Work Permit Application
Achieve Your Goals
Unlike a closed (or employer-specific) work permit, which strictly limits you to a particular employer, an open work permit allows you the freedom to work almost anywhere in Canada.
You do not need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and you do not need a job offer
Who Qualifies for an Open Work Permit?
Permanent Residency Applicant
If you have submitted your permanent residency application and are waiting for the results, you may apply for a Bridging Open Work Permit. Your spouse also qualifies for an Open Spousal Work Permit.
Spouse of Worker or Student
If your spouse is currently on a study permit or work permit, you may automatically qualify for an Open Spousal Work Permit. This open work permit would be connected to your spouse
International Students
If you recently graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution, you may be eligible for a Post Graduate Work Permit, which is also an open work permit.
- Refugees, Refugee Claimants, and their family members
- Vulnerable workers experiencing abuse form their employer
- Workers in an international agreement (ex. Working Holiday Visa)
The working holiday visa program allows young persons aged 18 – 35 years old to apply for a 1-year open work permit. This specific program applies only to certain countries who have made an international agreement with Canada.
How to Apply for an Open Work Permit
How to apply for an Open Work Permit depends on your situation
Permanent Residency and Work Permits
Work permits are generally processed much faster than permanent residency applications. For example, if you are sponsoring your spouse from inside Canada, your spouse can also apply for an open work permit at the same time.
The work permit decision is made halfway through the overall processing time, allowing the applicant your sponsored spouse to begin working sooner, rather than waiting for the permanent residency decision.
Keep in mind that other requirements must also be met. In this case, if a spousal sponsorship application includes an open work permit application, your spouse must also be residing with you at the same address.
Post-Graduate Work Permits
Post-graduate work permits are only given to those who you apply within 180 days of receiving your final grades.
The validity of your post-graduate work permit and depends on the length of your study program. The maximum length is 3 years.
Work Permit Extensions
Once you have applied for an extension, you have implied status, and can continue working until a decision is made.
NOTE: Some open work permits cannot be renewed, such as a Post-Graduate Work Permit. The validity of your passport may also limit the length of your work permit.
Have a Question?
How We Can Help
We guide you through each step of the process, ensuring that you compile a strong and convicting application. For many of our
clients, the ability to work and generate an income cannot be over
stated. We ensure you understand and take advantage of the
opportunity to work in Canada.
To get started or find out more about open work permits, contact us at 416-477-2570 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I immigrate to Canada in 2020?
Some of the most asked about applications include the express entry, family class sponsorship, live-in caregiver, provincial nominee programs, investor category immigration.
What are the requirements to immigrate to Canada?
Some of the most asked about applications include the express entry, family class sponsorship, live-in caregiver, provincial nominee programs, investor category immigration.
What is the fastest way to immigrate to Canada?
Some of the most asked about applications include the express entry, family class sponsorship, live-in caregiver, provincial nominee programs, investor category immigration.