Open Work Permit Canada in 2025: Eligibility, Categories, Process, Requirements, and More
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Table of Contents
- What is an Open Work Permit?
- What are the Types of Open Permits in Canada in 2025?
- Permit Holder Categories in 2025
- Eligibility Criteria for Temporary Workers in 2025
- Eligibility for In-Canada Applications
- How To Apply For an Open Permit in Canada in 2025: Step-by-Step Process
- Immigrate to Canada with GetGIS!
To obtain an open work permit visa in 2025, you must meet certain requirements, such as being eligible under a temporary resident to permanent resident pathway, having a valid passport, and demonstrating sufficient funds to support yourself.
In this blog, we have jotted down informative insights to clarify the process of obtaining an Open Work Permit in Canada, helping you navigate the requirements with confidence. It aims to address any uncertainty or questions you may have, offering valuable guidance to provide clarity and assistance.
What is an Open Work Permit?
The Open Work Permit also referred to as the International Mobility Program for Canada, differs from other work permits by not being tied to a specific job. While most work permits bind the holder to a single employer, the Open Work Permit permits changing employers within its validity period.
For Temporary Foreign Workers, this permit enables work in Canada for six months or less, with the flexibility to switch employers, provided the new employer meets Canadian Government approval and is not engaged in activities disallowed by the Government.
What are the Types of Open Permits in Canada in 2025?
There are various scenarios under which an Open Work Permit can be granted, with possible unrestricted or restricted conditions determined by the Canadian Consulate. Typically, there are three types of Open Work Permits:
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Unrestricted permits permit changes in employers, occupations, and work locations
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Restricted permits allow changes in employers but not in work occupations
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Another type of restricted permit enables changes in employers but not in work locations.
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Location-restricted open Work Permits allow location changes but specify the geographical area of work.
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Post-graduation work Permits (PGWP) are for international students who graduate from a designated learning institution in Canada, allowing them to work in Canada for a period based on their study program length.
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Spouse Open Work Permit (SOWP) available to spouses or common-law partners of international students or workers
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International Experience Canada (IEC) allows foreign nationals from certain countries to come to Canada for a working holiday or to gain international work experience
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Bridging Open Work Permits (BOWP) allows foreign nationals to continue working in Canada.
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Family Member Open Work Permits are for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children of foreign workers.
Also Read: Top 15 Canada Immigration Questions Asked at Airport for Students
Permit Holder Categories in 2025
Canada has implemented multiple changes to open work permits for family members of foreign workers, impacting spouses and dependents. Here are open work permits under specific categories
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Spouses of Foreign Workers |
Eligible if the primary worker is employed in TEER 0 or 1 occupation or select TEER 2 or 3 occupations in sectors such as natural and applied sciences, construction, healthcare, natural resources, education, sports, and the military. |
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Spouses of International Students |
Eligible if the student is enrolled in a Master's, PhD, or professional degree program. |
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Dependents |
Dependents, including children, are no longer eligible for open work permits. |
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TEER Categories |
Primary workers must be employed in TEER 0 and 1 occupations or select TEER 2 and 3 occupations in specific sectors. |
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Study Permit Caps |
A 10% reduction in study permit allocations for 2025, with a total cap of 437,000 permits (down from 485,000 in 2024). |
Eligibility Criteria for Temporary Workers in 2025
As a temporary worker, it's crucial to ensure eligibility based on the criteria outlined below, which may include having a valid job offer, meeting language requirements, possessing specific skills or qualifications, and obtaining a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) if necessary.
