Open Work Permit

Eligibility for an OWP is not universal; you must fall into one of several specific categories. You cannot simply apply for an OWP without meeting one of the following criteria:

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Holders: You must have graduated from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). If you graduated from a college program, your field of study must now align with specific labor shortage requirements. You must also meet minimum language standards (CLB 7 for university graduates; CLB 5 for college graduates).
• Spouses and Common-law Partners:
  • Of International Students: You only qualify if your partner is enrolled in a master’s, doctoral, or professional degree program (e.g., Medicine, Law). Spouses of undergraduate or most college students are generally no longer eligible.
  • Of Skilled Workers: You qualify if your partner works in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation and holds a work permit valid for at least six months.
• Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP): If you have already applied for Permanent Residency (PR) and your current work permit is set to expire within four months, you may qualify to keep working while your PR application is processed.
• International Experience Canada (IEC): Available to youth (ages 18–30 or 35, depending on nationality) from countries with reciprocal agreements under the "Working Holiday" category.
• TR to PR Pathway Applicants: If you applied under the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident pathway, you may apply for or extend an OWP until December 31, 2026.
• Vulnerable Workers: If you are currently on an employer-specific permit and are experiencing abuse or the risk of abuse in your workplace, you may apply for an OWP to leave that employer.
• Destitute Students: If you are a student who can no longer afford tuition or living costs due to circumstances beyond your control (such as war or civil unrest in your home country).