An Open Work Permit (OWP) allows the holder to work for almost any employer in Canada — unlike a closed (employer-specific) work permit, which restricts work to one employer. Open work permits are available under several categories, each with different eligibility criteria and validity periods. Understanding which type applies to your situation is essential for maintaining legal status and employment flexibility.
Open vs Closed Work Permits
| Feature | Open Work Permit | Closed Work Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Employer restriction | Work for any employer | One specific employer only |
| LMIA required? | Usually no | Often yes (or LMIA-exempt) |
| Can you change employers? | Yes — freely | No — must apply for new permit |
| Based on | Personal status/circumstances | Job offer from specific employer |
Open Work Permit Types — Who Qualifies
1. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
For graduates of PGWP-eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions.
- • Valid for the same length as your program, up to 3 years maximum
- • Must apply within 180 days of receiving final marks/confirmation of graduation
- • Can work for any employer, in any occupation
- • Issued only once — cannot get a second PGWP
2. Spousal / Common-Law Partner OWP
For spouses and partners of certain skilled workers and students in Canada.
- • Spouse of a skilled worker (NOC TEER 0 or 1) with a valid work permit
- • Spouse of a student in a graduate-level program (master's or PhD) — restrictions introduced 2024
- • Spouse of a sponsored PR applicant (inland spousal sponsorship)
- • Typically valid as long as the principal applicant's permit is valid
3. Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
For foreign nationals who have applied for permanent residence and whose work permit is expiring before a PR decision is made.
- • Must have a pending inland PR application (Express Entry, PNP, sponsorship)
- • Current work permit must be expiring or expired within 180 days
- • Allows continued work for any employer during PR processing
- • Does not need to be in the same occupation as previous work permit
4. Vulnerable Worker OWP
For temporary foreign workers who are in an abusive or exploitative situation with their current employer.
- • Available to workers on employer-specific work permits who are being abused or are at risk
- • Allows leaving the abusive employer and working elsewhere while in Canada
- • Covers abuse based on IRPR R207.1 criteria
- • Application fee waived for eligible workers
5. Refugee Claimant OWP
For persons who have made a refugee claim in Canada and whose claim is pending before the Refugee Protection Division (RPD).
- • Available once a refugee claim has been referred to the RPD
- • Allows work for any employer while awaiting refugee hearing
- • Valid until a decision is made on the claim (or departure from Canada)
Generate your work permit document checklist
Our free tool generates a personalized checklist for your specific work permit application type.
Generate Document ChecklistFrequently Asked Questions
Can I switch employers on an open work permit?+
Yes. An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada without restriction — you can switch employers, change industries, or work multiple jobs simultaneously. You do not need to notify IRCC when you change employers. The only exceptions are work permits restricted to certain geographic areas or those excluding specific occupations (e.g., occupations that require a health exam).
Is there any employer I cannot work for on an open work permit?+
Yes. Certain employers are on the "ineligible employers" list maintained by IRCC — these are employers who have been non-compliant with the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Also, open work permits may be issued with conditions excluding specific occupations (such as working with vulnerable populations, which may require a separate medical clearance). Check your permit conditions carefully.
How do I know if my work permit is open or employer-specific?+
Look at the "Employer" field on your physical work permit document. If it says "any employer" or is left blank, it is an open work permit. If it lists a specific employer name and address, it is a closed (employer-specific) work permit.
Can I work full-time on a spousal open work permit?+
Yes. A spousal OWP allows full-time work for any eligible employer in Canada. There are no restrictions on hours, industry, or occupation — with the exception of conditions stated on the permit itself (such as health-sector restrictions).
💼 Get your complete work pathway report
Our $149.99 pathway report gives you a personalized analysis of which open work permit applies to your situation and your route to permanent residence.
Get Pathway Report → $149.99Important: This tool provides general information based on publicly available Canadian immigration law (IRPA). Results are not a determination of admissibility. Only a CBSA officer at a port of entry can make admissibility decisions. For complex legal situations, professional guidance may also be beneficial.