An Open Work Permit (OWP) authorizes a foreigner to work in Canada in ANY job, without restrictions.  The holder of an OWP does not need an LMIA or confirmation of employment first.  Once issued an OWP, the holder can apply and work in any job/occupation in Canada.

Spouses & Common-Law Partners of Skilled Workers, Foreign Students and Provincial Nominee Program Nominees

A TFWP Canada work permit holder’s family may come with them to Canada.All family members must complete their own application forms, but they can be submitted together.If a family member wants to work in Canada, they will need their own Canada work permit. If a temporary foreign worker’s children would like to study in Canada, they need a study permit. A spouse’s eligibility for an open work permit depends on the skill level of the temporary foreign worker’s job. A high-skilled foreign worker’s spouse could be eligible for an open work permit, provided the foreign worker is authorized to work in Canada for at least six months. A low-skilled worker’s spouse will only be eligible for an open work permit through an active pilot project. Dependent children are only eligible for an open work permit through an active pilot project
A TFWP Canada work permit holder’s family may come with them to Canada.All family members must complete their own application forms, but they can be submitted together.If a family member wants to work in Canada, they will need their own Canada work permit. If a temporary foreign worker’s children would like to study in Canada, they need a study permit.
A spouse’s eligibility for an open work permit depends on the skill level of the temporary foreign worker’s job. A high-skilled foreign worker’s spouse could be eligible for an open work permit, provided the foreign worker is authorized to work in Canada for at least six months. A low-skilled worker’s spouse will only be eligible for an open work permit through an active pilot project. Dependent children are only eligible for an open work permit through an active pilot project.

Inland Sponsorship 

Spouses and common-law partners being sponsored through the Inland Spousal/Common-Law Partner Sponsorship Category of the Family Class can be granted an open work permit while the application for permanent residence is being processed.  This allows the Spouse/Common-law partner to work in any job while waiting for permanent residence application to be processed.

international Graduates

To be eligible for an open work permit, graduating international students must meet the requirements under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.

International Experience Canada

Open work permits are also available to candidates for the International Experience Canada Candidates (IEC) under the Working Holiday category.