Most people assume that once a Vulnerable Open Work Permit (VOWP) is issued, their LMIA-based work permit is automatically cancelled.
But is that really what the law says?
We reviewed the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations and IRCC's own policy—and the answer is more nuanced than many realize.
Even more interesting, IRCC says a VOWP is "non-renewable," yet its own Program Delivery Instructions discuss subsequent VOWP applications. So which is it?
In this article, we break down:
- Whether a VOWP cancels your employer-specific work permit
- Whether a VOWP can be extended or if you can apply for another one
- The legal framework behind these questions
- Why these distinctions matter for vulnerable foreign workers
If you or someone you know is working in Canada under an LMIA-based work permit and is experiencing abuse or exploitation, this is a must-read.
