If you’re looking to work in Canada and don’t have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may still be able to apply for an open work permit. In this article, we’ll cover the steps to apply for an open work permit in Canada in 2023.

What is an open work permit?

An open work permit allows you to work for any Canadian employer, with some exceptions. This type of permit is not tied to a specific job or employer, which gives you the freedom to change jobs and employers without needing to apply for a new work permit.

Who can apply for an open work permit in Canada?

You may be eligible to apply for an open work permit if you meet one of the following criteria:

1. You’re a dependent family member of someone who has a study permit, a work permit, or is a visitor in Canada.
2. You’re the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker, international student, or foreign national who has been granted permanent residence in Canada.
3. You’ve graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution and are applying for a post-graduate work permit.
4. You’re a refugee claimant or protected person in Canada.
5. You’re under an unenforceable removal order.

How to apply for an open work permit in Canada in 2023

Here are the steps to apply for an open work permit in Canada in 2023:

Step 1: Check your eligibility Before you apply for an open work permit, you must make sure that you’re eligible. Review the criteria listed above to see if you qualify.

Step 2: Gather your documents You’ll need to gather some documents to support your application, including:

• A valid passport
• A letter of explanation outlining why you’re applying for an open work permit
• A copy of your job offer, if you have one
• Proof of your relationship to the person who holds a study permit, work permit, or is a visitor in Canada (if applicable)
• Proof of your spouse or common-law partner’s status in Canada (if applicable)
• Proof of your graduation from a Canadian post-secondary institution (if applicable)
• Your refugee claimant document or protected person status document (if applicable)
• Your unenforceable removal order document (if applicable)

Step 3: Fill out the application You can fill out the application for an open work permit online or on paper. Make sure you fill out all the required fields and provide accurate information.

Step 4: Pay the application fee The application fee for an open work permit is CAD 255. You can pay the fee online or at a financial institution in Canada.

Step 5: Submit your application Once you’ve completed your application and paid the fee, you can submit it online or by mail. If you’re submitting your application by mail, make sure to include all the required documents and the correct fee.

Step 6: Wait for a decision The processing time for an open work permit application varies depending on your country of residence and the time of year. You can check the current processing times on the Government of Canada website.

Conclusion

Applying for an open work permit in Canada can be a complex process, but it’s worth it if you want to work in Canada without a specific job offer. By following the steps outlined above and ensuring that you meet the eligibility criteria, you can increase your chances of a successful application. Good luck!