Which Work Permit Is Right for You? Open vs. Closed in Canada

*Exploring your options for working in Canada? Learn the key differences between Open and Closed Work Permits to choose the path that best fits your goals.*

When planning to work in Canada, one of the first questions you might ask yourself is: Canada Open Work Permit vs. Closed Work Permit – which one is right for me? Understanding the difference between these two types of permits can greatly impact your career opportunities, flexibility, and immigration journey. At GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES, we specialize in helping individuals choose the right path toward a successful future in Canada.

What is a Canada Open Work Permit?

An Open Work Permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada in almost any occupation. This type of permit is ideal for those who value flexibility and freedom in their employment choices. It is commonly issued to:

Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students
International graduates under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP)
Individuals applying for permanent residency under specific programs

With an Open Work Permit, you are not tied to one employer or job, which means you can switch employers or move cities without applying for a new permit.

What is a Canada Closed Work Permit?

A Closed Work Permit, also known as an Employer-Specific Work Permit, restricts you to work for one specific employer in a designated role and location. This is usually issued when:

A Canadian employer offers a job supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
You’re entering Canada through an employer-sponsored immigration stream

While this type of permit offers job security, it limits your ability to change employers unless you apply for a new permit.

Key Differences: Open vs. Closed Work Permit

Feature	Open Work Permit	Closed Work Permit
Employer Flexibility	Yes	No
Job Role Flexibility	Yes	No
Requires LMIA	No	Usually Yes
Freedom to Change Jobs	Yes	No

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between an Open and Closed Work Permit depends on your individual goals, qualifications, and circumstances. If you're looking for career flexibility and broader opportunities, an Open Work Permit may be the better fit. However, if you have a confirmed job offer and want to gain Canadian work experience, a Closed Work Permit could be the right choice.

Still unsure? GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES is here to guide you through every step of the process. Our experienced consultants will assess your profile and help you choose the best work permit option tailored to your needs.