An Open Work Permit (OWP) is a type of work permit in Canada that allows foreign nationals to work for any employer in the country, except those that do not meet the conditions for obtaining a permit. This means that the OWP holder is not tied to a specific employer and can change jobs without having to obtain a new permit. It was the Open Work Permit that was issued to Ukrainians who came to Canada under the CUAET program.
Types of Open Work Permits
There are several categories of OWP:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is issued to international students who have completed their studies at accredited Canadian educational institutions so that they can work in Canada. The duration of this permit can vary from 8 months to 3 years depending on the length of the study program.
- Spousal Open Work Permit is available to spouses or partners of individuals who have a work or study permit in Canada.
- International Experience Canada (IEC) is a special program that allows young people from certain countries to work in Canada on the basis of exchange agreements.
- Individuals who have applied for Refugee Protection status may obtain an OWP while their case is being processed.
How to obtain an Open Work Permit?
Before applying for an OWP, it is important to check whether you meet the requirements for obtaining this permit. For example, if you plan to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, you must:
- Complete a program of study at an accredited Canadian educational institution.
- Have a diploma or certificate.
- Apply within 180 days of receiving your graduation assessment. All applicant requirements can be checked on the official IRCC website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit.html
Prepare your documents
You will usually need:
- Your passport, which must be valid for the entire period of your stay in Canada.
- Passport-size photos that meet Canadian government requirements.
- If you are applying as a spouse or common-law partner, provide proof of your relationship, such as a marriage certificate or joint tax return.
- If you are a student, include a copy of your study permit and proof of program completion.
- In some cases, applicants must provide a job offer or employment information.
- Depending on your country of residence or the type of work you will be doing, you may need to undergo a medical examination. If you have already undergone one, you can simply add the results to your application.
- You may also need to provide proof of your finances.
Submit your application
Applying for an open work permit is done online, which is very quick and convenient. You will need to create an account on the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website and fill out the application form. If you are applying for a work permit and are in Canada, you will need to fill out form IMM 5710. Those applying from abroad need form IMM 1295.
Pay the fees
When applying for an OWP, you will need to pay the applicable fees. You will need a debit or credit card to do this. The payment usually includes two amounts:
- work permit fee ($155)
- open work permit holder fee ($100)
Wait for a decision
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for a decision. Processing times vary depending on the type of OWP and other factors. Check the status of your application through your IRCC account. If the decision is positive, you will receive your work permit by mail at the address you provided.