An Open Work Permit (OWP) is not tied to one employer, but the printed location field can cause confusion:
- In principle, an Open Work Permit lets the holder work anywhere in Canada, regardless of the city printed on the permit — this is the core feature that distinguishes it from an employer- or location-specific work permit.
- In practice, a printed city (e.g., a specific town) can confuse employers. Group members noted that some employers outside the printed location may hesitate to hire once they see a mismatched address on the permit, even though the permit itself doesn't legally restrict where you can work.
- If this happens, you can request an update/correction to the permit's listed location through IRCC so the document matches your actual situation and avoids confusion with employers.
If you're in this situation, keep a copy of IRCC's official Open Work Permit information handy to show prospective employers that the location field doesn't restrict where you can be employed.