Canada’s Open Work Permit permits foreign nationals to work for nearly any employer without requiring a job offer beforehand, allowing them to freely explore different roles, industries, and provinces. As of August 2025, updated eligibility rules and processes have made the application process easier for recent graduates, skilled professionals, and spouses of international students.
Who Can Apply for the Canada Open Work Permit in August 2025?
The Canada Open Work Permit continues to be accessible to different types of foreign nationals. These include candidates for permanent residence under the inland spousal sponsorship program, wives or common-law partners of skilled workers and international students, participants in the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, and specific vulnerable workers who are subjected to maltreatment at work. Post-graduation work permit (PGWP) holders will also have more freedom starting in August 2025, with a streamlined extension process.
Read Also:
Fully Funded 2025 King Saud University Scholarship in Saudi Arabia
Top 10 Easiest Countries to Get Permanent Residency for International Students
Health Insurance Certification Online in Canada
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for a Canadian Open Work Permit
1: Gather Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Previous Canadian visas (if applicable)
- Proof of relationship (e.g., marriage certificate for spouses)
- Recent passport-sized photo
- Any other documents requested by IRCC
2: Create an IRCC Account
- Visit the IRCC portal
- Register and create a secure account
3: Start and Complete the Online Application
- Select “Open Work Permit”
- Fill out the application form accurately
- Upload all supporting documents
4: Pay the Required Fees
- Submit payment for the work permit application and biometrics (if applicable)
5: Submit Your Application
- Double-check that all documents and information are correct
- Submit your completed application through the IRCC portal
6: Biometrics Appointment
- Wait for a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL)
- Book an appointment and submit biometrics at a Visa Application Centre (VAC)
7: Await Processing
- Processing time: Typically 6 to 10 weeks (may vary by country)
- You may be called for an interview if required
8: Receive Decision
- If approved, you’ll get a Letter of Introduction
9: Travel to Canada
- Present the Letter of Introduction at a Canadian port of entry
- An immigration officer will issue your Open Work Permit upon arrival
Documents Required & Processing Fees for Open Work Permit
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Application Form | IMM 5710 (for applicants inside Canada) or IMM 1295 (for applicants outside Canada) |
| Valid Passport | Must be valid for the entire duration of the requested permit |
| Application Fee | CAD 255 (includes CAD 155 work permit fee + CAD 100 open work permit holder fee) |
| Biometrics | Required for most nationalities — additional fee of CAD 85 |
| Proof of Relationship | Required for spouses — may include marriage certificate, joint bank accounts, etc. |
| Processing Time | 6–10 weeks (for online applications; varies by country) |
Advice for an Effective Application
Maintaining consistency in your personal information across all papers is crucial. Verify spellings and passport numbers again, and if the translation is not in English or French, make sure it is certified.
Furthermore, label each file appropriately and upload crisp scans. If you’re applying under special or delicate conditions, like escaping abusive work, think about including a letter of explanation.
Following Arrival in Canada
You can start working as soon as you get to Canada and get your work permit at the border. You can apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN) at Service Canada that same day. Make sure you are aware of your rights under Canadian labor laws as a worker and get in touch with local settlement services for help finding a job, housing, and language support if needed.
Discover more from Examsabi
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
