Work Permits (Canada)

Work Permit options made simple — with clear pathways & documentation.

This page explains the most common work permit types: employer-specific permits (LMIA/LMIA-exempt), Open Work Permits, PGWP, BOWP, and Open Work Permits for vulnerable workers, plus family work permit eligibility.

Employer-Specific Open Work Permits PGWP BOWP Vulnerable Workers OWP
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Tip: The correct permit depends on your status, job offer/LMIA (or exemption), and where you’ll apply from (inside or outside Canada).
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We verify eligibility, prepare your evidence package, and draft a strong submission strategy.
On this page
1) Work permit types 2) PGWP (after graduation) 3) BOWP (bridging) 4) Open WP for Vulnerable Workers 5) Spouse & dependent eligibility 6) Document checklist 7) Next steps
1) Work permit types
Most work permits fall into one of two categories: Employer-Specific (tied to a job/employer) or Open Work Permits (not tied to one employer).

Employer-Specific Work Permit

You can work only for the employer listed on your permit. This pathway is commonly LMIA-based, or LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program (depending on your category).

  • LMIA-based permits (job offer + positive LMIA)
  • LMIA-exempt permits (eligible exemption + employer steps)

Open Work Permit

Generally allows work for most employers (with some restrictions). Eligibility is based on your situation (for example: PGWP, some spouses, some PR applicants, special policies).

  • PGWP (graduates)
  • BOWP (PR applicants)
  • Vulnerable workers OWP
Official IRCC reference (opens new tab)
If you want the official IRCC page, use this link: IRCC – Work permits
2) PGWP – Post-Graduation Work Permit
A PGWP is an open work permit for eligible graduates of PGWP-eligible programs at eligible schools. Graduating from a DLI alone does not automatically make you eligible — the program and eligibility rules matter.

Core eligibility (common)

  • Completed an eligible program (minimum length requirements apply)
  • Maintained required student status during studies (part-time often only allowed in specific situations)
  • Applied within the allowed time window after program completion

What we focus on

  • Confirm program/school eligibility
  • Check study history & breaks
  • Prepare clear evidence and a strong explanation if needed
Official IRCC PGWP page (new tab)
3) BOWP – Bridging Open Work Permit
A BOWP lets eligible permanent residence applicants keep working while waiting for a final decision on their PR file. It is typically used when a current work permit is expiring and the PR application meets BOWP criteria.

Typical scenarios

  • Express Entry PR applicants waiting for decision
  • Some PNP applicants (depending on stream and evidence)
  • Other eligible PR categories listed by IRCC

We help with

  • Confirming eligibility and timing
  • Preparing the supporting documents
  • Avoiding gaps and compliance issues
Official IRCC BOWP page (new tab)
4) Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers (VOWP)
This is an open work permit designed to help workers leave an abusive or at-risk employment situation in Canada. It can allow you to change employers without being stuck with an employer-specific permit when abuse is involved.

When it may apply

  • You are in Canada on an employer-specific work permit
  • You are experiencing abuse or are at risk of abuse related to your job
  • You need a safer option to work while leaving the situation

How we support

  • Confidential intake & safety-first approach
  • Evidence packaging & clear written submissions
  • Strategy to transition to safer employment
Official IRCC VOWP page (new tab)
5) Open Work Permits for spouses & dependent children of foreign workers
IRCC changed the eligibility rules for family open work permits effective January 21, 2025. As a result, only select spouses/common-law partners may qualify under this measure, and dependent children generally are no longer eligible under this specific family OWP measure.

Spouse/common-law partner

Eligibility depends on the principal worker’s situation and category. The worker’s occupation/TEER, pathway, and specific criteria can impact the spouse’s eligibility.

  • Must meet the updated eligibility rules
  • Must provide relationship evidence
  • Must show the principal worker’s valid status and qualifying work authorization

Dependent children

Under the updated measure, dependent children (and their dependents) are generally no longer eligible for an open work permit through this specific family OWP policy.

  • Other pathways may still exist depending on facts
  • Always verify current category and timing before applying
Official IRCC reference (opens new tab)
See the detailed eligibility rules here: IRCC – Family members of foreign workers (Eligibility)
6) Document checklist (typical)
Exact documents vary by pathway. This is a general checklist we tailor to your case:

Identity & travel

  • Valid passport (and prior passports if relevant)
  • Digital photo (as per specs)
  • Status documents (current permit/visa, if applicable)

Job / permit basis

  • Job offer / contract
  • LMIA (if required) OR exemption proof
  • Employer compliance proof / offer number (if applicable)

Qualifications

  • Resume + reference letters
  • Education credentials
  • Licensing (if occupation is regulated)

Family / special category

  • Marriage/relationship proof (for spouse OWPs)
  • PR application proof (for BOWP)
  • School completion proof (for PGWP)
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