If you are planning to work in Canada and need to apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP), you may need to provide a Letter of Intent to the Canadian government as part of your application. This letter is your opportunity to explain your reasons for coming to Canada and your plans for working while you are here. To help you get started, we have compiled some sample letters of intent that you can use as a guide when writing your own.
Example 1: Seeking Employment in Canada
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in obtaining an Open Work Permit (OWP) for Canada. I have been researching opportunities in Canada and believe that my skills and experience would be a great fit for the Canadian job market. My goal is to secure employment in Canada and contribute to the Canadian economy.
I have attached my resume and copies of my diplomas and certificates for your review. I am confident that I would be a valuable asset to any Canadian employer and am eager to begin my search for employment in Canada.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 2: Visiting Family in Canada
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my intention to visit Canada to spend time with my family. My parents and siblings are all Canadian citizens, and I have not seen them in several years due to distance and financial constraints. I would like to take this opportunity to reunite with my family and experience Canadian culture firsthand.
I plan to support myself financially while in Canada by obtaining an Open Work Permit (OWP). I have experience in the hospitality industry and believe that I could find a job in a restaurant or hotel during my stay. I am confident that I can contribute to the Canadian economy while also spending quality time with my family.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 3: Cultural Exchange Program
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in participating in a cultural exchange program in Canada. I am passionate about learning about different cultures and believe that the Canadian culture is rich and diverse. I plan to participate in a cultural exchange program that will allow me to learn about Canadian culture while sharing my own culture with Canadians.
I would like to obtain an Open Work Permit (OWP) to support myself financially during my stay in Canada. I have experience teaching English as a Second Language (ESL) and believe that I could find a job in a language school or a community center that offers ESL classes. I am confident that I can contribute to the Canadian economy while also participating in a meaningful cultural exchange program.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to participate in a cultural exchange program in Canada.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 4: Working Holiday Visa
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in obtaining a Working Holiday Visa (WHV) for Canada. I am a recent graduate and would like to take this opportunity to gain work experience and travel to Canada. I am excited about the prospect of exploring Canada’s natural beauty and diverse culture.
I plan to obtain an Open Work Permit (OWP) to support myself financially during my stay in Canada. I am willing to work in any industry and am confident that I can contribute to the Canadian economy while also gaining valuable work experience. I am eager to begin my adventure in Canada and make the most of this opportunity.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 5: Internship Program
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my interest in participating in an internship program in Canada. I am a recent graduate of [Your Field] and would like to gain practical experience in my field of study. I believe that Canada offers excellent opportunities for professional development, and I am excited about the prospect of working in Canada.
I plan to obtain an Open Work Permit (OWP) to support myself financially during my internship. I have researched several companies in Canada that offer internships in my field of study and am confident that I can contribute to the Canadian economy while gaining valuable work experience. I am eager to begin my internship in Canada and am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Example 6: Partnership Meeting
Dear Sir/Madam,
I am writing to express my intention to attend a partnership meeting in Canada. I am a [Your Profession] and would like to meet with my Canadian colleagues to discuss potential partnership opportunities. I believe that Canada offers excellent opportunities for business development, and I am excited about the prospect of expanding my professional network in Canada.
I plan to obtain an Open Work Permit (OWP) to support myself financially during my stay in Canada. I have already made arrangements to meet with several Canadian colleagues during my visit and am confident that I can contribute to the Canadian economy while exploring potential partnership opportunities. I am eager to attend this meeting in Canada and am grateful for the opportunity to strengthen my professional connections.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to hearing from you soon.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Tips for Writing a Letter of Intent for OWP Canada
If you are writing a Letter of Intent for an Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be clear and concise in your writing. Your letter should be no more than one page long.
- Explain your reasons for coming to Canada and your plans for working while you are here.
- Highlight your skills, experience, and qualifications that make you a good candidate for working in Canada.
- Provide any additional information that you believe may be relevant to your application.
- Proofread your letter carefully to ensure that it is free of errors and typos.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada without a job offer?
Yes, you can apply for an Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada without a job offer. However, you will need to provide a Letter of Intent that explains your reasons for coming to Canada and your plans for working while you are here.
How long does it take to process an Open Work Permit (OWP) application in Canada?
The processing time for an Open Work Permit (OWP) application in Canada can vary depending on several factors, such as your country of origin and the type of work permit you are applying for. In general, the processing time can range from a few weeks to several months.
Can I extend my Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada?
Yes, you may be able to extend your Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada if you meet certain eligibility requirements. You will need to apply for an extension before your current work permit expires.
Do I need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to get an Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada?
No, you do not need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to get an Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada if you are exempt from the LMIA requirement. Some exemptions include spouses or common-law partners of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, certain international students, and participants in International Experience Canada (IEC) programs.
Can I work for any employer in Canada with an Open Work Permit (OWP)?
Generally, yes, you can work for any employer in Canada with an Open Work Permit (OWP) unless your work permit specifies otherwise. However, there may be some restrictions depending on the type of work permit you have and the industry in which you are working.
Can I study in Canada with an Open Work Permit (OWP)?
Yes, you may be able to study in Canada with an Open Work Permit (OWP) if your permit specifies that you are allowed to study. However, you will need to meet the eligibility requirements for the study program you wish to enroll in.
Conclusion
A Letter of Intent is an important part of your application for an Open Work Permit (OWP) in Canada. By following the tips and examples provided in this article, you can create a compelling letter that explains your reasons for coming to Canada and your plans for working while you are here. Remember to be clear and concise in your writing, highlight your skills and experience, and proofread your letter carefully before submitting it.