Insights About The Open Work Permit Canada Requirements

This blog is designed to provide comprehensive and 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?

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:

• Unrestricted permits permit changes in employers, occupations, and work locations
• Restricted permits allow changes in employers but not in work occupations
• Another type of restricted permit that enables changes in employers but not in work locations

Permit Holder Categories

Individuals are eligible for an open work permit under specific categories listed in the table below. This permit allows holders to work for any employer in Canada and does not require a job offer.

Eligibility Criteria for Temporary Workers

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.

• Graduated from a designated learning institution as an international student and are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program
• Unable to meet the costs of your studies (destitute student)
• Have an employer-specific work permit and are being abused or at risk of abuse in relation to your job in Canada
• Dependent family member of someone who applied for permanent residence
• Spouse, common-law partner, or dependent child of a low- or high-skilled worker
• Spouse or common-law partner of an international student
• Spouse or common-law partner of an applicant of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program or the Atlantic Immigration Program
• Refugee, refugee claimant, protected person, or their family member
• Under an unenforceable removal order
• Temporary resident permit holder
• Young worker participating in special programs
• Being sponsored as a spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or accompanying dependent child in Canada

Eligibility for In-Canada Applications

To apply for an open work permit from within Canada, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, which include:

• Expiring Study Permit or Work Permit: If your Canadian study permit or open work permit is nearing its expiration date, you may be eligible to apply for an open work permit from within Canada.
• Canadian Educational Degree: Having successfully obtained a degree from a Canadian educational institution can make you eligible to apply for an open work permit from within Canada.
• Maintaining Temporary Resident Status: You must maintain your status as a temporary resident of Canada to be eligible for an open work permit application from within the country.
• Awaiting Refugee Status Decision: If you are in the process of awaiting a decision on your application for refugee status in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for an open work permit from within the country.
• Refugee or Protected Person Status: If you already have refugee or protected person status in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for an open work permit from within the country.
• Denied Refugee Status with Inability to Leave: In cases where your application for refugee status was denied, but you are unable to leave Canada due to circumstances beyond your control, you may still be eligible to apply for an open work permit from within Canada.

How To Apply For an Open Permit in Canada: 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.

Step 1: Obtain a Job Offer

To be eligible for an Open Work Permit, you must first secure a job offer from a Canadian employer. This requires early preparation and actively applying to various companies. You can explore job opportunities through online resources or consider utilizing headhunting services, which, for a fee, can assist you in finding suitable job prospects.

Step 2: Submit Visa and Work Permit Application

If you meet all the necessary requirements and have a job offer, you can proceed to apply for the visa and work permit. The application process is carried out through the Canadian Consulate in your home country. Here are the sub-steps:

• Create an account or submit a paper application. You have the option of applying online through the official Government of Canada website using your credentials or by sending in hard copies of your documents.
• Complete and submit the required application forms, which include forms like IMM 1295 (Application for Work Permit Made Outside of Canada), Schedule 1 (Application for Temporary Resident Visa), and others based on your specific situation.
• Provide supporting documents, such as your valid passport, job offer letter, immigration status proof, police record certificates, educational certificates, and any additional documents as requested by the Canadian Consulate.

Step 3: Undergo a Medical Examination

It is advisable to undergo a medical examination to demonstrate your good health. This examination can be conducted by a licensed doctor who will sign the necessary documents after conducting the required tests. Having a medical exam is essential if you plan to work in certain occupations like child care, teaching in schools, health services, or agriculture.

Step 4: Attend a Visa Interview

The Canadian Consulate may require you to attend a visa interview to assess your intentions to return to your home country after your Open Work Permit expires and to verify the accuracy of your application. During the interview, you'll need to answer any questions posed by the officials. They may also request your biometric information following the interview.

Step 5: Wait for Processing

After submitting your application, documents, and medical records, and completing the interview, you'll need to wait for the processing of your Open Work Permit application. The processing time can vary from 3 to 27 weeks, depending on your country of citizenship. The Canadian Consulate will inform you of their decision after this period.

Step 6: Travel to Canada

If your Open Work Permit is approved by the Consulate, you can make travel and accommodation arrangements for your move to Canada. Upon arrival in Canada, you will go through a checkpoint at the Port of Entry (PoE). The officers will review your documents and inquire about the purpose and duration of your visit.

It's essential to provide them with all the required documents and answer their questions truthfully, as they have the authority to deny entry if they have concerns about your intentions.

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