Open work permit
Statutory definition
IRPR s 185 lists the categories of foreign nationals who are eligible for open work permits. These include: post-graduation work permit holders; spouses/CLPs of skilled workers and international students in certain categories; refugees and protected persons; persons who have applied for permanent residence and are eligible for a bridging OWP; and IEC participants. Open work permits do not specify an employer or NOC code.
Explanation
Open work permits provide maximum employment flexibility. Unlike employer-specific permits, holders can change jobs without requiring a new work permit. The most significant open work permits by volume are the PGWP (for international graduates) and spousal open work permits (for spouses of skilled workers and students). The bridging open work permit (BOWP) allows persons with a pending permanent residence application to continue working after their underlying permit expires. Open work permits are subject to restricted occupations — holders cannot work in positions that require a medical examination if they have not had one.