An open work permit allows foreign nationals to work for any employer in Canada without having a specific job offer or a labor market impact assessment (LMIA). In this article, we will guide you through the process of applying for a Canada open work permit.
Determine your eligibility
Before proceeding with the application process, it is essential to check if you are eligible for an open work permit. There are different categories of open work permits, and each has its own set of eligibility criteria.
One of the most common categories is the post-graduation work permit (PGWP). This type of permit is available to international students who have completed their studies at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada and wish to gain work experience in the country.
To be eligible for a PGWP, you must have completed a full-time program of study that lasted at least eight months. You must have also graduated from a DLI that is recognized by the Canadian government.
Another category of open work permit is the spouse or common-law partner work permit. This type of permit allows the spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to work in Canada.
To be eligible for this type of permit, you must be married to or in a common-law relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. You must also prove that your spouse or partner has applied for permanent residency in Canada.
Gather your documents
Once you have determined your eligibility for an open work permit, you need to gather the necessary documents to support your application. The required documents may vary depending on the category of open work permit you are applying for.
Generally, you will need to provide a valid passport or travel document, two recent passport-size photographs, and proof of your eligibility for the permit.
For a PGWP application, you will need to provide a letter of completion from your DLI, along with transcripts and other supporting documents. You may also need to provide proof of language proficiency and financial support.
For a spouse or common-law partner work permit application, you will need to provide proof of your relationship with the Canadian citizen or permanent resident, such as a marriage certificate or common-law declaration. You may also need to provide a copy of your spouse or partner’s permanent residency application.
Submit your application
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your open work permit application. You can apply online or by mail, depending on your category of application.
If you are applying for a PGWP, you can submit your application online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. You will need to create an account and follow the instructions to complete your application.
If you are applying for a spouse or common-law partner work permit, you can submit your application online or by mail. You will need to download the application form from the IRCC website, fill it out, and submit it along with your supporting documents.
Wait for a decision
After submitting your open work permit application, you will need to wait for a decision from the IRCC. The processing time may vary depending on the category of your application and other factors such as your country of origin.
For a PGWP application, the processing time is typically around 90 days. If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction that you can use to enter Canada. You will then need to present yourself at a port of entry and show your letter of introduction, along with your passport and other documents.
For a spouse or common-law partner work permit application, the processing time may vary depending on the location where you submitted your application. If your application is approved, you will receive a work permit that allows you to work in Canada for a specified period.
Conclusion
Applying for an open work permit in Canada can be a complex process, but with the right information and guidance, it can be a straightforward process. It is essential to determine your eligibility, gather all the necessary documents, and submit your application correctly.
If you are unsure about any aspect of the application process, it is recommended to seek the advice of an immigration lawyer or consultant. With patience and persistence, you can achieve your dream of working and living in Canada with an open work permit.