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Category |
Eligibility Criteria |
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Spouses of Foreign Workers |
Eligible if the primary worker is employed in TEER 0 or TEER 1 occupations or select TEER 2 or 3 roles in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, construction, and technology. The primary worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit. |
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Spouses of International Students |
Eligible if the student is enrolled in Master’s, PhD, or professional degree programs lasting at least 16 months. Spouses of undergraduate students are no longer eligible. |
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Dependent Children |
Dependent children are excluded from eligibility for OWPs under family categories. |
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Temporary Foreign Worker Program |
Requires employer sponsorship with a positive LMIA. Includes streams for high-wage, low-wage, and agricultural workers. |
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Provincial Nominee Support |
Foreign workers supported by provincial nomination programs (e.g., Alberta, Manitoba, Yukon) can apply for OWPs. |
Eligibility for In-Canada Applications
To apply for an open work permit from within Canada, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include:
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Category |
Eligibility Criteria |
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Work Permit Applications |
- Have a valid study or work permit. - Have a spouse/common-law partner or parent with a valid study or work permit. - Eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and hold a valid study permit. - Have a temporary resident permit valid for six months or more. - Awaiting a decision on an application for permanent residence made from within Canada. - Have claimed refugee protection or recognized as a Convention refugee/protected person. - Allowed to work in Canada without a work permit but need one for a different job. - Traders, investors, intra-company transferees, or professionals under CUSMA. |
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Open Work Permits |
- Available to spouses of foreign workers and international students enrolled in eligible programs (Master’s, PhD, or select professional degrees). - Dependent children are no longer eligible. |
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Express Entry Category-Based Draws |
- Focus on inviting candidates with Canadian work experience through the Canadian Experience Class. - Prioritize candidates with skills in high-demand sectors (healthcare, trades, education). - Introduce new education categories to align with labor shortages. |
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Permanent Residency Pathways |
- Launch of four new pathways aimed at addressing labor shortages and expanding opportunities, including enhanced caregiver programs and rural community immigration pilots. |
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Application Process |
- Gather required documentation (proof of status, relationship proof, medical exam results if necessary). - Submit applications online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). |
Also Read: Immigration To Canada After 45 in 10 Simple Steps
How To Apply For an Open Permit in Canada in 2025: Step-by-Step Process
To obtain an open work permit in Canada, determine eligibility based on categories like the spouse of a skilled worker or graduate international student. Next, submit a complete application with the necessary documentation and fees. Stay updated on the application status and adhere to any additional requests from Canadian immigration authorities.
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Steps |
Description |
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Step 1: Determine Eligibility |
- Spouses of Foreign Workers: Eligible if the primary worker is in TEER 0, 1, or select TEER 2 and 3 occupations in high-demand sectors (healthcare, construction, technology). The primary worker must have at least 16 months remaining on their work permit. - Spouses of International Students: Eligible if the student is enrolled in a Master’s, PhD, or select professional degree programs (e.g., MD, DDS, JD, BEng). - Dependent Children: No longer eligible for OWPs. - Permanent Residence Applicants: Eligible for Bridging Open Work Permits if awaiting a decision on PR applications. - Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident Pathway Applicants: Can apply under extended policies valid until December 31, 2026. |
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Step 2: Gather Required Documents |
- Valid passport - Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate or common-law relationship proof) - Proof of enrollment for spouses of international students (e.g., letter of acceptance or transcript) - Medical exam results (if required) - Police clearance certificate (if required) - Recent photographs - Immigration status proof in Canada (if applicable) |
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Step 3: Submit Application Online |
- Applications must be submitted online through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Follow these sub-steps: 1. Create an account on the IRCC portal or submit a paper application. 2. Complete and submit required forms such as IMM 1295 (Application for Work Permit Made Outside Canada) and Schedule 1 (Application for Temporary Resident Visa), if applicable. 3. Pay fees: $155 work permit application fee and $100 open work permit holder fee. |
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Step 4: Get Yourself Medically Examined |
- Mandatory if planning to work in certain occupations like healthcare, child care, agriculture, or teaching. Ensure the examination is conducted by a panel physician approved by IRCC. |
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Step 5: Attend Visa Interview |
- If required by the Canadian Consulate, attend an interview to verify application details and intentions. Biometric information may also be collected during this step. |
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Step 6: Wait for Processing |
- Processing times vary based on citizenship and application type: - Online applications typically take 2–4 weeks. - Paper-based applications may take longer (4–6 weeks). - Applicants will receive either a letter of introduction or their work permit upon approval. |
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Step 7: Time to Travel to Canada |
- Once approved, arrange travel and accommodation. Upon arrival at the Port of Entry (PoE), immigration officers will review your documents and confirm your purpose of visit. |
Immigrate to Canada with GetGIS!
Certainly! Canada provides a wealth of information and diverse opportunities, particularly with the availability of the Open Work Permit. At GetGIS, we strive to be your dependable resource to navigate and resolve any obstacles that may arise during your immigration journey.
In addition to our expertise in assisting with the Open Work Permit in Canada, GetGIS offers valuable insights and guidance on various aspects of the immigration process, including obtaining permanent residency in sought-after destinations such as Germany, Canada, Sweden, and Australia.
We understand the significance of your time and appreciate the importance of taking proactive steps toward your immigration goals. Therefore, we encourage you to connect with us and schedule a free consultation today. By doing so, you can benefit from personalized guidance and insights tailored to your specific needs and aspirations. Our team is dedicated to empowering and equipping you with the knowledge and support necessary to make informed decisions and progress confidently in your immigration journey.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a dependent visa required for an open work permit in Canada?
Is an interview required for the Canada open work permit visa?
Is a medical examination required for a Canada open work permit?
Is a Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) required for an open work permit for Canada?
Is an IELTS test required for an open work permit in Canada?
How much money is required for an open work permit in Canada?
