“How to Get a Canadian Open Work Permit in 2024”

How to Get an Open Work Permit in Canada: Types, Eligibility & Application Process

Looking to work in Canada without being tied to one employer? An Open Work Permit (OWP) might just be your ticket. These permits give foreign nationals the flexibility to work for most Canadian employers—without needing a specific job offer.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of open work permits available in Canada, who’s eligible for them, how to apply, and what restrictions you should be aware of. Whether you’re an international grad, a spouse of a temporary worker, or a young traveller from abroad, there may be a path for you.

Key Highlights

• Open Work Permits allow foreign nationals to work for most employers across Canada.
• Common types include PGWP, SOWP, BOWP, IEC Working Holiday, and PNP candidate permits.
• Eligibility depends on your status—student, spouse, refugee claimant, PR applicant, or nominee.
• The application process is done through IRCC’s secure online portal using personalized checklists.
• Some permits have restrictions such as location or employer limitations.
• Medical exams may be required for certain occupations involving public health or safety.

What Is an Open Work Permit (OWP)?

Unlike employer-specific work permits, an OWP lets you work for almost any Canadian employer. It’s a great option if you’re waiting for permanent residency, accompanying a spouse, or looking for a way to experience Canadian work culture firsthand.

However, not everyone qualifies. Open work permits are only available under specific scenarios—and each has its own criteria.

Types of Open Work Permits in Canada

Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common types and who they’re for:

If you’re just getting started, the easiest route may be to study in Canada and then apply for a PGWP after graduation. If you’re from a participating country and aged 18–35 (or 30 in some cases), the IEC Working Holiday permit is another fantastic option.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Who’s Eligible?

To qualify for a PGWP, you must:

• Complete a full-time program at a designated learning institution (DLI) that’s at least 8 months long.
• Maintain full-time status throughout your studies (except final semester).
• Apply for your PGWP within 180 days of graduating.
• Hold or have held a valid study permit during that 180-day window.

Eligibility can also depend on your field of study and whether your program is PGWP-eligible. Be sure to check the CIP code list and apply before key deadlines.

How to Apply

1. Confirm eligibility by reviewing your school and program requirements.
2. Visit the IRCC website and read the appropriate instruction guide (Guide 5580 for in-Canada applications).
3. Sign into your IRCC Secure Account and answer questions to get a personalized document checklist.
4. Upload your documents, including proof of program completion.
5. Pay the application fee ($155) and OWP holder fee ($100), then submit.

Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)

Who Qualifies?

If your spouse or common-law partner is either:

• Working in a skilled occupation (TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3), or
• Studying in a Master’s, PhD, or certain professional programs

You may be eligible for a SOWP. You must also prove your relationship is genuine and meet temporary resident requirements (or have maintained status).

How to Apply

You can apply alongside your spouse’s application or separately. Either way:

1. Answer eligibility questions in your IRCC Secure Account.
2. Submit required documents, including relationship proof and status documents.
3. Pay the fees and submit your application online.

IEC Working Holiday Permit

This is a popular option for young travellers from countries like Australia, the UK, Germany, and more. Check if your country is on the IEC list.

To Be Eligible You Must:

• Be aged 18–30 or 18–35 (depending on your country).
• Have a valid passport, health insurance, and $2,500 CAD to cover expenses.
• Not be accompanied by dependents.

Application Steps

1. Use the “Come to Canada” tool to check eligibility.
2. Create and submit your IEC profile.
3. If invited, accept your Invitation to Apply (ITA) within 10 days.
4. Submit your work permit application within 20 days of accepting the ITA.
5. Pay the $279.75 CAD total fee and upload all documents.

Open Work Permits for PNP Candidates

If you’re being considered for nomination under a program like the Manitoba PNP or Yukon’s program, you might qualify for an OWP under a temporary public policy.

Requirements Include:

• A current or recent valid work permit (or maintained status).
• A support letter from the province and a job offer.
• A valid temporary resident status at the time of applying.

When applying, use the province-specific code (e.g. MBEOI2024 for Manitoba) in your application form.

Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

Waiting for your PR application to be processed? A BOWP lets you continue working while you wait.

You Must:

• Have applied for PR under Express Entry, PNP, Agri-Food, or other eligible streams.
• Be in Canada with a valid work permit or maintained status.
• Have received an AOR (Acknowledgment of Receipt).

Once eligible, log into your IRCC Secure Account, select “Open Work Permit,” upload your documents and submit your application with applicable fees.

Refugee Claimant Work Permit

If you’ve submitted a refugee claim and are waiting for a decision, you may be eligible for an OWP.

Conditions Include:

• Proof of refugee claim and eligibility decision.
• Completed medical exam and biometrics.
• Evidence you need work to support yourself financially.

Fees may be waived in some cases, especially if your claim is still under review.

Restrictions and Limitations of OWPs

While OWPs offer flexibility, there are some limitations:

• You can’t work for employers listed as non-compliant