Application Process

1. Check Eligibility: Ensuring that the applicants meet the eligibility criteria is essential for obtaining an open work permit.
2. Gather Necessary Documents: Documents such as passports, proof of employment, and other identity and background documents are required.
3. Application Submission: Applications can generally be submitted online through the Canadian immigration website, but in some cases, a paper application may be necessary.
4. Pay Fees: Applicants need to pay the applicable fees which may vary depending on individual circumstances.
5. Await Processing: Once submitted, applications undergo processing, which may involve additional documentation or clarification requests from immigration officers.
6. Receive Decision: After processing, applicants will receive a decision. If approved, they can proceed to work in Canada under the stipulations of the Open Work Permit.

Processing Time and Fees

The processing time and fees can vary, depending on the applicant’s country of residence, the accuracy and completeness of the application, and the processing times at the Canadian immigration offices. Click here to check the current processing time.

Renewal

Open work permits can be renewed before they expire if the applicant is eligible for a renewal. It is crucial to apply for renewal at least 30 days before the permit expires to maintain legal status in Canada.

Important Considerations

• Obtaining an Open Work Permit does not guarantee permanent residency, but it might assist individuals in gaining Canadian work experience, which can be beneficial for future immigration applications.
• Compliance with the terms and conditions of the permit is mandatory, and any breach may result in legal action or deportation.

The Open Work Permit in Canada is a valuable instrument for foreign nationals seeking to explore diverse employment opportunities in the country. It provides flexibility and allows individuals to experience the Canadian labor market while potentially paving the way for permanent residency. Applicants should diligently follow the application process, ensure all documentation is accurate, and stay informed about the latest immigration policies and regulations from reliable sources.

FAQs about Open Work Permits