Canada Open Work Permit 2024: Easy Access to Working in Canada

Eric Nkom May 16, 2024

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Canada Open Work Permit 2024: Easy Access to Working in Canada

For foreign nationals, an Open Work Permit—also known as an International Mobility program—is unique in Canada. It differs from standard work permits in that it allows you to work across Canada for various employers. For Temporary Foreign Workers, this permit is particularly beneficial.

If they comply with government regulations, individuals are allowed to work and change employers in Canada for a maximum of six months. The ease of application for the Open Work Permit is one of its amazing features. It is not necessary for you to:

Request an LMIA (Labor Market Impact Assessment) from potential employers.
Using the Employer Portal, provide evidence of a job offer, or attest that the employer covered the cost.

Types of Open Work Permits

There are various kinds of open work permits, and each has its regulations:

Free permits: You are free to switch employers, positions, and locations of employment at any time.
Job-limited permits allow you to change jobs, but not bosses.
Permits that are location-limited require you to work in specific locations yet allow you to switch bosses.

The Canadian Consulate will determine the type of Open Work Permit you receive based on the information provided in your application.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for an Open Work Permit, you have to be a member of specific groups, such as:

Individuals who are in temporary residency.
Persons eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit and who have recently completed their education in Canada.
Pupils who struggle to cover their educational costs.
Those wishing to bring their family or themselves to Canada permanently.
Partners of international students or professionals.
Those who are protected, refugees, and so forth.
Young people enrolled in special programs

In addition, temporary workers must demonstrate that they intend to leave Canada when their visa expires, that they can support themselves financially, that they have no criminal history, that they are in good health, and that they are abiding by the conditions of their permit, which may include avoiding working in specific adult positions.

Application and Extension Process

In Canada, you are eligible to apply for or renew an Open Work Permit if:

The time to renew your study or open work permit is almost here.
It was in Canada that you recently received your diploma.
You are a protected person, a refugee, or a temporary resident.
You’re awaiting word on your refugee status or are unable to leave Canada due to exceptional circumstances.
This visa demonstrates how Canada accepts and retains skilled individuals from all around the world, in addition to making it simpler for people to find employment in the country.

How to Apply for an Open Work Permit in Canada

Here is a step-by-step guide to obtaining an Open Work Permit in Canada:

Look for work: Start your search early by visiting employment boards online or by hiring headhunting services, which may have an expense but can assist you in locating acceptable employment.
Make a permit application: Apply for your visa and work permit through the Canadian Consulate in your country of residence as soon as you receive a job offer. What you should do is as follows:

a. Submit your application: You have the option of submitting a paper application or applying online via the Government of Canada website. You’ll need your login credentials or bank account information for online applications.
b. Compile the required paperwork: Fill out IMM 1295 for work permits outside of Canada, Schedule 1 for a temporary resident visa, IMM 5645 for family information, and any other forms that might be relevant to your case.
c. Provide supporting documentation: Attach necessary documents such as your job offer, passport copies, required pictures, and your passport (valid for at least six months after admission).
d. Medical exam: Depending on your profession, you might need to have a licensed physician examine you to make sure you’re in excellent health.
e. Visa interview: Go to the Canadian Consulate for a visa interview, and if necessary, present biometric data.

Await processing: Depending on your citizenship, it may take three to twenty-seven weeks for your application to be processed after you submit it and appear for the interview.
Get to Canada: Plan your trip and lodging in Canada as soon as your permit is granted. Prepare to have your documents and immigration history checked by Port of Entry officials.
Cover the costs: The application for an Open Work Permit costs CAD$155 ($113.22), and the permit itself costs an extra CAD$100 ($73.04), for a total cost of CAD$255 (186.26).

Your common-law partner, spouse, and children under the age of 18 may move to Canada with you. When you apply, be sure to include their documentation so that they can be assessed as well. If they meet the requirements later on, your partner or spouse may apply for their own Open Work Permit.