Canada ranks very high as a top spot for people aiming to live and work abroad. The country provides lots of opportunities.
One popular way to work in Canada involves getting an open work permit. For those interested in applying, this guide explains all the necessary details.
It covers what an open work permit is exactly, eligibility criteria, required documents, and steps to submit an application.
An open work permit lets you work for nearly any employer in Canada. This type of permit offers more freedom than job-specific ones. No job offer is needed when applying, so working for various employers becomes possible.
It also helps in gaining work experience, supporting family, or living in a new country, allowing a potential fresh start in Canada.
Table of Contents
What is an Open Work Permit?
An open work permit lets foreign people work in Canada. An important benefit is that no specific job offer is needed when applying. So, you can apply for jobs with almost any employer, although there are a few restricted industries.
This differs from a regular work permit that requires a job offer first.
Open work permits grant more job freedom. You can even switch employers or change jobs without a new work permit.
However, some limitations include working for companies that do not meet Canada’s labour standards or being involved in certain services like escort services or erotic massage isn’t allowed.
Eligibility for an Open Work Permit
Not everyone can apply for one, but many people qualify. Here are common groups of eligible people for this permit:
Spouses or partners of skilled workers or international students
People whose spouse or partner is working or studying in Canada could get an open work permit.
International students
Those who graduated from a Canadian university or college might qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, another form of open work permit.
Refugees, asylum seekers, and protected persons
People like refugees, asylum seekers, and protected persons might apply for an open work permit while waiting for their case decision.
Bridging open work permit applicants
If your work permit in Canada is expiring soon and you’ve applied for permanent residency, you could request a bridging open work permit to continue working while your residency application is in progress.
Requirements for Canada’s Open Work Permit
To apply for an open work permit you need to meet certain requirements. One of them is being eligible for the permit, as we mentioned earlier.
Also, you have to provide the necessary documents to show you meet the requirements.
Here’s a simple breakdown of the basic requirements:
- Proof of identity: You will need a valid passport or travel document.
- Proof of status in Canada (if applicable): If you are applying from within Canada, you must provide proof of your current status in the country, such as a study permit or visitor record.
- Biometrics: You will be required to submit biometrics, which includes fingerprints and a photo.
- Proof of funds: You need to show that you have enough money to support yourself while in Canada.
- Medical exam: In some cases, you may need to pass a medical exam to ensure you are healthy enough to work in Canada.
How to Apply for an Open Work Permit
The application process for an open work permit is pretty straightforward. You can apply online or through a paper application, but most people choose the online option because it’s faster and easier.
Step 1: Gather Your Documents
Gather all the papers needed before starting your application. Have your passport, proof of money, and papers that show you qualify, like your spouse’s work permit or your study permit.
Step 2: Create an Online Account
Create an account on Canada’s immigration website to apply online. This account is where you fill out your application and upload your papers.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application
After account is set, begin filling out the form. Enter details like your name, birth date, and nationality.
Answer questions about your job experience and why you want to work in Canada.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
Applying for an open work permit costs money. In 2024, the fee is about CAD 155. If biometrics are needed, pay an extra CAD 85.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
After completing the application and paying the fees, submit your application. If applying from outside Canada, give your biometrics at a visa centre in your country.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
Processing time for an open work permit varies, usually taking a few weeks to months. Check your application status online.
Benefits of Canada’s Open Work Permit
An open work permit has many benefits. It lets you work for almost any employer in Canada. You can change jobs or employers freely without needing a new permit. It is useful for exploring different job opportunities or moving to another city.
An open work permit also allows gaining valuable Canadian work experience. This is helpful if you are applying for permanent residency later. Many immigration plans, like the Canadian Experience Class, give rewards to those with work experience in Canada.
Being in Canada with your spouse or partner, an open work permit lets you support them during their study or work. It’s really helpful for making good use of your time well in Canada.
Challenges of the Open Work Permit
Despite the many benefits of the open work permit, some issues also arise.
One issue is not all jobs welcome open work permit holders. Also, working for companies that break Canada’s labour rules, like escort services, is not allowed. While the permit lets you work anywhere, getting a job is not certain.
Another issue involves meeting the eligibility rules. Missing these means a possible application refusal. Ensure that you check everything twice before applying.
Waiting times are often long. You might wait many months to get your work permit. Until then, working isn’t allowed, so applying early and staying patient is really important.
Extending or Renewing Your Open Work Permit
If your open work permit expires soon, extending or renewing it might be possible. Apply for an extension before the current one runs out. Failing to do so might require leaving Canada and applying from outside.
To extend your open work permit, showing you still qualify is necessary. Updated documents like a new passport, if the current one expires soon, are also needed.
Canada open work permit FAQs
Do I need a job offer to apply for an open work permit?
No, you do not need a job offer to apply for an open work permit. That’s what makes it so flexible!
How long does it take to process an open work permit?
The processing time can vary, but it usually takes a few weeks to a few months.
Can I apply for permanent residency with an open work permit?
Yes, having an open work permit can help you gain the work experience needed to apply for permanent residency later.
Conclusion
Canada’s open work permit provides a useful way to live and earn money in Canada in 2024. It gives freedom, letting you work for most employers and learn important skills.
The application process is simple, but you really need to meet the eligibility rules and give all the required papers.
If you want to try life in Canada and use the opportunities there, applying for an open work permit is probably a smart idea.