Any foreign national wishing to work in Canada must have the proper authorization. For the vast majority of foreign nationals, this authorization comes in the form of a valid work permit.
Though, it should be noted that there are certain exemptions to the work permit requirements. The following individuals are eligible to be issued an open work permit:
• Applicants with no other means of support. (Foreign Nationals with No Other Means of Support)
• Certain kinds of permanent resident applicants living in Canada. (Permanent Residence Applicants in Canada)
• Foreign nationals are living in Canada for humanitarian reasons. (Humanitarian-Based Open Work Permits)
• Canada World Youth Program participants
• Participants in certain international student and young worker exchange programs
• The family members of military personnel and foreign representatives who are exempt from the LMIA requirement
• Professional athletes entering Canada who requires other work to support themselves while playing for a Canadian team
• Spouses of skilled worker residents
• Spouses of foreign students

Open work permits are highly sought after for the freedom they give their holders. While most work permits are tied to a specific employer, an open work permit allows a foreign national to work for any employer in Canada and the freedom to move from location to location at their own discretion.

By gaining Canadian work experience, many foreign nationals will improve their eligibility for Canadian permanent residency. As Canadian work experience is accrued, foreign nationals can monitor their eligibility for the following pathways to permanent residence:
• Express Entry
• Federal Skilled Worker (FSW)
• Federal Skilled Trades (FST)
• Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
• Quebec Immigration