Which Canada Work Permit Is Right for You – Open or Closed?
- immigration-conultant
- Apr 9
- 3 min read
When planning to work in Canada, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing between a Canada Open Work Permit vs Closed Work Permit. Each type of permit offers different advantages depending on your goals, job situation, and immigration pathway. Whether you are moving independently or through a Canadian employer, understanding these options is key to making the right choice for your future.
At GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES, we help professionals, students, and skilled workers navigate Canada’s complex immigration system with confidence and ease.
What is a Canada Open Work Permit?
A Canada Open Work Permit allows you to work for any employer across Canada without needing a specific job offer at the time of application. This is a flexible option for:
Spouses/common-law partners of international students or skilled workers
International graduates eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) holders awaiting PR decisions
Applicants under specific humanitarian or public policy programs
Key Benefits:
No job offer required
Work for multiple employers or change jobs easily
Ideal for those seeking freedom and flexibility in employment
What is a Closed Work Permit?
A Canada Closed Work Permit, also known as an Employer-Specific Work Permit, ties you to one employer, one job, and one location. It's typically issued when:
A Canadian employer obtains an approved Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
You're hired under the Global Talent Stream, Intra-Company Transfer, or other employer-driven programs
Key Features:
You must work for the specific employer listed on your permit
Changing employers requires a new application
Suitable for applicants with confirmed job offers
Canada Open Work Permit vs Closed Work Permit: Which One is Right for You?
Criteria | Open Work Permit | Closed Work Permit |
Job Offer Required | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
Employer Flexibility | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
Application Basis | PR pathway, PGWP, Spousal | Employer-specific |
Processing Time | Moderate | Often faster with LMIA |
Long-term Settlement | Good for gaining Canadian work experience | Strong option for employer-driven PR |
Choose an Open Work Permit if:
You value job flexibility
You're accompanying a spouse in Canada
You’re a recent graduate or waiting on your PR
Choose a Closed Work Permit if:
You have a secured job offer from a Canadian employer
You're part of a specific employer-sponsored program
You're on a path to PR through employer support
Canada Work Visa Fees from India
When applying for a Canada Work Visa from India, it’s essential to understand the associated fees to plan your budget accurately. As of 2025, the standard Canada Work Permit application fee is CAD 155 (approximately ₹9,500), and if biometrics are required, there's an additional fee of CAD 85 (around ₹5,200).
For employer-specific programs like the LMIA-based work permit, the Canadian employer may also need to pay an LMIA processing fee of CAD $1,000.
Fee Breakdown (approximate in INR):
Work Permit Application: ₹9,500
Biometrics (if applicable): ₹5,200
LMIA (paid by employer): ₹61,000
Note: Fees may vary slightly based on currency conversion rates and IRCC updates. For personalized fee guidance and support, consult GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES.
Expert Help from GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES
Choosing the right work permit can directly impact your future in Canada. At GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES, we assess your profile and guide you through the best route based on your qualifications, goals, and immigration status.
Call Us: +91 9266113222 | +91 9266114222 | +91 9266115222
Office Address: Office No. 212, Second Floor, Suneja Tower-1, Plot No. 7, District Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058
Email: info@ggims.com
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