Open vs. Closed Work Permits
| Feature | Open Work Permit | Closed Work Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Employer restriction | Any employer in Canada | One specific employer |
| Job restriction | Any occupation (usually) | Specific job and location |
| LMIA required | No | Usually yes |
| Common examples | PGWP, Spousal OWP, BOWP, IEC Working Holiday | TFWP, most GTS, specific job offer permits |
| Flexibility | High — change jobs freely | Low — must apply for new permit to change employers |
Types of Open Work Permits
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Issued to international graduates of eligible Canadian institutions. Valid for the length of your study program (up to 3 years). No job offer required. Single issuance — cannot be renewed.
Spousal / Partner Open Work Permit
Issued to the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled temporary worker (TEER 0 or 1) or an international student in a graduate-level or professional program. Valid for same duration as primary permit.
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
For workers whose temporary status is expiring while waiting for a PR decision. Covers Express Entry, PNP, Quebec, Home Care, and Agri-Food applicants. Fee: $100.
International Experience Canada (IEC)
Working Holiday Permit for youth (18–35) from 36 partner countries. Open permit for 1–2 years. Young Professional and Co-op streams also available.
Refugee Claimant OWP
Issued to refugee claimants who have passed the eligibility determination. Allows work while the refugee claim is processed. Renewable.
Destitute Student OWP
For international students who cannot financially complete their studies and are leaving Canada. Allows temporary work to fund departure.
Types of Closed Work Permits
LMIA-Based Work Permit
Issued under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. Tied to one employer, one location, and one occupation. Requires a positive LMIA from ESDC and a job offer letter.
CUSMA / USMCA Work Permit
For US and Mexican professionals in 63 designated occupations. Obtained at the port of entry (for US citizens) with a job offer and credential evidence. Fast and efficient.
Intra-Company Transfer Permit
For executives, managers, and specialised knowledge workers moving to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. Under IMP — no LMIA required.
Significant Benefit Work Permit
LMIA-exempt. For workers whose employment provides significant social, cultural, or economic benefit to Canada — artists, athletes, researchers, religious workers.
Work Permit Application Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Who Pays |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit Application | $155 | Worker |
| Biometrics (first-time) | $85 | Worker |
| Employer Compliance Fee (IMP) | $230 | Employer |
| LMIA Application (TFWP) | $1,000 | Employer |
| Open Work Permit Holder Fee | $100 | Worker (BOWP) |
| Restoration of Status | $229 | Worker |
Maintaining Valid Work Status
- Apply to renew early: Submit your renewal at least 30 days before your permit expires to maintain "implied status" (the right to continue working under the same conditions while IRCC processes your renewal).
- Track your permit expiry: Working without a valid permit — even by accident — is a violation that can affect future applications.
- Understand your conditions: Your permit specifies employer, location, and NOC code. Violating any condition can affect your immigration record.
Not Sure Which Permit Applies?
Work permit eligibility depends on your nationality, job offer, employer, and immigration goals. Let David Johl, RCIC, identify your best path.
💬 WhatsApp Free ConsultationThis page is for general information only and does not constitute immigration legal advice. Program rules change frequently — always verify details at canada.ca. For personalised guidance, consult a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). Mirus Immigration · David Johl · RCIC R519520.