You need a work permit

If you’re a protected person in Canada, you need a work permit to work in Canada.

You and your family members can apply for an open work permit(opens in a new tab)  if

• you’re in Canada, and
• you meet the general eligibility requirements(opens in a new tab)  for a work permit

You’re eligible even if you haven’t applied for permanent residence yet.

Fee exemption

You don’t need to pay any fees for this work permit.

When you apply

When you fill out your work permit application form

• Select “Open Work Permit” as the type of work permit in the “Details of intended work in Canada” section.
• Leave the employer section of the application blank.
• If you don’t have a passport, you may add a series of 0 for the passport number
  • Provide a letter of explanation as to why you do not have a passport

You can apply online (recommended) or on paper.

How to apply for a work permit