Vulnerable Worker Permit (Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers) Canada 2025

The Vulnerable Worker Permit—officially called the Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers—is a special, fee-exempt temporary work permit offered by the Canadian government. It is designed to protect temporary foreign workers in Canada who are experiencing abuse, or are at risk of abuse, related to their employer or workplace. This program empowers workers to leave unsafe or exploitative jobs and find new employment without risking their immigration status.

Who Is Eligible?

• You must be physically present in Canada.
• You must hold a valid employer-specific work permit (including LMIA-based permits or Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program permits), or have applied for a renewal while in Canada.
• You must be experiencing abuse, or at risk of abuse, in your current job. Abuse can include physical harm, sexual harassment, psychological mistreatment, threats, financial exploitation (such as withheld wages), intimidation, or any behavior that violates your dignity or legal rights.
• Self-employed workers and those with expired permits or only visitor status are not eligible.

Key Features of the Permit

• Open Work Permit: You can work for almost any employer in Canada, except those found ineligible for compliance or involved in certain restricted industries (e.g., strip clubs, escort agencies).
• No Fee: There is no application fee for this permit. Biometrics are usually not required unless specifically requested by the immigration officer.
• Temporary Protection: The permit is typically valid for enough time to find a new job and, if needed, apply for another work permit.
• Family Members: If you are approved, in many cases, eligible family members in Canada can also apply for an open work permit.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare Evidence:
   • Write a detailed letter describing the abuse (required).
   • Collect as much supporting evidence as possible, such as statements from support organizations, doctors, or witnesses; official complaints/reports (police, employment standards, etc.); text messages, emails, pay stubs, bank statements, photos, and sworn affidavits.
2. Apply Online:
   • Sign in to your IRCC account, choose “Apply to come to Canada,” and select “Visitor visa, study and/or work permit.”
   • Answer questions as follows:
     • What would you like to do in Canada? – Choose “Work”
     • Do you have a written job offer? – “No”
     • Are you being abused or at risk of being abused? – “Yes”
   • Combine all evidence into one file and upload it in the “Client Information” section of your application.
3. Processing:
   • IRCC aims to contact you within 5 business days after receiving your application.
   • You may be asked to attend an interview or submit additional evidence.
4. Decision & Next Steps:
   • If approved, you will receive an open work permit allowing you to leave your abusive workplace immediately and work anywhere in Canada.
   • If refused, IRCC will explain the reasons, and you may reapply if you can address the issues.

Important Notes

• You must apply from inside Canada; applications at the border or from abroad are not permitted.
• Working without status does not automatically disqualify you; the government recognizes that unauthorized work may be part of an abuse claim, and this will not necessarily count against your application.
• You are encouraged to seek help from a worker support organization, legal aid, or union if you need assistance.
• This permit does not provide a direct pathway to permanent residency, but you may qualify for PR through other immigration programs after obtaining the open work permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I change employers immediately? Yes, once approved, you can work for almost any employer in Canada without restrictions.
• How long is the permit valid? The permit is temporary and typically valid for several months, enough to find new employment and apply for a regular or employer-specific work permit if needed.
• Can I include my family? Yes, eligible family members in Canada can apply for an open work permit if you receive yours as a vulnerable worker.
• Is there a fee to apply? No, the application is fee-exempt.
• Where can I get help? You can contact legal clinics, immigrant-serving organizations, or call 1-888-242-2100 for support. In emergencies, call 9-1-1.

Why This Program Exists

• To empower foreign workers to leave unsafe or abusive jobs without risking their ability to work and live in Canada.
• To help workers regain control, stability, and access their legal rights to a safe and healthy workplace.