Now the chances of working for your preferred employer in Canada are higher than ever. Unlike a closed work permit that limits you to one job, an open work permit offers flexibility and freedom, making it a top choice for many foreign nationals. If you’re eagerly looking for expert advice on how to move forward with this process, consult with the best immigration consultant for Canada for the best possible outcomes.
What are the types of work permits in Canada?
In Canada, you can get two work permits: closed and open. A closed work permit ties you to one employer. Whereas, an open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, offering you more freedom and flexibility. For the right guidance on securing the appropriate work permit, including the Canada work visa, connect with knowledgeable and trustworthy immigration experts at Donivia Overseas.
Benefits of an open work permit in Canada
An open work permit comes with significant advantages, mainly its flexibility. You’re not restricted to a single employer, allowing you to explore diverse job opportunities. Additionally, applying for an open work permit is simpler since you don’t need a job offer, and it bypasses the usual Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirements. This makes the process more straightforward and accessible.
Many individuals can apply for an open work permit in Canada. The following are the major groups or categories:
- New graduates: If you’ve recently graduated from a recognized Canadian educational institution, you can qualify through the post-graduation work permit program. This enables you to get valuable Canadian work experience. For more help with the application, don’t hesitate to seek advice from the best consultant for Canada.
- Aspiring permanent residents: If you’re applying for permanent residency, you’re eligible for an open work permit, offering you the flexibility to work while your application is being processed.
- Close family members: Close family members of those who have applied for permanent residency can also apply. Doing so allows families to stay together and support each other during the immigration process.
- Partners of students: If you’re the partner of an international student, you can work in Canada, enhancing your ability to contribute financially and integrate into Canadian society. For better assistance with the Canada Work Visa, reach out to us at Donivia Overseas.
- Temporary cardholders: If you hold a temporary resident card in Canada, you can work for any employer, providing more stability during your stay.
- Holiday workers: Those in Canada on a working holiday visa can take advantage of an open work permit to explore different job opportunities across the country.
- Students in need: If you’re a student struggling to afford your studies in Canada, an open work permit can help you find work and alleviate financial pressures.
Eligibility criteria to get open work permit in Canada
An open work permit in Canada can be a great opportunity for various individuals. Check out the mentioned eligibility criteria to gain complete clarity:
- Permanent residents in Canada: If your work permit is about to expire while you’re in Canada, you and your spouse or common-law partner could be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). To qualify, you need to have applied for permanent residency through a federal or provincial immigration program. Keep in mind that the BOWP is not available in Quebec, but other work permit options are available for residents of that province. This permit will let you keep working as you wait for your permanent residency application to be processed, helping you maintain employment and stability during this period of transition.
- Spouses or common-law partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents: If you’re married to or in a common-law relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can apply for an open work permit. This is possible if you’re currently being sponsored for permanent residency through Inland Sponsorship and satisfy the program’s eligibility criteria. An open work permit allows you to work anywhere in Canada while you wait for your permanent residency application to be processed, helping you integrate into Canadian life and support yourself financially.
- Spouses or common-law partners of temporary foreign workers: You could be eligible for an open work permit if your partner has a position in Canada classified under NOC Skill Level 0, A, or B, and their job is for a minimum of six months. Additionally, you and your partner must either be living together in Canada or planning to do so. This permit allows you to work freely, helping you support yourself and adjust to life in Canada.
- Spouses or common-law partners of international students: To qualify for an open work permit as the spouse or common-law partner of an international student, you must not be a full-time student yourself. If you’re applying after March 19, 2024, the student must be enrolled in a master’s, doctoral, or specific professional program such as DDS, MD, or PharmD. You’ll need to submit documents like a letter of acceptance, proof of enrollment, or transcripts, along with proof of your relationship to the student. For applications made before this date, the student should have a valid study permit, be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), and be a full-time student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- International graduates and their partners: If you’ve recently graduated from a Canadian educational institution, you could qualify for an open work permit through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP). To be eligible, you need to be at least 18 years old and have completed a full-time program of at least 8 months at a designated learning institution (DLI). Additionally, your spouse or common-law partner can also obtain a work permit that matches the duration of your PGWP, allowing both of you to work in Canada and gain practical experience together.
- International experience Canada (IEC) participants: If you’re currently in Canada on an IEC Working Holiday visa, you may be eligible for an open work permit. To qualify, you need to be from a country that has a reciprocal agreement with Canada and generally be between the ages of 18 and 35. This permit gives you the flexibility to work anywhere across Canada, offering a fantastic chance to explore the country while earning money and gaining work experience.
How to apply for an open work permit in Canada?
You can apply for an open work permit whether you’re in Canada or another country. The steps and paperwork differ on the basis of your location, however the process is straightforward. You are required to fill up the necessary forms and pay two fees: one for the open work permit and another for processing. This flexibility makes it easier to plan your move and start working in Canada.