If you’re headed to work in Canada, it’s important to know what kind of work permit you’ll need. Canada has two primary kinds of work permits: open work permits and closed work permits.
Both permit foreign nationals to work, but each has different levels of flexibility, job choice, and application process. In this post, we’re going to decompose the distinctions between these two permits to make it easier for you to determine which one is best for your career aspirations and personal circumstances.
What is an Open Work Permit?
An open work permit gives you the freedom to work for any employer, in any employment, and in nearly any location in Canada. This permit is not tied to an employer, so changing jobs is a simple process without requiring a new permit.
It’s perfect for individuals who need the ability to try out different types of work or those who don’t have an offer of employment yet.
The advantages of an open work permit are obvious: it provides great mobility. You don’t have to have a job offer to make an application, and there are very limited restrictions on the nature of work that you can do.
Open work permits are found in such things as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for foreign students, Family Work Permits for spouses or common-law partners of students or skilled workers, and Bridging Open Work Permits for those bridging temporary status to permanent residence.
What is a Closed Work Permit?
A closed work permit, or employer-specific work permit, binds you to a particular employer, position, and perhaps location. This is such that you can only work for the named employer on your permit, and job changing would involve seeking out a new work permit.
A closed work permit is ideal for someone who has received a precise job offer and is set to begin working with a named employer.
Closed work permits are tighter in scope than open ones. You must have a legitimate job offer to apply, and in most instances, your employer has to present a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove that it is essential to hire a foreign worker.
Examples of closed work permits are LMIA-Supported Work Permits, Intra-Company Transfer Permits for workers of multinational corporations, and Young Professional Permits under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.
Main Open vs. Closed Work Permit Differences
The biggest open vs. closed work permit difference is the degree of freedom they offer. Open work permits enable you to work for any employer without a specific job attachment, hence more freedom.
This is best for individuals who desire to switch jobs or do not have a job offer yet. Closed work permits, however, tie you to a particular employer, occupation, and place, and you are required to get a job first before applying.
Another significant difference is that open work permits typically don’t need an offer of employment, whereas closed work permits do. If you have a job waiting for you, a closed work permit could be best. But if you want flexibility or the freedom to try things out in different areas, an open work permit would be the better option.
Duration-wise, open work permits are usually connected to the duration of your circumstance, i.e., your studies or immigration status. Closed work permits are usually connected to the employment agreement with your employer and may be renewable based on the conditions of your employment.
When to Opt for an Open Work Permit
You might want to opt for an open work permit if you prefer a liberty of trying out several job opportunities. That is particularly helpful if you are following a skilled worker or international student as a partner or spouse, or if you are a fresh graduate looking to gain work experience in Canada.
Open work permits are also a suitable option if you don’t want to be committed to working for one employer, since they enable you to switch jobs without having to obtain a new permit.
When to Use a Closed Work Permit
A closed work permit is the best option if you have a confirmed job opportunity from an employer who will sponsor your work permit. This is ideal for individuals who already have a job lined up and want to start working in Canada.
If you’re being transferred within the same company to a Canadian branch, a closed work permit would also be required. Additionally, some programs, such as the IEC Young Professional category, offer closed work permits for individuals with a job offer in Canada.
Application Process for Both Permits
The process of applying for an open or closed work permit is very similar. You will need to find out which type of permit you qualify for, obtain the documents required, and apply. The only significant difference is in the supporting documents.
For open work permits, you might not require a job offer, but for closed work permits, you will require proof of your job offer and even an LMIA. Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll wait for processing, which might take some time depending on the kind of work permit you applied for and where you are.
Final Words
An open work permit or a closed work permit will depend on your career aspirations, your working status, and how much flexibility you require. An open work permit is suitable for individuals who want greater liberty in seeking a job or who wish to work for various employers. Closed work permits are more appropriate for individuals who have a job offer already and wish to work for a certain employer.
By understanding the differences between these two types of permits, you can make an informed decision that will help you achieve your Canadian career dreams. If you’re unsure about which permit is right for you, consulting with an immigration expert can provide valuable guidance in navigating the application process.
