Core eligibility
- In Canada.
- Eligible employer-specific or SAWP permit.
- Abuse or risk of abuse related to employment.
- Online application with available supporting evidence.
Vulnerable Worker Open Work Permit
Vulnerable Worker Open Work Permit Canada
Leave an unsafe job. Protect your status.
This temporary open work permit may help workers in Canada who are experiencing abuse, or are at risk of abuse, related to their job. We provide private, respectful guidance so you understand your options. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or your local police.
Overview
Open work permit for vulnerable workers
This temporary open work permit may help certain workers in Canada leave an abusive employment situation or a situation where there is a risk of abuse. It provides time to find another employer and pursue longer-term work authorization.
The process is confidential and each file is assessed on its own evidence. The permit is a temporary solution, has an expiry date and cannot be renewed.
Who may apply
The applicant must generally be in Canada and hold a valid employer-specific work permit, or a work permit issued under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, and experience abuse or risk of abuse in relation to the job.
The application is made online and cannot be filed at a port of entry. There are no application fees for this work permit.
What abuse can include
Abuse is not limited to physical violence. It may include sexual, psychological, financial or verbal abuse, coercion, threats, unsafe conditions or other workplace exploitation.
Evidence is assessed in context. A worker may not have every type of record, so a clear personal statement and the available supporting information are important.
After approval
The open permit generally allows work for most employers, subject to any printed restrictions. IRCC may inspect the former employer but will not contact the employer for another reason as part of this process.
Family members who came to Canada with the worker may also be eligible for open work permits. They submit their own applications, which may be filed together.
Safety and other support
Immigration status is only one part of a safety plan. Workers may also wish to contact emergency services, provincial employment standards, a worker-support organization, health professionals or legal services as appropriate.
If an employer monitors devices, use a safe device and protect browsing and communication records.
Key information
Eligibility and application requirements
Eligibility, supporting evidence and practical considerations for this application.
Possible forms of abuse
- Physical or sexual abuse.
- Psychological or verbal abuse.
- Financial abuse.
- Threats, coercion or workplace exploitation.
Evidence may include
- Personal statement.
- Messages, emails or photographs.
- Medical or police records.
- Statements from support organizations or witnesses.
Important permit limits
- Temporary open work authorization.
- No application fee.
- Cannot be renewed.
- A new work permit is needed before it expires.
Checklist
Vulnerable worker application documents
Submit truthful information and the evidence reasonably available to you.
- Passport and current work permit.
- Application to change conditions or remain as a worker.
- Detailed personal statement.
- Messages, emails, photographs or recordings where lawful and available.
- Medical, police or workplace records, where available.
- Statement from a support organization or professional.
- Witness statements, where available.
- Family-member applications and relationship documents, if applicable.
- Any additional evidence requested by IRCC.
Step by step
How the process works
- 1
Prioritize safety
Use safe communications and seek immediate help if needed.
- 2
Confirm eligibility
Review location, permit type and workplace circumstances.
- 3
Prepare the statement
Explain the abuse or risk clearly and chronologically.
- 4
Collect available evidence
Include records that support the circumstances.
- 5
Apply online
Submit the no-fee application; it cannot be filed at the border.
- 6
Plan the next permit
Use the temporary period to find an employer and new authorization.
Why us
What you get working with Simmi Immigration
A
Confidential review
Discuss the situation respectfully and privately.
B
Evidence organization
Present the available records without inventing gaps.
C
Status planning
Coordinate immediate protection with the next permit.
D
Family review
Assess separate options for accompanying family members.
Answers
Frequently asked questions
Certain workers in Canada with an eligible employer-specific or SAWP permit who are experiencing abuse or are at risk of abuse related to their job.
No. IRCC states that there are no fees for this work permit.
No. The application must be made online.
Not necessarily. Submit the evidence available to you, which can include a detailed statement and records from professionals, witnesses or communications.
The permit is designed to help eligible workers leave an abusive situation. Get case-specific advice about current authorization and safety before taking employment elsewhere.
No. It is temporary and cannot be renewed, so another work-permit option should be prepared before expiry.
Family members who came with you may be eligible for their own open work permits and must submit separate applications.
No. Any permanent residence option requires a separate assessment.
Next step
Need to leave an unsafe work situation?
Book a private consultation and we will review your situation and explain the possible next steps. If you are in immediate danger, call 9-1-1 or your local police first.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Program rules change and individual circumstances matter. Confirm current IRCC requirements before applying.
Talk to a regulated consultant
We confirm eligibility, flag the risks, and build the document plan before anything is filed.
Book consultationFree assessment