Canada Closed and Open Work Permit – Dos and Don’ts

A Canada closed work permit is an employer-specific work permit issued to foreign nationals who have a specific job offer from a particular employer in Canada. Unlike open work permits, which allow holders to work for any employer in Canada, closed work permits tie the foreign national to a single employer for the duration specified on the permit.

To apply for a closed work permit, foreign nationals must have a valid job offer from a specific Canadian employer. This offer must meet certain criteria, including a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in most cases unless the work falls under an LMIA exemption such as intra-company transfers or certain international free trade agreements.

The application process for a closed work permit involves submitting the necessary documents to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), including the job offer, LMIA (if applicable), and other supporting documentation. The applicant may also need to undergo a medical examination and provide biometrics.

Closed work permits are typically tied to a specific position and employer, and the holder must abide by the conditions outlined on the permit. These conditions may include restrictions on the type of work or location where the individual can work.

Foreign nationals holding closed work permits are permitted to work only for the specific Canadian employer named on the permit. If they wish to change employers, they must apply for a new work permit and undergo the necessary processes, which may include obtaining a new LMIA from the new employer or meeting other eligibility criteria.

Closed work permits are often issued for a limited duration, typically corresponding to the length of the job offer or the LMIA validity period. However, holders of closed work permits may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through provincial nominee programs or other immigration programs if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Foreign nationals need to ensure they have accurate information and meet all requirements before applying for a closed work permit. Consulting with immigration consultants or immigration lawyers who specialize in Canadian immigration can help navigate the application process effectively and ensure compliance with immigration laws and regulations.

Suppose you’re looking to apply for a permanent residence status, It’s essential to adhere to certain dos and don’ts to ensure compliance with Canadian immigration regulations and to maintain a positive experience during your stay.

Dos:

1. Follow the conditions of your work permit: Ensure that you comply with all the terms and conditions specified in your work permit, including the type of work you are allowed to do, the employer you are permitted to work for, and the duration of your stay.
2. Keep your work permit valid: Make sure your work permit remains valid throughout your stay in Canada. Renew it before it expires if you plan to continue working in Canada.
3. Inform authorities of any changes: If there are any changes in your circumstances such as a change in employment, address, marital status, or immigration status inform the appropriate authorities promptly.
4. Understand your rights: Familiarize yourself with your rights as a temporary foreign worker in Canada, including employment rights, healthcare entitlements, and access to social services.
5. Maintain legal status: Abide by Canadian laws and regulations at all times to maintain your legal status in the country.
6. Pay taxes: Fulfill your tax obligations by filing income taxes in Canada if you earn income while working in the country.
7. Take advantage of resources: Utilize available resources such as settlement services, language classes, and community programs to help you adjust to life and work in Canada.
8. Seek help when needed: Don’t hesitate to seek assistance from immigration authorities, your employer, or support organizations if you encounter any difficulties while in Canada.

Don’ts:

1. Work without a valid permit: Engaging in employment without the appropriate work permit is illegal and can lead to serious consequences, including deportation.
2. Violate the terms of your permit: Do not work outside the conditions outlined in your work permit, such as working for an employer not authorized by your permit or working in a different occupation.
3. Overstay your permit: Ensure that you leave Canada before your work permit expires, or apply for an extension if you intend to stay longer.
4. Ignore healthcare requirements: Make sure you have appropriate health insurance coverage during your stay in Canada to avoid unexpected medical expenses.
5. Engage in criminal activities: Do not participate in any illegal activities, as this can result in severe penalties, including deportation.
6. Misrepresent information: Provide accurate and truthful information to immigration authorities and employers. Misrepresentation can lead to the refusal of future visa applications and other legal consequences.
7. Accept exploitative working conditions: If you feel that your employer is not providing fair wages or safe working conditions, seek assistance from labor authorities or advocacy organizations.

By following these dos and don’ts, you can have a positive and lawful experience while working in Canada on a closed work permit.