Open Work Permits in Canada

An open work permit is a legal document that authorizes a foreign worker to work in Canada. What makes this type of work permit unique is the term “open” which indicates that it is not restricted to a particular employer or industry. This means that the holder of an open work permit (foreign nationals) can work in any location within Canada, regardless of the industry, occupation, or employer.

Moreover, one of the benefits of having an open work permit is that you do not need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an employment letter to apply. This is because an open work permit does not require any specific job offer or employer sponsorship.

Open work permits offer great flexibility to foreign workers looking to work in Canada. It allows them to explore various job opportunities and gain experience in different industries. Additionally, it provides a pathway for foreign nationals interested in immigrating to Canada, as having Canadian work experience can improve their chances of qualifying for permanent residency. Overall, an open work permit is a valuable tool for foreign nationals who wish to work and live in Canada.

Who Can apply for an Open Work Permit?

There are several categories in which applicants may apply for an open work permit. The following are but a few examples of such categories (Note this is not an exhaustive list):

1. Foreign workers awaiting a response to their applications, under other certain categories, to immigrate to Canada;
2. Post Graduate Work Permits for International Students who have graduated from an Institute falling within the list of Designated Learning Institutions;
3. Refugee or Protected Persons and their family members while awaiting their applications to be decided;
4. Foreign nationals who have applied for permanent residency within Canada; and
5. The spouse or common-law partners of international students and work permit holders.

Note: in a recent announcement, The Government of Canada, as a matter of Public Policy, has changed the eligibility for spouses and children of many work permit holders.

Kindly contact the Edmonton Law Office and one of our experienced Immigration Lawyers to discuss your options for obtaining an open work permit in Canada.

How to apply for an open work permit in Canada

To apply for an open work permit in Canada, applicants must first create a MyCIC account and log in to complete an online application. They must also pay the permit holder fee and any applicable biometrics fees. The online application requires an identity document, contact information, the reason for applying, and the applicant’s job title and employer. Additionally, applicants must provide supporting documents, such as a valid passport, a study permit, or a temporary resident permit. After completing the application and submitting all the necessary documents, the applicant must attend an in-person biometrics appointment. Once all of these steps are completed, the applicant will receive a confirmation of receipt. The processing time varies based on the type of application and the applicant’s personal situation. The full details of the application process, including the permit holder fee, can be found on the Canada.ca website.

Open Work Permit vs. Closed Work Permit

In Canada, a Closed Work Permit, also known as an Employer-Specific Work Permit, is a type of work permit that allows individuals to work for a specific employer, at a specific location, and for a specific duration. Unlike an Open Work Permit, which provides the flexibility to work for any employer in Canada (with some exceptions), a Closed Work Permit ties the worker to the conditions outlined in the permit. This means that if the worker wants to change employers, they must apply for a new work permit. Closed Work Permits are often used in situations where a foreign worker has been hired to fill a specific job position that cannot be filled by a Canadian resident.

Professional assistance every step of the way

If you are a foreign worker seeking to work in Canada, Edmonton Law Office and its experienced Canadian Immigration Lawyers can be a valuable resource. Our team can assist you in determining your eligibility for a Canadian work permit, guide you through the documentation gathering and preparation process, and help you navigate the various stages of the immigration process.

With the support of our knowledgeable and skilled immigration lawyers, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome and obtain the necessary authorization to work in Canada. We are committed to providing professional and effective representation to foreign workers tailored to your unique circumstances and goals.

Whether you are interested in temporary or permanent work in Canada, Edmonton Law Office is here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can assist you in achieving your career objectives in Canada.