If you’re planning to work in Canada, understanding the difference between open work permit vs closed work permit is crucial. Each has its own rules, benefits, and restrictions. Choosing the right one can impact your job opportunities, flexibility, and even your path to permanent residency.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Canadian work permit types, their eligibility, and how to decide which one suits your situation best.
What is an Open Work Permit?
An open work permit lets you work for almost any employer in Canada, with a few exceptions. Unlike a closed work permit, it’s not tied to a single job or company. This means more freedom to switch jobs if needed.
Who Qualifies for an Open Work Permit?
- Spouses or partners of international students or skilled workers.
- Recent graduates from a Canadian institution (Post-Graduation Work Permit holders).
- Applicants under certain immigration programs (e.g., bridging work permits for PR candidates).
- Refugees or vulnerable workers.
Types of Jobs Allowed
You can work in any job (except restricted industries like adult entertainment) without needing a new work permit if you change employers.
What is a Closed Work Permit?
A Closed Work Permit (or Employer-Specific Work Permit) is tied to one employer. You can only work for the company listed on your permit. If you want to switch jobs, you’ll need a new permit.
Who Needs a Closed Work Permit?
Most foreign workers coming to Canada for a specific job need this permit. The employer usually has to get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to prove no Canadian could fill the role.
Restrictions to Know
- You cannot change employers without applying for a new permit.
- Your job role, location, and employer must stay the same as listed on the permit.
Key Differences: Open Work Permit vs Closed Work Permit
Job Flexibility
- Open Work Permit: Work for almost any employer in Canada (only a few restricted industries don’t qualify).
- Closed Work Permit: Can only work for the employer listed on your permit.
Employer Dependency
- Open Work Permit: No restrictions – change jobs freely.
- Closed Work Permit: Locked to one employer – need a new permit to switch.
LMIA Requirement
- Open Work Permit: Never requires an LMIA.
- Closed Work Permit: Usually needs an LMIA (unless exempt under special programs).
Duration & Renewal
- Open Work Permit: Typically 1-3 years (depending on type, like PGWP).
- Closed Work Permit: Matches your job contract (often 1-2 years).
Application Process
- Open Work Permit: Simpler – no job offer is always required.
- Closed Work Permit: More complex – employers must be involved.
Pros and Cons: Open Work Permit vs Closed Work Permit
Open Work Permit Advantages
- More job freedom: Change jobs without reapplying.
- No LMIA needed: Faster processing.
- Great for spouses & graduates: Easy entry into the Canadian job market.
Open Work Permit Disadvantages
- Not for everyone: Only certain groups qualify.
- Shorter validity: Some permits expire sooner.
Closed Work Permit Advantages
- Guaranteed job: Employer-specific security.
- Pathway to PR: Some jobs lead to permanent residency.
Closed Work Permit Disadvantages
- Less flexibility: Stuck with one employer.
- LMIA process: Longer wait times.
How to Choose the Right Permit?
Picking between work permit types depends on your situation:
Choose an Open Work Permit if:
- You’re a student’s spouse, a recent graduate, or in a special program.
- You want job flexibility.
- You don’t have a permanent job offer yet.
Choose a Closed Work Permit if:
- You have a confirmed job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Your employer has an LMIA (if required).
- You’re okay with staying in one job for the permit’s duration.
If you start with a closed work permit, you might later switch to an open one if you qualify (e.g., through spousal sponsorship).
Final Thoughts
Understanding the difference between an open work permit and closed work permit helps you make the best choice for your career in Canada. If you value flexibility, an open work permit may be better. However, if you have a solid job offer, a closed work permit could be better to working in Canada.
Before applying, check your work permit eligibility in Canada and consult an immigration expert if needed.
For more related information, checkout Hire Labour Blogs.
FAQs
What is the main difference between an open work permit and closed work permit?
An open work permit lets you work for any employer in Canada (with few exceptions), while a closed work permit ties you to one specific employer.
Who can apply for work permit eligibility in Canada?
Spouses of international students/workers, Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders, refugees, and some permanent residency applicants qualify.
Do I need an LMIA for a closed work permit?
Most closed work permits require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) unless exempt (e.g., under international agreements).
Can I switch from a closed to an open work permit?
Yes, if you later qualify (e.g., through spousal sponsorship or a bridging work permit for PR applicants).
Which permit is better for permanent residency (PR)?
A Closed Work Permit (with LMIA) often helps with PR, but an Open Work Permit (like PGWP) also provides pathways if you gain skilled work experience.
