Open Work Permit

Open Work Permit

Work for Any Eligible Employer in Canada

A Canada Open Work Permit allows eligible foreign nationals to work for almost any employer in Canada, without needing a specific job offer or a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This type of work permit offers job flexibility, mobility, and the opportunity to gain valuable Canadian work experience.

At Kayan Immigration Services Inc., we review your eligibility and help you submit a strong, compliant Open Work Permit application.

What is an open work permit?

An Open Work Permit allows you to:

  • Work for most employers in Canada
  • Change employers without reapplying (in most cases)
  • Work in any eligible location

Some conditions may still apply — for example, certain occupations may require a medical exam, and some permits may restrict job type or work location.

Who May Be Eligible for a Canada Open Work Permit?

You may qualify for an Open Work Permit under one of the following categories:

  • Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers in Canada
  • Spouses or common-law partners of international students
  • International graduates who qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
  • Applicants who have submitted a PR application under eligible programs (Bridging Open Work Permit – BOWP)
  • Certain dependent family members of PR or work permit holders
  • Refugee claimants or protected persons (case-specific)
  • Workers considered vulnerable and needing protection

Your eligibility depends on program rules and your current status in Canada — we assess this carefully.

Basic Eligibility Requirements

Applicants may need to show:

  • Valid passport
  • Proof of legal status (if inside Canada)
  • Financial ability to support themselves and dependents
  • Medical exam (for certain occupations/locations)
  • Police clearance (if required)
  • Biometrics (if required)**

Spouses must provide proof of relationship and supporting documents based on their partner’s status.

Types of Open Work Permits

Open work permits can be:

  • Unrestricted Open Work Permit

Work for any employer, any eligible occupation, anywhere in Canada.

  • Occupation-Restricted Open Work Permit

You may work only in specific job types (often based on medical exam requirements).

  • Employer-Location Restricted Open Work Permit

You may change employers but must stay in the same location (rare cases).

We confirm which type applies in your case.

Benefits of a Canada Open Work Permit

  • Freedom to work for any eligible employer
  • Job mobility across industries & locations
  • Opportunity to gain Canadian work experience
  • Supports long-term immigration pathways such as:
    â–ª Express Entry
    â–ª Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
    â–ª Federal Skilled Worker
    â–ª Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

For spouses — it helps families settle together comfortably in Canada.

How Kayan Immigration

Your application is handled by a College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC) who ensures:

  • Correct eligibility assessment
  • Right program selection
  • Strong documentation and explanation letters
  • Proper application filing & follow-up
  •  Guidance on maintaining legal status
  • Support with PR planning after work authorization

Our guidance is honest, ethical, and transparent.