Open work permit (No LMIA required): This type of work permit is not restricted to any employer or job; therefore, the open work permit holder can work for any employer without the need for an LMIA. In special circumstances, the IRCC can apply certain restrictions on the permit holder despite having an open work permit such as limiting the employee not to work in the medical sector, or strip tease, etc. Please always check the bottom of your work permit to understand the limitations of your work permit (if any).
Who can obtain an Open Work Permit?
The following people can obtain an open work permit:
1) If you have been accepted (approved) in a provincial nominee program (such as BCPNP, etc.) or in a federal immigration program such as FSWP, FSTP, C.E.C, etc. until you receive your C.O.P.R (confirmation of permanent residence).
2) Family member of a permanent resident.
3) Spouse of a common-law partner of a PR or Citizen.
4) Spouse of a common-law partner of a highly skilled worker who works in TEER 1, 2 OR 3.
5) Spouse of a common-law partner of an international student enrolled in D.L.I.
6) Spouse of a common-law partner of a provincial nominee.
7) A temporary resident permit (T.R.P) holder if the permit is issued for more than 6 months.
8) Refugee claimants and convention refugees.
9) in special circumstances, IRCC will issue an open work permit to a foreign national who is stuck in Canada and has no other means of support, such as rejected refugees who are not being removed due to moratorium (on removal) or other reasons.
10) International students after graduating D.L.I.
11) Family members of foreign diplomats, and military to work in Canada.