Are you confused about the difference between co-op work permit and open work permit? Don’t worry I am here for you. In this guide, I will clear up all your confusion.
In this guide, you will learn about the eligibility, application process, duration time & conditions of co-op work permit & open work permit. Being an immigration company we have good knowledge about it.
Once you finish reading, you’ll feel confident and fully informed.
What is a Co-op Work Permit?
A Co-op Work Permit in Canada allows international students to gain practical work experience as part of their study program. Many colleges and universities in Canada include work placements, internships, or “co-op” programs as part of their courses.
To take part in these kinds of internships students need a co-op work permit.
- Co-op Work Permit Detailed information
- How to apply for Co-op Work Permit
- Document Required for Co-op Work Permit
Key Differences Between Co-op Work Permit and Open Work Permit
Eligibility
- A Co-op Work Permit in Canada allows international students to gain practical work experience as part of their study program. Many colleges and universities in Canada include work placements and internships as part of their courses.
If students want to complete their degree they have to do that internship. To take part in these kinds of internships students need a co-op work permit. This permit allows the student to do practical work. - An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada and at any location. An open work permit provides freedom to the holder to work for another employer or shift to another location whenever he wants.
Work Restrictions
Restrictions on co-op work permit
- The work must be an essential part of your study program. It cannot be a job that you do just for extra income.
- You can only work during the co-op term as specified by your educational program.
- You must have a valid Co-op Work Permit to work in Canada. Working without this permit can result in serious consequences, including deportation.
- The job must be directly related to your course or program of study.
Restrictions on open work permit
- The permit is temporary, and if your status changes (like your study or work permit expires), your open work permit may also end.
- You need a valid open work permit to work. Working without it is against the law.
- The permit is given for a set time, and you need to renew it if you want to continue working after it expires.
Duration and Validity
co-op work permit
The duration of your Co-op Work Permit depends on the length of your study program. It is usually valid for the duration of the co-op term within your course.
If your co-op term gets extended or you need more time to complete your program, you may need to apply for a permit extension.
open work permit
The duration of your Open Work Permit depends on your specific situation (e.g. if you’re the spouse of a student or worker, or a temporary resident). It’s usually valid for the same length as your status in Canada.
If your permit expires and you’re still eligible, you can apply to renew it, but you must do so before it expires.
Which Permit is Right for You?
Co-op Work Permit: If you are an international student enrolled in a study program in Canada that requires work experience as part of the course, then the Co-op Work Permit is the right choice for you. It allows you to work during your co-op or internship term as part of your studies.
Open Work Permit: If you want to work in Canada without being tied to a specific employer or job, and you meet the eligibility requirements (e.g., spouse of a student or worker, post-graduation), then the Open Work Permit is the right choice.
Ideal Scenarios for Co-op Work Permit
Work Related to Studies: The work you do must be directly related to your field of study and required for completing your program.
Limited Work Period: It’s best for students who need to work only during certain periods of their studies (e.g., summer break or a specific term in the program).
Ideal Scenarios for Open Work Permit
After Graduation: If you’ve completed a study program in Canada and want to stay and work, an Open Work Permit can be ideal after your study permit expires (e.g., Post-Graduation Work Permit).
No Job Offer Needed: You can work for any employer, so if you don’t have a specific job offer yet, the Open Work Permit gives you more flexibility.
Factors to Consider
Your Current Status
If you’re a student, the Co-op Work Permit is likely the best choice.
If you’re the spouse of a student or worker, or you want to stay and work after graduation, the Open Work Permit is more suitable.
Duration of Work:
A Co-op Work Permit is only valid for as long as your co-op term lasts (linked to your course duration).
An Open Work Permit is temporary, but it can last longer and is flexible depending on your situation (like being the spouse of a student or worker).
Flexibility:
The Co-op Work Permit limits you to specific work related to your studies.
The Open Work Permit offers more freedom since you can work for any employer in Canada.
Job Requirements:
The Co-op Work Permit requires that the job is part of your educational program.
The Open Work Permit doesn’t require you to be in any particular job or field.
