Who Is Eligible?
Open work permits are available in specific situations
Spouse or Common-Law Partner
If your partner is a skilled worker, international student in certain programs, or PR applicant.
Key Requirements:
- •Partner has valid study or work permit
- •Partner is in eligible program/occupation
- •Proof of relationship
- •Meet admissibility requirements
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
International graduates from eligible Canadian institutions can work for any employer.
Key Requirements:
- •Graduated from designated learning institution
- •Completed program of 8+ months
- •Apply within 180 days of program completion
- •Valid study permit at time of application
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
Maintain work authorization while awaiting permanent residence decision.
Key Requirements:
- •Applied for permanent residence
- •Received acknowledgement of receipt
- •Current work permit expiring in 4 months or less
- •Currently in Canada with valid status
Vulnerable Workers
Workers experiencing abuse or at risk of abuse in the workplace.
Key Requirements:
- •Currently in Canada with valid work permit
- •Experiencing or at risk of abuse
- •Police report or third-party evidence
- •Meet admissibility requirements
Humanitarian & Compassionate
Open work permits on humanitarian and compassionate grounds.
Key Requirements:
- •Applied for permanent residence on H&C grounds
- •Cannot support yourself without working
- •Would face undue hardship
- •Case under active consideration
International Experience Canada
Young professionals from participating countries on working holiday visas.
Key Requirements:
- •Age 18-35 (varies by country)
- •Citizen of participating country
- •Invitation to apply from IEC
- •Meet program requirements
Benefits of Open Work Permits
Employer Flexibility
Work for any Canadian employer without needing a new work permit each time you change jobs.
No LMIA Required
Open work permits don't require employers to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Career Exploration
Test different industries and roles to find the best fit for your skills and interests.
Work Experience
Gain valuable Canadian work experience that counts toward Express Entry and provincial programs.
Geographic Mobility
Work anywhere in Canada without provincial restrictions (in most cases).
Multiple Employers
Work for more than one employer simultaneously, including contract and part-time positions.
Application Process
Confirm Eligibility
Verify you meet the requirements for one of the open work permit categories.
Gather Documents
Collect required documents including proof of status, relationship evidence, or graduation documents.
Complete Application
Fill out work permit application forms and pay government processing fees.
Submit Application
Apply online or by paper, depending on your situation and location.
Wait for Processing
Processing times vary by type and location. Continue maintaining valid status.
Receive Decision
If approved, receive your open work permit and start working for any employer.
Important Restrictions
Certain Employers Prohibited
Cannot work for employers who regularly offer striptease, erotic dance, escort services, or erotic massages.
Must Maintain Status
You must have valid temporary resident status in Canada when applying for most open work permits.
Specific to Category
Each open work permit category has unique requirements and conditions that must be met.
Not All Open Permits Equal
Some open work permits have geographic or employer type restrictions depending on the category.