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Open Work Permit Canada

· Reviewed by Tamara Bulantseva, RCIC

An open work permit lets you work for almost any employer in Canada, subject to IRCC restrictions (for example employers on the non-compliant list). You do not need a job offer, and employers generally do not need an LMIA or Employer Portal offer for your open permit. Eligibility is limited to specific IRCC categories—such as certain spouses, PGWP graduates, and other listed situations. Most people applying from outside Canada cannot get an open work permit. Confirm your category and fees on Canada.ca before you apply.

Quick reference

Job offerNot required
EmployersAlmost any (with IRCC limits)
Processing fee$CAN 155 (confirm on IRCC)
Open holder fee$CAN 100 (usually; confirm)

Overview

An open work permit authorizes work for almost any employer in Canada without tying you to one job offer. It is the opposite of an employer-specific (closed) permit. Eligibility is narrow: IRCC publishes specific categories, and most overseas applicants cannot get an open permit.

Common situations

Spouse or partner of a student or worker

Some spouses and common-law partners qualify for open permits—but only if the principal applicant meets IRCC’s current criteria. Rules change; confirm your stream before assuming eligibility.

Recent graduate (PGWP)

Eligible graduates may apply for a post-graduation work permit, a common open-permit pathway. See PGWP Eligibility.

Bridging or permanent residence family categories

Certain permanent residence applicants and family members may qualify for open permits under listed programs. Category proof matters more than a generic “I’m applying for PR” statement.

Looking for any Canadian job from abroad

A job search alone does not create an open work permit. Most people outside Canada need an employer-specific pathway (often with LMIA or an LMIA exemption) instead.

What an open work permit allows

According to IRCC, an open work permit lets you work for any employer in Canada except those:

  • listed as non-compliant employers, or
  • that regularly offer striptease, erotic dance, escort services, or erotic massages

You do not need a job offer. Your employer generally does not need an LMIA, Employer Portal offer, or employer compliance fee for your open permit.

Your permit may still restrict occupation, location, or require a medical exam for certain jobs.

Who can apply (high level)

IRCC groups open-permit situations, including (among others):

  • PGWP and certain other student/graduate categories
  • International Experience Canada – Working Holiday (where applicable)
  • spouses/partners of certain students or workers
  • some permanent residence and sponsorship-related situations
  • vulnerable-worker and certain refugee/protected-person situations
  • other listed categories (for example some TRP holders)

Each situation has additional criteria. Use IRCC’s open work permit page and eligibility tool—do not rely on informal lists alone.

Fees

IRCC’s fee list currently shows:

  • Work permit processing: $CAN 155 (including extensions)
  • Open work permit holder fee: $CAN 100 in most open-permit cases

Biometrics may also apply. Fees change—confirm on IRCC’s live fee list when you pay.

Open vs employer-specific

FeatureOpenEmployer-specific
Job offerNot requiredUsually required
Named employerNoYes
LMIA / Portal offerGenerally notOften yes (unless exempt)
Change jobsUsually yes (within permit limits)Usually need new authorization

Details: Employer-Specific Work Permit.

When to get help

Get advice if your category is unclear, a prior refusal exists, your spouse’s status is about to change, or you are choosing between open and closed pathways. Category mistakes waste fees and can create status gaps.

Wondering if an open work permit fits your situation?

Open permits are limited to IRCC-listed categories. Tamara can help you check which pathway—if any—matches your facts.

Book a Consultation

This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.

Before you apply

  • Confirmed you fit an IRCC-listed open work permit category
  • Checked whether you must apply from inside Canada
  • Gathered identity documents and category-specific proof
  • Reviewed medical/biometrics requirements if they apply
  • Budgeted work permit fee plus open work permit holder fee
  • Confirmed live fees on IRCC’s fee list

Frequently asked questions

Can anyone get an open work permit?
No. IRCC limits open work permits to specific situations. Marriage, a job search, or visitor status alone is not enough.
Do I need a job offer for an open work permit?
No. Open work permits are not tied to a named employer. You still must meet category eligibility and admissibility rules.
What fees apply?
IRCC’s fee list currently shows $CAN 155 for a work permit and $CAN 100 for the open work permit holder fee in most open-permit cases. Always re-check before you pay.
Is a PGWP an open work permit?
Yes. A post-graduation work permit is a type of open work permit for eligible graduates. See our PGWP guides.
Can I work for any employer?
Almost any, except employers on IRCC’s non-compliant list or certain restricted businesses. Your permit may also list occupation or location limits.
Is this legal advice?
No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.

See also

References

  1. Open work permits
  2. Who can apply for an open work permit? (Help Centre 177)
  3. How do I apply for an open work permit? (Help Centre 1361)
  4. Citizenship and immigration fees
  5. Work in Canada — work permits

Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on your facts and IRCC’s assessment. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.

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