Canada suggests two main work permits for foreign workers: Canada's Open Work Permit and Closed Work Permit. A significant factor in this job surge is the availability of work permits, which allow foreign workers to contribute to Canada's labor market. Each of them has a different criteria, making it appropriate as per the employee's condition.

Types of Work Permits in Canada

Canada offers two types of work permits:

  • Open work Permit

The open work permit has eligibility criteria, if the employers fail to meet the conditions of the company it would be considered ineligible, there are some restrictions there are some companies who need a medical examination before you become their employee. If your open work permit is under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you may only be allowed to work in a specific province.

  • Closed Work Permit

A closed work permit allows a particular employer to work. Unlike an Open Work Permit, this type of permit arrives with certain restrictions and conditions tied to the job offer. Some restrictions are that you will only work for the employer whose name is on the work permit, and there must be a valid offer from a Canadian employer before you apply.

Key Differences: Canada Open Work Permit vs. Closed Work Permit


Feature


Open Work Permit

Closed Work Permit

Employer Flexibility



Work for any Canadian employer (with some restrictions).

Tied to a specific job and employer.


Job Flexibility

can change jobs or employers without needing to apply for a new permit.


Not permitted to change employers or jobs; if you do desire a new job, you must seek out a new permit.

Application Process

less complicated application process; no job offer is required.


Typically requires an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) on top of an employment offer.

Eligibility



available to some groups (spouses, students, refugees, and recent graduates).

Available for applicants who have obtained a confirmed employment offer from a Canadian business.

Duration



Typically shorter, it can be extended under certain conditions.

Granted during the period of the employment contract, which normally lasts two years.

Spouse and Family Rights

An open work permit can be applied for by the spouses of certain students or work permit holders.

Dependent children can also need individual permits, and wives have to apply separately.

Risk of Job Loss

So long as other criteria are met, losing your employment does not affect your stay in Canada.


You may need to leave Canada unless you find a new job and apply for a new work permit if you lose your employment.

Example Scenarios

spouses of postgraduate students, foreign students, refugees, and Canadian employees.

Foreign workers who have been made a formal offer of employment by a Canadian enterprise.

How Does a Canada Work Permit Work?

A work permit for Canada permits foreign nationals to work legally in Canada for a particular employer or occupation. Two primary forms are open and closed work permits. An open work permit allows you to work with any employer in Canada without a job offer. In contrast, a closed work permit is tied to an employer, often with the requirement of a job offer and sometimes a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

Processing Time

Processing Time for Open Work Permits

Without having to be offered a job prior, anyone who has an Open Work Permit (OWP) can work with any employer within the approved country. The processing time generally takes between 3 and 6 months, depending on the country in which the application is made and the number of submissions received during that time.

Closed Work Permit Processing Time (Employer-Specific)

Processing for this authorization can range from four to 8 months or longer because it involves a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or clearance similar in some nations.

Final words

Canada offers two types of permits: Open Work Permit and Closed Work Permits to meet their needs. Where open work permits allow foreigners to come and work for any employer in Canada. Where a closed work permit is job-specific, requiring a valid job offer and often an LMIA. Whether pursuing job flexibility or a detailed work opportunity, Canada’s work permit system assures that foreign workers can contribute actually to the country’s economy.