Canada offers two main types of work permits: Open Work Permits and Closed Work Permits » . Let’s break down the differences:

Open Work Permit: As the name suggests, an open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada. It is not tied to a specific job offer, which gives more flexibility in your employment options. Open work permits are typically issued to spouses of skilled workers or international students, and those applying under certain immigration programs.

Closed Work Permit: A closed work permit, on the other hand, ties the worker to a specific employer and job. To obtain a closed work permit, you need a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, and they must apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This type of work permit offers less flexibility but is necessary if you’re looking to work for a particular company in Canada.