Canada Immigration Update 2026: Open Work Permit Guidelines
Last Updated On 28 January 2026, 10:04 AM EST (Toronto Time)
Canada’s open work permit remains a flexible option for working in Canada, especially for spouses and dependent children of international students and foreign workers. The eligibility criteria have changed since January 2025, impacting who can apply in 2026. This guide outlines the qualifications, recent changes, and the best way to submit a successful application.
Open Work Permit vs. Closed Work Permit
-
- An open work permit allows work for various employers in Canada without needing a job offer or an LMIA.
-
- An employer-specific work permit restricts work to one employer, location, and job, usually requiring a job offer and LMIA.
Actual work hours on an open work permit vary based on employer, job, and labor standards.
Changes in January 2025 and Impact on 2026
-
- Spousal open work permits are now limited to specific groups of spouses of students and workers.
-
- Dependent children generally no longer qualify for new family open work permits.
-
- Existing permit holders continue under previous conditions until expiry.
Common Open Work Permit Pathways in 2026
1) Post-Graduation Work Permit
-
- The post-graduation work permit allows graduates to work in Canada after completing eligible studies.
-
- Eligibility involves attending an eligible school, studying an eligible field, maintaining student status, and applying within the required timeframe.
This pathway is crucial in 2026 for gaining Canadian work experience, supporting permanent residence applications, and forming family plans. It is not a permanent solution and can only be applied for once.
