CIMM – Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers – November 07, 2023

Key Facts and Figures

Volumes: Since the launch of the program in June 2019 up to September 2023, the Department has issued over 4,000 open work permits for vulnerable workers (OWP-Vs).
So far in 2023 (up to September), IRCC has issued 1,320 OWP-Vs (compared to 1,075 permits issued in 2022).

Foreign workers have the same rights to workplace protections under federal, provincial and territorial employment standards as Canadians and permanent residents.
The Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers (OWP-V) provides foreign workers on valid employer-specific work permits access to an open work permit if they are experiencing, or are at risk of experiencing, abuse in their job. This allows foreign workers to quickly leave the abusive situation and start working for any eligible employer in Canada.

All workers in Canada deserve safe, healthy and dignified working conditions. That is why the Government introduced the OWP-V. This permit is facilitative and expedient. It has a lower burden of proof, acknowledging abuse is difficult to prove. The permit is also available to family members of the foreign worker in Canada.
After a worker is approved for an OWP-V, an inspection is conducted to verify the employer’s compliance with program conditions.
The OWP-V mitigates some of the barriers that migrant workers have previously faced in reporting abuse, such as loss of their work authorization, fear of deportation, and employer retribution.
As part of its ongoing commitment to protect temporary foreign workers, the Government of Canada has introduced the Migrant Worker Support Program that establishes coordinated approaches among community organizations to provide resources and services to migrant workers. These organizations play an essential role in increasing workers’ awareness of the OWP-V, and supporting them to apply when needed.

2024-03-06