Open Work Permit
An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with some exceptions. Specifically, you cannot work for employers listed as ineligible for failing to comply with regulations or those offering services like striptease, erotic dance, escort services, or erotic massages. Unlike job-specific permits, open work permits don’t require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or proof of a job offer from an employer. However, in most cases, you will need to pay the open work permit holder fee alongside the work permit fee. It’s important to check the latest fee list for up-to-date information. Open work permits are available only under certain conditions. An open work permit provides greater flexibility, allowing individuals to gain work experience in various fields and adapt to the Canadian job market. This can be particularly beneficial for international students, spouses of skilled workers, and those applying for permanent residency, as it facilitates easier transitions into the workforce.
Requirements for Open Work Permit
Graduated from a designated learning institution and eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
Students unable to meet the costs of their studies may qualify for an open work permit.
Dependent family members of individuals applying for permanent residence can apply for an open work permit.
Spouses, common-law partners, or dependent children of low- or high-skilled workers are eligible.
Spouses or common-law partners of international students may apply for an open work permit.
Spouses or common-law partners of applicants for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program or the Atlantic Immigration Program qualify.
Refugees, refugee claimants, or protected persons and their family members are eligible.
Those who are under an unenforceable removal order can apply for an open work permit.
Individuals holding a temporary resident permit may qualify.
Quebec investors who have received a Quebec Notice of Intent to Select are eligible for an open work permit.
Conditions on Work Permit
- Some conditions may be directly written on your work permit, including the type of work you can do, the employer you can work for, where you can work, and how long you can work.
- Regulation 185 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations outlines all potential conditions that may be imposed on your work permit.
- Standard conditions apply to all work permit holders, regardless of specific conditions listed on their permits.
- You must not work for employers in businesses where there are reasonable grounds to suspect a risk of sexual exploitation, such as strip clubs, massage parlours, and escort agencies.
- You are required to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.
