Contents
Applying For An Open Work Permit In Canada
Canada is a popular destination for foreign workers seeking job opportunities and with good reason. The country’s open and welcoming policies towards immigrants have made it an attractive option for those looking to relocate for work purposes.
One of the ways foreign workers can legally work in Canada is through an open work permit. This type of work permit provides individuals with the freedom to choose their place of work within the country and allows for movement between professions and provinces. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the process of applying for an open work permit in Canada and explore the eligibility criteria that need to be met to obtain one.
International scholars
International scholars are an important group of individuals who contribute significantly to Canada’s academic landscape. They are students who come to Canada from other countries to pursue higher education and academic research in various fields. Apart from their academic pursuits, many international scholars also seek employment opportunities in Canada after completing their studies. This is where the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) comes in handy.
The PGWP is a type of work permit that is available to international students who have completed a graduate program of at least 24 months in Canada. This work permit allows them to work in Canada for up to three years after they have completed their studies. The PGWP is an LMIA exempt work permit, which means that employers do not have to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to hire an international scholar with this permit.
To be eligible for the PGWP, international scholars must have completed a program of study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. The program must have been at least 8 months in duration, but no more than 24 months, depending on the length of the program. The IRCC has recently made changes to the eligibility criteria for the PGWP, allowing international scholars to complete their programs online.
See also: Best Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Canada
Openwork permits for citizens belonging to countries with reciprocal agreements
Open work permits for citizens belonging to countries with reciprocal agreements are an excellent option for individuals looking to work in Canada. Canada has agreements with various countries that allow citizens to apply for an open work permit under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.
The IEC program is designed to invite youth from over 30 countries to Canada to work and gain valuable international experience. To be eligible for the IEC program, candidates must be between the ages of 18-35 and meet the eligibility criteria set by the Canadian government. One of the significant benefits of the IEC program is that candidates do not require a job offer to become eligible for a Working Holiday visa.
To qualify for an IEC work permit, candidates must demonstrate that they have enough funds to cover their expenses during their stay in Canada. The IEC criteria require candidates to have a minimum of $2,500 in their bank accounts. The exact amount may vary depending on the length of the stay and other factors.
Citizens of countries with reciprocal agreements with Canada can also apply for open work permits under other programs such as the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement) and the CETA (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement) programs. These programs allow individuals to work in Canada under specific conditions and requirements.
Related: High in-demand Jobs in Canada
Spouses and common-law partners
Spouses and common-law partners of temporary residents, students, and foreign professionals residing in Canada have the opportunity to obtain work permits in Canada. The Canadian Government provides this opportunity to help families stay together while pursuing their goals.
Spouses of Canadian citizens and residents can apply for inland sponsorship to obtain a work permit. Meanwhile, the spouses of temporary workers coming to Canada can also obtain an open work permit, subject to certain eligibility criteria.
Related: Getting a Work Permit After Post Graduation in Canada
To qualify for an open work permit, the foreign worker must hold a valid work permit of at least 180 days after receiving a spousal work permit. Additionally, the foreign worker must meet one of the following four requirements:
- Working in a NOC skill level of A, B, or 0 through the Atlantic Immigration Program.
- Engaged in any profession categorized under any PNP.
- Engaged in any profession owing to a Quebec Selection Certificate.
- Eligible under program-specific requirements.
International scholars enrolled in a program are one of the requirements for getting an open work permit for their spouses. The couple must also demonstrate the genuineness of their relationship, which may require providing evidence of their shared finances, living arrangements, and other factors.
Obtaining a work permit for spouses and common-law partners can be an important factor in the success of a family’s migration to Canada. It allows them to pursue their career aspirations and contribute to the Canadian economy while remaining together.
It is essential to note that work permits for spouses and common-law partners are not automatic and requires meeting specific eligibility criteria. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with an immigration lawyer or a regulated immigration consultant to understand the process and requirements thoroughly.
See also: Process of Spousal Sponsorship in Canada
Application for Canadian PR
The Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) is a unique immigration program that enables immigrants with temporary status to continue living and working in Canada while their application for permanent residency is in process. This program is specifically designed to help individuals who have applied for permanent residency and are awaiting a decision to stay in the country and continue working.
The BOWP is available to individuals who have applied for permanent residency under the following eligible immigration programs:
- Canadian Experience Class
- Federal Skilled Trades Program
- Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Quebec Skilled Workers
- Agri-Food Pilot Program
If an applicant’s work permit is expiring before their permanent residency application is approved, they can apply for a BOWP to continue working in Canada until a decision on their application is made.
One of the significant benefits of the BOWP is that it does not require an LMIA or a job offer, making it easier for individuals to continue working in their current job or look for new employment opportunities. This program also allows immigrants to maintain their status in Canada, which can be crucial for accessing essential services such as healthcare.
It is essential to note that not all applicants are eligible for a BOWP. Applicants must meet specific criteria, such as being eligible for one of the eligible immigration programs mentioned earlier, having a valid work permit that will expire within four months, and meeting the minimum language requirements.
Click Here for more information about Open Work Permit In Canada
Conclusion
Canada offers various opportunities for foreign workers to obtain open work permits. From the International Experience Canada program to the Bridging Open Work Permit, there are multiple pathways available for those who meet the eligibility criteria. Additionally, the government of Canada has provided certain exemptions and leniencies in the eligibility criteria post-pandemic. These measures make it easier for international scholars, spouses and common-law partners, and others to obtain work permits and stay in Canada for longer periods of time. Overall, obtaining an open work permit in Canada can be a great way to gain valuable work experience while exploring a new country and culture.
Other Related Article;
- The Best Way to Come to Canada as a Skilled Worker
- 5 Things You Should Know About Canada Before You Move There
Leave a Reply