Work Permit

Possible to apply for an open work permit in Canada while you are staying in the country on a student permit or a work permit. An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada without the need for a specific job offer.

Here are a few scenarios where you may be eligible to apply for an open work permit:

1. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): If you have recently completed a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada, you may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit. The PGWP allows you to work in Canada for a period of time related to the length of your study program, up to a maximum of three years.
2. Spousal or Common-Law Partner Work Permit: If your spouse or common-law partner is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be eligible for an open work permit as their dependent. This allows you to work in Canada while they reside in the country.
3. Bridging Open Work Permit: If you have applied for permanent residence in Canada and are currently on a valid work permit or study permit, you may be eligible for a bridging open work permit. This permit allows you to continue working in Canada while your application for permanent residence is being processed.
4. Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds: If you are in Canada and you are facing exceptional circumstances that make it difficult for you to return to your home country, you may be eligible to apply for an open work permit on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. This option is typically available for individuals with compelling reasons to stay in Canada.
5. Refugee Claimant: If you have filed a claim for refugee protection in Canada and your claim is still being processed, you may be eligible for a work permit while your claim is being assessed. This allows you to work in Canada during the processing period.
6. Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP): The AIPP is a regional immigration program that operates in the Atlantic provinces of Canada (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador). Under this program, employers can hire foreign workers who have received a job offer from a designated employer in the Atlantic region. If you secure a job offer through the AIPP, you may be eligible for an open work permit.
7. International Experience Canada (IEC): The IEC program allows young individuals from certain countries to obtain an open work permit to gain work experience in Canada. The program has different categories, such as Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op, each with specific eligibility criteria.
8. Caregiver Program: If you are working or have worked in Canada as a caregiver, you may be eligible for an open work permit under the Home Child Care Provider or Home Support Worker pilots. These pilots provide pathways to permanent residence and offer open work permits to eligible applicants.
9. Canadian Interests: If you have a specific job offer from a Canadian employer that falls under certain categories, such as significant economic, social, or cultural benefits to Canada, you may be eligible for an open work permit through the Global Talent Stream or other employer-driven programs.
10. Temporary Resident Permit (TRP): In exceptional circumstances, individuals who are inadmissible to Canada but have compelling reasons to be allowed to work in the country may be granted a TRP. This permit is issued on a discretionary basis and allows temporary entry into Canada, including the authorization to work.
11. The vulnerable work permit is an open work permit available in Canada. It allows individuals who are experiencing or have experienced abuse, and are unable to leave their abusive situation, to work temporarily in Canada. This permit is designed to provide economic independence and support to those in vulnerable situations. It is issued on a case-by-case basis, and applicants must demonstrate their eligibility and meet specific criteria to be granted this work permit.

It’s important to note that eligibility criteria, application requirements, and processing times can vary depending on your specific situation and the type of open work permit you are applying for. It is advisable to review the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or consult with an immigration professional for the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding open work permits in Canada.