Eligibility Requirements for Canada Open & Closed Work Permits

Canada work permit eligibility explained – open vs closed permits for foreign workers

If you're considering working in Canada, one of the first steps is understanding the type of work permit you’ll need. Whether you’re a skilled worker, an international graduate, or an employer hoping to hire international talent.

Knowing the Eligibility Requirements For Canada Open & Closed Work Permits is essential for a smooth process. Here's what you should know.

What is an Open & Closed Work Permit?

In Canada, work permits fall into two broad categories: open work permits and closed work permits (also known as employer-specific work permits).

An open work permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada. It offers flexibility and freedom, making it ideal for spouses of international students or skilled workers, graduates with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), or applicants waiting on their permanent residency.

On the other hand, a closed work permit is tied to a specific employer, job title, and location. This means you can only work for the employer named in your permit. These are usually issued after the employer secures a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), showing there’s a need to hire a foreign worker for the position.

How Do I Apply for an Open Work Permit?

To apply for an open work permit, you must meet specific eligibility requirements. Typically, you may qualify if:

You’re the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or international student
You’ve recently graduated from a Canadian institution and are eligible for a PGWP
You’re applying for permanent residency under certain programs and need a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

Applications can be submitted online through the IRCC portal. You’ll need to provide documents such as a valid passport, proof of relationship (if applicable), and evidence of your eligibility. Once approved, an open work permit gives you the flexibility to explore job opportunities across Canada without a confirmed job offer at the time of application.

Who Needs a Work Permit in Canada?

In most cases, if you’re a foreign national looking to work in Canada, you’ll need a work permit. Whether you require an open or closed permit depends on your situation.

You’ll likely need a closed work permit if:

You have a job offer from a specific Canadian employer
Your employer has obtained a positive LMIA to support your application

You may be eligible for an open work permit if:

You’re accompanying a spouse or partner who is a student or skilled worker
You’re applying under certain immigration pathways, such as the PGWP or BOWP

Some jobs, like performing artists, athletes, or clergy, may be exempt from the permit requirement. However, these cases are limited and reviewed individually. Understanding the eligibility requirements for Canada open & closed work permits helps you determine the right path forward.

If You’re an Employer, Contact Go Global Immigration Services

Hiring foreign workers can be a game-changer for your business, but it also involves navigating a complex set of rules and paperwork. Whether you’re looking to sponsor a candidate through an LMIA or are curious about hiring individuals on an open work permit, Go-Global Immigration Services is here to help.

Our team offers end-to-end guidance to employers—from assessing eligibility and preparing applications to ensuring compliance with Canadian immigration laws. If you’re ready to build a stronger team through global talent.