Work Permit in Canada
At IPJ Immigration Solutions, we help you navigate the path to professional success in Canada. With over 20 years of experience, our dedicated, woman-led team offers personalized support to help you obtain a Work Permit in Canada, allowing you to build your career, contribute to the Canadian economy, and create a brighter future for you and your family.
What is Work Permit in Canada
A work permit is an essential document for foreign nationals who want to work in Canada. It allows you to live and work temporarily in the country. In most cases, you need a job offer from a Canadian employer, and the employer may need to complete a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact Canadian workers.
There are two main types of work permits: employer-specific (closed) work permits, which are tied to a specific job, and open work permits, which offer more flexibility and allow you to work for any employer. Some people may also be exempt from the work permit requirement based on certain conditions, such as international agreements or student co-op programs.
Who Needs a Work Permit in Canada?
To work in Canada, foreign nationals typically need a work permit. However, there are specific conditions and exemptions that might apply.
- General Requirement: Foreign workers from outside Canada need a work permit unless they are permanent residents or Canadian citizens.
- Job Offer Requirement: In most cases, a foreign worker must have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. The employer must either apply for an LMIA or meet conditions that exempt them from the LMIA requirement.
- Exemptions: Certain categories of workers are exempt from the work permit requirement, including spouses of skilled workers or international students, certain youth programs, and individuals under international agreements such as NAFTA or CETA.
Types of Work Permits in Canada
Canada offers several work permits, each designed for different situations and types of workers. Here are the main types:
- Employer-Specific Work Permits: This permit ties you to a specific employer, meaning you can only work for the employer named in your application. A job offer and an LMIA are usually required for this permit.
- Open Work Permits: This type allows you to work for any employer in Canada and is typically available to specific groups, such as spouses of skilled workers, post-graduation work permit (PGWP) holders, and students. Open work permits do not require an LMIA or a job offer.
- LMIA-Exempt Work Permits: Some foreign workers do not require an LMIA, including those under international agreements like NAFTA or CETA, or those working for non-profit organizations.
How to Apply for a Work Permit in Canada
The process for applying for a Canadian work permit can vary depending on the type of permit. Here’s a general overview:
- Step 1: Employer Applies for LMIA (if necessary)
- In most cases, your employer must apply for an LMIA to show that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job.
- In most cases, your employer must apply for an LMIA to show that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job.
- Step 2: Submit Work Permit Application
- Once the LMIA is approved, you can apply for the work permit. This can be done online through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) or at a Canadian visa office abroad.
- Once the LMIA is approved, you can apply for the work permit. This can be done online through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) or at a Canadian visa office abroad.
- Step 3: Work Permit Issuance
- After processing, the work permit will either be issued at the point of entry by a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer or sent to you from a Canadian visa office.
Costs and Fees for Canadian Work Permits
1. Application Fees:
- Employer-specific work permits: $155 CAD
- Open work permits: $255 CAD
- Work permit extension: $155 CAD
2. Biometrics:
- $85 CAD per person or $170 CAD per family
- Biometrics are valid for 10 years once provided
3. Medical Examination:
- Typically $200 to $500 per person, depending on the physician and location
- Required for certain countries and occupations
4. Police Clearance:
- Free to $100, depending on your country of residence
- Required if you’ve lived in certain countries for 6 months or more
5. Additional Costs:
- Translation Services: Varies depending on documents
- Courier/Shipping for Documents: $50 to $100
- Passport Photos: $15 to $30
Open Work Permits vs Employer-Specific Work Permits
The main difference between an open work permit and an employer-specific work permit is flexibility. Here’s how they compare:
- Employer-Specific Work Permits:
- Tied to a particular employer and location.
- Requires a job offer and often an LMIA.
- Restricted to the employer named on the permit, meaning you can only work for them in that role.
- Tied to a particular employer and location.
- Open Work Permits:
- Allows you to work for any employer in Canada (some restrictions may apply).
- Ideal for individuals who don’t have a job offer or those in specific categories such as spouses of skilled workers, international students, or those applying for post-graduation work permits.
- More flexible, but only available to specific groups of people.
- Allows you to work for any employer in Canada (some restrictions may apply).
Why Choose IPJ Immigration for Your Work Permit?
Personalized Solutions
Every applicant’s situation is unique. Whether you’re seeking to work temporarily, apply for a specific job, or transition from a visitor visa, we provide tailored solutions to match your needs and ensure your application meets all necessary criteria.
Comprehensive Support
From gathering documents to submitting your application, our team will guide you through each step of the process. We ensure all forms are completed correctly, minimizing the risk of delays or refusals.
Expert Guidance
We provide you with a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria for securing a work permit, such as having a valid job offer, proof of sufficient funds, and meeting health or security requirements. We’ll help you meet the specific requirements for different types of work permits.
Clear Communication
Throughout the application process, we maintain transparency and keep you informed every step of the way. We ensure you know what to expect and how to proceed with confidence.
Proven Success
With our extensive experience and a strong success rate, we are confident in our ability to assist you in obtaining a work permit and advancing your career goals in Canada.
Quick Processing
We don’t stop at submission. Our team offers continuous support throughout the process, from tracking your application status to addressing any concerns, ensuring a smooth path to Work permit in Canada.
Hear from our previous clients
Every application represents someone’s hopes, dreams, and future. Here are just a few of the people we’ve been honored to help.
Meet Our Experienced Team
A women-owned, family-run practice where your case receives personal attention from experienced professionals who genuinely care.
Immigration law is our profession, but helping people navigate life-changing journeys is our passion. We’re a small, dedicated team, which means you’re not just another file number. We remember your story, we follow your progress, and we celebrate your success as if it were our own.
Irena Bartoszewicz Szajna
Senior Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)
Irena Bartoszewicz Szajna
Senior Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)
Paulina Harirbafan
Immigration Lawyer / Notary Public
Paulina Harirbafan
Immigration Lawyer / Notary Public
Justyna Szajna
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)
Justyna Szajna
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)
Frequently Asked Questions
These are some of the concerns clients bring to us. If you’re feeling any of these worries, we can help.
Foreign nationals typically require a work permit to work in Canada. However, some exemptions apply, such as for international students or spouses of skilled workers. Specific programs like the International Experience Canada (IEC) may also allow work without a permit.
Processing times vary depending on factors like the type of work permit and where the application is submitted. Typically, processing can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. You can check the IRCC website for the most current processing times.
If you applied online, you can check your application status through your IRCC account. For paper-based applications, you’ll need to link it to your online account to track the status.
If you hold an employer-specific (closed) work permit, you cannot switch employers without applying for a new work permit. However, if you hold an open work permit, you can work for any employer in Canada, with some exceptions.
Employer-specific work permits generally cost $155 CAD, while open work permits cost $255 CAD. Additional costs for biometrics or medical exams may also apply.
Still have questions? That's what consultations are for. Book a consultation and get clear, honest answers about your specific situation.
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