Must you be invited by an employer to be issued a Canada open work permit?
Are you a foreign worker intending to work in Canada by means of an open work permit? A question that is frequently raised in relation to open work permits is whether it is necessary to have an employer invitation in order to be issued one. This blog will discuss the answer to that question along with other important information about open work permits in Canada.
Definition of Open Work Permit
An open work permit is that type of work permit that generally allows a foreign worker any kind of work with any employer in any location in Canada for a specific timeframe. Unlike a closed or specific work permit tied to a certain employer, it grants much more freedom while working in Canada.
Do You Need an Employer Invitation?
No; you do not need an employer invitation to apply for and be issued an open work permit. A huge advantage of an open work permit is that it allows you to work for any employer in Canada without having to bother with getting a job offer or sponsorship.
EligibilityTo be qualified for an open work permit
certain criteria have to be met, such as:
A spouse or common-law partner of a foreign worker or a student:
If your spouse/common-law partner is working/studying in Canada, you may qualify for an open work permit.
A refugee or protected person:
As a refugee or protected person, you might qualify for an open work permit.
A temporary resident permit holder:
If you hold a temporary resident permit, you might qualify for an open work permit.
Provided you meet the eligibility criteria under the International Mobility Program:
The International Mobility Program allows certain foreign workers the privilege of working in Canada without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
How to Apply
Application for open work permit is made in the following way:
Apply online or on paper:
The application may be filed online or on paper, according to your preference.
Pay the application fee:
The application fee for an open work permit.
Provide required documents:
Required documents are those that include your passport proving language proficiency, verification of education, and work experience.
Processing Times
Open work permits processing time may differ based on how complicated your application is and how fast you provide required documents. Nevertheless, most applications are processed within 2-4 months.
ConclusionIn a nutshell
you don’t need an employer to invite you to be issued an open work permit in Canada. If the eligibility criteria are met and the application is followed, you can get an open work permit and have the most flexibility and freedom to work in Canada.
