Thinking about relocating overseas for a job in 2025 with your partner or family? You’re probably asking yourself which country—Canada or the United States—makes it easier to work without jumping through too many hoops. In this guide, we break down the key differences between Canada’s Open Work Permit (OWP) and the U.S. Employment Authorization Document (EAD), focusing on how each supports foreign workers and their spouses in finding employment.
CANADA FLEXIBLE WORK PERMIT:
- Partners or spouses of skilled foreign workers or international students can also benefit.
- Those with a Bridging Open Work Permit, who are in the process of getting their permanent residency, can also take advantage of this option.
- Refugees, asylum seekers, and their spouses or partners may also be eligible.
TOP ADVANTAGES OF CANADA’S OPEN WORK PERMIT
- You can apply without having a job lined up.
- You’re not locked into one employer or job type—you can work wherever and in whatever role you prefer.
- Move from one job to another without the hassle of reapplying for a new permit.
- Simplifies your move to permanent status through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.
This permit is ideal for individuals and couples who want the freedom to switch jobs, explore various industries, or enter the Canadian job market with fewer obstacles.
U.S. EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION DOCUMENT: A SIMILAR OPTION
Although the U.S. doesn’t have an exact match for Canada’s OWP, certain visa holders can apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). This allows them to work for any U.S. employer, much like Canada’s OWP. Here are the main groups eligible for an EAD:
H-4 EAD
- Spouses of H-1B visa holders may qualify for an EAD, but only if the H-1B worker is in the process of applying for a green card.
- Benefits: Enjoy the freedom to work with any employer, launch your own business, or take on freelance projects without restrictions.
- Drawbacks: You’ll need to submit a separate application, which can lead to waiting times and possible processing delays.
L-2 SPOUSE
- Spouses of L-1 visa holders are granted automatic work authorization, meaning they can begin working in the U.S. without needing to apply for a separate permit.
- Often, there’s no need to file a separate EAD application—work authorization is granted automatically in many situations.
- Your ability to stay and work in the U.S. is directly tied to your spouse’s L-1 visa status—if theirs changes, so does yours.
J-2 EAD
- Spouses of J-1 Exchange Visitors are eligible to apply for work authorization as long as the primary J-1 visa holder maintains their active status in the program.
- Perks: You’re free to work for any employer across the U.S., with no job-specific restrictions.
- Downside: You’ll need to apply for an EAD, and your income can’t be considered necessary to support the J-1 visa holder’s program participation.
F-1 OPT/STEM OPT
- For international students in the U.S., this provides the opportunity to gain work experience in their field of study after graduation, offering more career flexibility.
- Upside: Gives you the freedom to explore various job opportunities without being tied to a single employer.
- Drawback: The permit is only valid for a limited time (12-36 months) and must be directly related to your field of study.
The Verdict: Who Takes 2025?
If you’re looking for a faster, more flexible way to live and work in Canada — with a smoother path to permanent residency — the Open Work Permit is a top choice. It’s perfect for individuals and spouses who want to skip the hassle of sponsorship rules.
If you or your spouse have an H-1B, L-1, or J-1 visa, you may also qualify for a U.S. Work Permit (EAD), which can help you explore career opportunities — as long as you meet the requirements.