Vulnerable open work permit - Can i work for different employer while it is in process?

[amak07]

Posting on behalf of a friend who applied for Vulnerable Open Work Permit on based of Financial abuse - Withholding paycheque, randomly cancelling shifts minutes before etc.

She just got her IMM5988 with this text.

This confirms that your application has been received by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on _____________________ . July 03, 2026 July 04, 2027 UXXXXXXX Please attach this letter to your present work permit Number as proof that you are authorized to continue working with the same conditions (ie: employer and occupation) until or until a decision is made on your application.

You must continue to respect all employer, occupation and location conditions and restrictions listed on your present work permit until a decision is made on your application.

Is it possible to request an exemption letter to work for a different employer while the application is in process? She hasn't been paid for 2 months and hasn't been back to work for 2 weeks because of lack of hours as per employer.

 

[Naturgrl]

Posting on behalf of a friend who applied for Vulnerable Open Work Permit on based of Financial abuse - Withholding paycheque, randomly cancelling shifts minutes before etc.

She just got her IMM5988 with this text.



Is it possible to request an exemption letter to work for a different employer while the application is in process? She hasn't been paid for 2 months and hasn't been back to work for 2 weeks because of lack of hours as per employer.

No. Only once she has approved VOWP is when she can change employers. There is no such exemption. She would have also reported employer to EDSC about not meeting LMIA requirements and filed with the provincial labour board to get back pay.