Canada’s decision to phase out open work permits from 2026 is raising concerns among Nigerian migrants and other foreign nationals.
The change is expected to limit the flexibility that has long allowed temporary workers to move freely between employers.
Under the new policy, most open permits will be replaced by employer-specific work licences tied to sectors, regions, or provincial labour needs.
This marks a significant shift from the current system, which allows many migrants to work for almost any employer without a prior job offer.
Open work permits have been particularly popular with Nigerian international students, spouses of skilled workers, and post-graduation jobseekers.
They allow holders to gain Canadian work experience while switching employers freely, often without a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Immigration experts warned that the change will require migrants to secure confirmed job offers before applying for long-term work authorisation.
Richard Kurland, a Canadian immigration lawyer, said the shift “replaces mobility with obligation; you work where your licence allows, or you stop working.”
The reforms will also give provinces greater influence over which occupations qualify, with priority expected for healthcare, construction, agriculture, skilled trades, and technology roles.
Labour economist Carol Tran noted that the changes reflect political pressure to ensure migration aligns with economic needs.
Families may feel the impact most. Spouses who previously relied on open permits to work while supporting household income may now face restrictions.
Marina Brigham, a Toronto-based immigration consultant, warned that “planning now has to start from the job offer, not after arrival.”
The Canadian government insists the reforms are necessary to protect workers and maintain public confidence in immigration.
Transitional measures remain for those already in the Temporary Resident to Permanent Resident pathway, but beyond 2026, most migrants will fall under the employer-specific permit system.
Experts advised Nigerians to plan ahead, align skills with in-demand sectors, and secure employment before arriving.
