Simple Steps to Apply for an Open Work Permit in Canada

Colin R. Singer
July 3, 2024

An Open Work Permit allows a foreign national to work for any Canadian employer over a specified period of time. Some open work permits may restrict the kind of job or place in which the foreign national may work in Canada.

A worker may apply for an Open Work Permit in Canada, outside Canada, or at a Canadian port of entry. Open work permits are only issued to those who are also exempt from the LMIA requirement.

What Is An Open Work Permit In Canada?

An Open Work Permit in Canada allows foreign nationals to work in Canada for any employer and in most occupations without needing a specific job offer at the time of application. Unlike employer-specific work permits, which tie the worker to a single employer and position, open work permits offer greater flexibility and mobility within the Canadian job market.

Open work permits are particularly advantageous for those who seek employment opportunities in various regions or sectors without the need to amend their permits for every job change.

There are two primary types of open work permits in Canada: unrestricted and occupation-restricted. See below for the detail requirements of each type.

Open work permits play a vital role in supporting Canada’s labour market by attracting skilled and versatile workers on Canada work visas.

Required Documents For A Temporary Work Permit

Who Can Apply for an Open Work Permit?

Foreign nationals with no other means of support
Permanent residency applicants in Canada)
Foreign nationals living in Canada for humanitarian reasons
Participants in certain international student and young worker exchange programs
The family members of military personnel and foreign representatives
Professional athletes
Spouses of skilled worker residents
Spouses of foreign students
Foreign nationals currently in Canada whose work permit will soon expire and who have submitted an application for permanent residence under:
- The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
- The Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
Foreign nationals who have submitted an application for permanent residence under the Spouse or Common Law Partner stream. Applicants will be able to get an open work permit if:
- The spouse or common law partner must have submitted a permanent residency application
- The applicant’s spouse/partner is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- The applicant’s spouse/partner has submitted a sponsorship application on the applicant’s behalf
- They live at the same address as the sponsor/spouse/partner
- They have valid temporary resident status as a visitor, student or worker

General Eligibility Requirements For An Open Work Permit In Canada

To be eligible for an Open Work Permit in Canada, applicants must legally reside in Canada or their home country. Requirements include completing necessary forms, providing proof of identity, and possibly undergoing a medical exam. Applicants must have no criminal record, demonstrate financial sufficiency, comply with current status conditions, and intend to leave Canada when the permit expires unless seeking a work permit extension.

How to Apply For a Temporary Work Permit

Unrestricted Open Work Permit In Canada

Under an unrestricted open work permit in Canada, a foreign national can work in Canada in any job, in any place and for any employer. An unrestricted open work permit will be given to eligible workers who have passed the medical exam. Valid work permits can also be given to eligible workers mentioned who:

Have failed the medical exam AND
Either have no other means of support (Applicant with No Other Means of Support) or belong to certain groups of permanent resident applicants living in Canada. (Permanent Residence Applicants in Canada)

Occupation-Restricted Open Permit In Canada

Under an occupation-restricted open permit in Canada, an eligible person may work for any employer but the job in which the person must work will be specified. Occupation restricted open permits are given to eligible workers who have not completed a medical exam. Holders of occupation-restricted open permits are usually not allowed to work in jobs related to health care.

If an eligible worker receives an occupation-restricted open permit and is from a country that does not require a medical exam when entering Canada, he/she will not be allowed to work in:

Childcare
Primary or secondary school teaching
Health services

If an eligible worker acquires an occupation-restricted open permit in Canada and is from a country that does require a medical exam, he/she will not be allowed to work in:

Childcare
Primary or secondary school teaching
Health services
Farming

To apply for an Open Work Permit in Canada, follow these steps:

Determine Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria, ensuring all requirements are met, including legal residency and program-specific conditions.
Gather Required Documents: Collect necessary documents such as proof of identity, legal status, and any additional program-specific paperwork. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
Submit the Application: Apply online or via paper, following detailed instructions. Pay the required work permit fee using accepted payment methods.
After Submission: Await processing, noting that times may vary. Applicants may receive interim status, allowing them to remain in Canada while the application is processed.

Open Work Permit In Canada FAQ

How Do I Get An Open Work Permit In Canada?

To obtain an open work permit in Canada, first determine your eligibility, which may include being a recent graduate, a spouse of a skilled worker, or participating in certain youth programs. Gather necessary documents like a valid passport, recent photographs, proof of status in Canada (if applicable), and supporting documents such as a graduation or marriage certificate. Apply online through the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website by creating an account, completing the required forms, and paying the application fee. Processing times vary, so apply well in advance. If approved, you’ll receive a letter of introduction (if outside Canada) or a new permit (if within the country). Present this letter to a border services officer upon arrival in Canada to receive your open work permit.

How Much Is The Fee For An Open Work Permit In Canada?

The latest fee for an open work permit in Canada is $255. This includes $155 for the valid work permit application and an additional $100 for the open work permit holder fee. Check the IRCC website for the most current information before applying for a work permit or work permit extension.

How Much Funds Are Required For A Canada Spouse Open Work Permit?

Although there is no specific amount set solely for the spouse open work permit in Canada, immigration authorities generally expect the principal applicant (the student or skilled worker) to demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and their spouse during their stay in Canada.

What are the Eligibility Requirements for Open Work Permits?

Eligibility requirements for an open work permit in Canada vary depending on the category. For the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you must have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and completed a program of at least eight months leading to a degree, diploma, or certificate. Students must have a valid study permit when applying. Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers must show that their partner is working in a skilled occupation in Canada.

Common Scenarios and Tips

Applying for an open work permit from outside Canada

This involves creating an account on the IRCC website, completing the required forms, and submitting the necessary documents, including proof of eligibility and a valid passport. It’s important to apply well in advance due to variable processing times.

Applying from within Canada

If you are already in Canada with a valid status, you can apply online or by mail. Ensure you have all supporting documents such as proof of current status and any specific program requirements.

Applying at a Canadian port of entry

This option is available for certain eligible applicants, such as those from visa-exempt countries. You must present all required documents and proof of eligibility to a border services officer upon arrival.

Tips for a successful application

Double-check eligibility criteria, ensure all forms and documents are complete and accurate, and pay the required fees. Apply well in advance of your intended start date, and keep track of processing times. Providing comprehensive supporting documentation can help avoid delays.

Conclusion

In summary, an open work permit in Canada allows foreign nationals to work for any employer and provides job offer flexibility. Applications can be made from outside Canada, within Canada, or at a Canadian port of entry. To ensure success, carefully review eligibility requirements, gather all necessary documents, and apply early. For additional assistance on a work permit or work permit extension application, consider seeking professional advice.