Canada Open Work Permit: Here Is Who Can Apply

An open work permit allows foreign nationals to work for any Canadian employer for a specific period of time, there are no restrictions. However, there are certain open work permits that restrict the kind of job or place in which the foreign nationals can work in Canada.

To know further about who is eligible to work for an open work permit in Canada and how to apply, read on!

Who is Eligible to Apply For An Open Work Permit in Canada

Here are the eligible nationals to apply for an Open work permit in Canada:

• Foreign nationals with no other means of support
• Permanent residency applicants in Canada)
• Foreign nationals living in Canada for humanitarian reasons
• Participants in certain international student and young worker exchange programs
• The family members of military personnel and foreign representatives
• Professional athletes
• Spouses of skilled worker residents
• Spouses of foreign students
• Foreign nationals currently in Canada whose work permit will soon expire and who have submitted an application for permanent residence under:
  • The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
  • The Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
  • A Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
  • The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
• Foreign nationals who have submitted an application for permanent residence under the Spouse or Common Law Partner stream. Applicants will be able to get an open work permit if:
  • The spouse or common law partner must have submitted a permanent residency application
  • The applicant’s spouse/partner is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • The applicant’s spouse/partner has submitted a sponsorship application on the applicant’s behalf
  • They live at the same address as the sponsor/spouse/partner
  • They have valid temporary resident status as a visitor, student or worker.

Changes to Eligibility in 2025

As of January 21, 2025, the eligibility requirements have changed for open work permits for family members of workers.

If you applied before January 21, 2025:

• Continued process of all applications that were received before January 21, 2025.
  • Applications received before January 21, 2025 will be processed under the previous eligibility criteria.
• If your open work permit was already approved and hasn’t expired, it stays valid.

Your family member’s eligibility depends on

• whether you’re on a pathway or have already applied for permanent residence
• what type of worker you are in Canada
  • any high-skilled occupations in TEER 0 or 1
  • select high-skilled occupations in TEER 2
  • select high-skilled occupations in TEER 3

Eligibility Requirement for an Open Work Permit in Canada

In order to be eligible for an open work permit in Canada, applicants should legally live in Canada or in any home country. The requirements include completing necessary forms, providing proof of identity, and possibly undergoing a medical exam. Applicants must have no criminal record, proof of financial sufficiency, comply with current status conditions, and intend to leave Canada when the permit expires unless seeking a work permit extension.

How to Apply for an Open Work Permit

To apply for open work permits, applicants must follow these steps:

1. Determine Eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria, ensuring all requirements are met, including legal residency and program-specific conditions.
2. Gather Required Documents: Collect necessary documents such as proof of identity, legal status, and any additional program-specific paperwork. Ensure all documents are complete and accurate.
3. Submit the Application: Apply online or via paper, following detailed instructions. Pay the required work permit fee using accepted payment methods.
4. After Submission: Await processing, noting that times may vary. Applicants may receive interim status, allowing them to remain in Canada while the application is processed.

Unrestricted vs. Occupation-Restricted Open Work Permit: Quick Comparison

An unrestricted open work permit allows any foreign national to work for any employer in any job. On the other hand, Occupation-Restricted Open Work permits allow the employer to work in specific occupations. Here is a quick comparison between Unrestricted and Occupation-Restricted Open Work Permit.