Canada Work Permit Guide 2025: Open vs. Employer-Specific

If you're planning to work in Canada, understanding the difference between an Open Work Permit and a Closed Work Permit is crucial. Both allow you to work legally in Canada, but the terms, flexibility, and eligibility vary significantly. Here's a clear comparison to help you choose the best option.

What is a Canada Open Work Permit?

An Open Work Permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with some exceptions. It is not tied to a specific job or employer, giving you the flexibility to change jobs or locations within Canada.

Who Can Apply:

• Spouses of international students or skilled workers

• International graduates under the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

• Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) applicants

• Certain refugee claimants or vulnerable workers

Benefits:

• Flexibility to switch jobs or industries

• No Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) required

• Wider access to the Canadian job market

What is a Closed Work Permit?

A Closed Work Permit (also known as an Employer-Specific Work Permit) ties you to one employer, job role, and location in Canada. It is based on a job offer from a Canadian employer and usually requires an LMIA.

Who Can Apply:

• Foreign workers hired by Canadian employers through programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

• Intra-company transferees

• Employer-nominated applicants under PNP

Benefits:

• Job security through a pre-arranged offer

• Often leads to permanent residency through employer support

• Helps sectors in need of foreign talent

Which One Should You Choose in 2025?

If you’re looking for job flexibility, an Open Work Permit is ideal, especially if you’re a spouse of a skilled worker or a graduate in Canada. However, if you have a confirmed job offer and are ready to work in a specific role or province, a Closed Work Permit may be your direct route to Canadian PR.

How Go Global Immigration Services Can Help

At Go Global Immigration Services, we provide expert guidance on the best work permit pathway for your profile. Whether you’re applying from India or already in Canada, our consultants assist with documentation, LMIA processes, employer connections, and visa filing.

📍 Office: Office No. 212, Second Floor, Suneja Tower-1, Plot No. 7, District Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058

📧 Email: info@ggims.com

📞 Contact: +91 9266113222 | +91 9266114222 | +91 9266115222