When considering moving abroad for work with a partner or family in 2025, understanding the differences between work authorization options in Canada and the United States is crucial. Two key options are Canada’s Open Work Permit (OWP) and the U.S. Employment Authorization Document (EAD), each offering different levels of flexibility and benefits.
Canada’s Open Work Permit allows individuals to work for any employer without being tied to a specific job. It is available to spouses or common-law partners of international students or skilled foreign workers, bridging open work permit holders awaiting permanent residency, and certain refugees and asylum seekers. No job offer is required, and holders can change employers freely. This permit also provides an easier transition to permanent residency through programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.
The U.S. does not have a direct equivalent to Canada’s Open Work Permit, but some visa holders can apply for an Employment Authorization Document, which allows work for any employer. Several visa categories qualify for an EAD.
The H-4 EAD is available to spouses of H-1B visa holders, but only if the H-1B holder has an approved I-140 petition for permanent residency. It allows work for any employer, self-employment, or freelancing but requires a separate application, which may take time to process. The L-2 spouse work authorization applies to spouses of L-1 visa holders and, under recent policy updates, no longer requires a separate EAD application. However, work eligibility remains tied to the L-1 visa holder’s status. The J-2 EAD is for spouses of J-1 exchange visitors, allowing them to apply for work authorization, though the income must not be a financial necessity for the J-1 program. Additionally, F-1 visa holders can work under Optional Practical Training (OPT) or STEM OPT extensions, but this is limited to jobs related to their field of study and has a fixed duration of 12 to 36 months.
Comparing the two options, Canada’s Open Work Permit offers greater flexibility, faster processing times, and a more direct pathway to permanent residency. The U.S. EAD can be beneficial for those already holding visas such as H-1B, L-1, or J-1, but eligibility depends on visa type and additional application requirements. Those seeking work authorization with fewer restrictions may find Canada’s system more accommodating, while those with existing ties to the U.S. may still benefit from the EAD option.
