Worker protection

Open Work Permit
for Vulnerable Workers

If you are a temporary foreign worker being abused, threatened, or exploited by your employer, you can apply for a special open work permit that lets you leave immediately and work for any employer in Canada — without needing your employer's cooperation.

Free — no application fee

5 business days to first contact

Work for any employer

Am I eligible?

You may qualify if you are currently in Canada on a work permit and are in any of these situations:

You are being abused or at risk of abuse by your employer (physical, sexual, psychological, financial)
Your employer threatened to deport you, have you arrested, or harm your family if you leave
Your employer confiscated your passport or immigration documents
Your employer is not paying you or is paying far below what your work permit says
You were charged recruitment fees for your Canadian job (illegal under IRPA)
Your living conditions are unsafe or controlled by your employer
You are afraid to leave your job because of your immigration status

Note: You do not need to prove abuse happened — only that you have a reasonable belief you are at risk. IRCC case officers are trained to handle these applications sensitively.

What the OWP-VW gets you

Work for any employer

No employer-specific restrictions — you choose where to work.

Leave immediately

You can leave your current employer before your permit is approved.

Stay in Canada legally

Your status is maintained while the application is processed.

No employer cooperation needed

Your current employer cannot block or interfere with your application.

How to apply — step by step

1
Make sure you are safe first
If you are in immediate danger, call 911. If you need help escaping a controlled situation, contact the Victim Services hotline in your province or a shelter — they can help you leave safely.
2
Gather any evidence you have
Messages, photos, pay stubs, your work permit, any documents your employer gave you. Evidence helps but is not required — IRCC understands it may be difficult to collect.
3
Apply online through IRCC
Use the IRCC Applicant Portal. Select "Apply to change the conditions on your permit" → "Open work permit for vulnerable workers (no fee)." Fill in your personal details and describe your situation briefly.
4
Get free legal help if you need it
Legal Aid organizations can help you complete the application. Many have experience with TFW cases. Your immigration status does not prevent you from accessing legal aid.
5
Wait for first contact (typically 5 business days)
An IRCC officer will reach out within 5 business days. They will not contact your employer. In many cases, interim authorization to work is granted before the final decision.