Canada Open Work Permit 2025: Canada’s Open Work Permit is considered one of the easiest and most flexible work permits because it does not require a job offer from a specific employer nor an LMIA. With this permit, foreign nationals can work in any province or territory of Canada. This is why it is very popular among those looking for new job opportunities and aiming for better career growth.
What Has Changed After the New Rules
From 21 January 2025, the Canadian government has tightened the rules for the Open Work Permit. Now, spouses of undergraduate students are no longer eligible for this permit. Dependent children are also not included under this category anymore. Only the spouses of students pursuing a Master’s degree or certain selected professional degrees can apply.
Spouses of skilled foreign workers are still eligible, but the worker’s job must fall under TEER 0, TEER 1, or selected TEER 2 and TEER 3 roles. All applications submitted before January 2025 will continue to be processed under the old rules.
Canada Open Work Permit 2025 Overview
This permit is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and its validity usually ranges from 1 to 3 years. It allows foreign workers, spouses of graduate-level students, and some PR applicants to work in Canada. Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s country.
Who Can Be Eligible
Several categories of applicants can still apply for this permit in 2025:
- International students receiving a PGWP, provided they completed at least an eight-month course from a recognized institution.
- Spouses of graduate-level students whose program is 16 months or longer.
- Spouses of high-skilled foreign workers, if the worker’s job falls under eligible TEER groups.
- Individuals waiting for their Permanent Residence application or those who have filed a refugee claim.
- Some applicants may also qualify under the Bridging Open Work Permit category.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
PGWP is an extremely important option for international students who complete their studies in Canada.
- Applications must be submitted within 180 days of receiving the final grades.
- The course must be at least eight months long and completed at a designated learning institution.
- The permit can be valid for up to three years, and students whose PGWP expires in 2024–2025 may receive an additional 18-month extension.
Validity, Fees, and Processing Time
- The validity of an open work permit depends on the main applicant’s permit and is usually 1 to 3 years.
- The application fee is 255 CAD, and biometric charges are taken separately.
- Processing time varies by country and application type—from a few weeks to several months.
How to Apply Canada Open Work Permit 2025
- Most applicants must apply through IRCC’s secure online portal.
- Paper applications are accepted only in special circumstances.
- Those in Canada on a temporary status may apply from within Canada.
- Required documents include a passport, proof of relationship (for spouse applicants), and proof of study or work status.
- In some cases, a medical exam and proof of funds may also be required.
