Each year, Canada issues about half a million work permits to temporary foreign workers.
There are two general pathways for obtaining a Canadian work permit: a closed (restricted) work permit and an open work permit. Conditions may include the type of work you can engage in, where and for whom you can work, and how long you can work in Canada. An open work permit allows a foreign national to work for any employer in Canada and the freedom to move from location to location at their own discretion.
Another significant benefit for those interested in immigrating to Canada permanently is that by gaining Canadian work experience, a foreign national may increase their eligibility for a number of Canadian permanent residency programs.