Canadian Work Permits
Build Your Career in Canada
Navigate Canada’s work permit options with expert guidance. From LMIA-based permits to open work authorization, we help you find the right pathway to work in Canada.
20+ Years Experience
Licensed by Law Society & CICC
Women-Led Immigration Practice
WORK IN CANADA — YOUR PATHWAY TO OPPORTUNITY
Canada offers diverse work permit options for foreign nationals looking to gain Canadian work experience, advance their careers, or contribute their skills to the Canadian economy. Each year, Canada welcomes hundreds of thousands of temporary foreign workers who fill critical roles across industries — from technology and healthcare to skilled trades and agriculture.
A Canadian work permit allows you to work legally in Canada for a specific employer, occupation, or location, or in some cases, for any employer anywhere in Canada (open work permits). Beyond immediate employment opportunities, Canadian work experience can significantly strengthen your application for permanent residence through programs like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs.
Whether you:
- Have a job offer from a Canadian employer
- Are transferring within your company to a Canadian branch
- Qualify under international trade agreements
- Are a recent graduate of a Canadian institution
- Are the spouse/partner of someone studying or working in Canada
…there’s likely a work permit pathway for you.
At IPJ Immigration, we understand that navigating Canada’s work permit landscape can be complex. Different work permits have different requirements, processing times, and pathways. Some require your employer to complete labour market testing (LMIA), while others are exempt. Some restrict you to a specific employer, while others allow you to work for anyone.
We help you identify which work permit option best fits your situation, guide you through the application process, and ensure your application is complete, accurate, and positioned for success.
UNDERSTANDING CANADA'S WORK PERMIT CATEGORIES
Canada’s work permit system is divided into several main categories. Understanding these categories is the first step in determining your pathway to working in Canada.
The Two Main Categories
- Employer-Specific Work Permits (Closed Work Permits)
These permits authorize you to work for a specific employer, in a specific location, for a specific job. Most Canadian work permits are employer-specific. - Open Work Permits
These permits allow you to work for any employer in Canada (with some exceptions). Open work permits are available only in specific circumstances.
LMIA vs. LMIA-Exempt
Another critical distinction is whether your work permit requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
LMIA-Based Work Permits (Temporary Foreign Worker Program)
The Canadian employer must obtain a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before you can apply for your work permit. The LMIA confirms that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact Canadian workers.
LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (International Mobility Program)
Certain work permits don’t require an LMIA based on international trade agreements, significant benefit to Canada, or other exemption categories.
Understanding which category your situation falls into is essential for planning your work permit application.
LMIA-BASED WORK PERMITS
LMIA-based work permits are part of Canada’s Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). These permits require the Canadian employer to first obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that confirms:
- There is a need for a foreign worker to fill the position
- No Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job
- Hiring a foreign worker will have a neutral or positive effect on the Canadian labour market
Step 1: Employer advertises the position (typically 4 weeks minimum) in multiple locations including Job Bank.
Step 2: Employer submits LMIA application to ESDC with:
- Job advertisement details
- Recruitment efforts documentation
- Offer of employment details
- Transition plan (in some cases)
- Application fee ($1,000 per position)
Step 3: ESDC reviews application and assesses labour market impact.
Step 4: ESDC issues decision:
- Positive LMIA: Employer receives confirmation letter with LMIA number
- Negative LMIA: Application denied, no work permit possible for that position
Step 5: Foreign worker can apply for work permit using positive LMIA.
LMIA Processing Times:
Standard processing: 8-12 weeks (varies)
Global Talent Stream (high-skilled positions): 10 business days
Foreign workers whose employment will provide significant social, cultural, or economic benefits to Canada may qualify for LMIA-exempt work permits.
Examples include:
- Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals
- Researchers and guest speakers
- Religious and charitable workers
- Emergency service workers
- Film and television productions
- International student exchanges
The employer or worker must demonstrate how the employment creates significant benefit beyond just filling a labour shortage.
Once your employer has a positive LMIA, you can apply for your work permit.
What You Need:
- Positive LMIA confirmation letter from employer
- Job offer letter from employer
- Proof you meet job requirements (education, experience, qualifications)
- Valid passport
- Proof of funds to support yourself and family in Canada
- Medical examination (if required)
- Police certificate (if required)
Processing Time:
Varies by country of residence (typically 2-12 weeks).
Work Permit Validity:
Typically issued for the duration specified in the LMIA (can range from several months to 2-3 years depending on occupation and LMIA type).
If your job is in Quebec, your employer must also obtain a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) from the Quebec government before you apply for your work permit.
For Workers (Applicants):
- Professional Verified: $1,150
- Full Representation: Starting from $2,500
We guide you through gathering required documents, completing application forms, and ensuring your work permit application is accurate and complete.
For Employers:
We also assist Canadian employers with the LMIA application process.
LMIA-EXEMPT WORK PERMITS
The International Mobility Program
Many work permit categories don’t require an LMIA. These LMIA-exempt work permits fall under Canada’s International Mobility Program (IMP).
Why LMIA Exemptions Exist:
LMIA exemptions support Canada’s economic, cultural, and social goals by facilitating the entry of foreign workers who provide significant benefits to Canada or who are covered by international trade agreements.
Key LMIA-Exempt Categories:
CUSMA/USMCA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement)
Professionals, traders, and investors from the United States and Mexico can work in Canada under CUSMA without an LMIA.
Eligible occupations include:
- Professionals (engineers, accountants, scientists, etc.)
- Traders carrying on substantial trade between their country and Canada
- Investors developing or directing enterprises they've invested substantial capital in
Other Trade Agreements:
- CETA (Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement)
- Canada-Chile FTA
- Canada-Peru FTA
- Canada-Colombia FTA
- Canada-Korea FTA
- And others
Each agreement has specific provisions for business visitors, professionals, intra-company transferees, or service providers.
Foreign workers being transferred to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, affiliate, or parent company of their current employer may be eligible for LMIA-exempt work permits.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Currently employed by the foreign company
- Transferring to a qualifying Canadian affiliate
- Position in Canada must be as executive, senior manager, or specialized knowledge worker
- Must have worked for the foreign company for at least 1 year in the past 3 years
ICT work permits allow:
- Initial work permits typically valid for 1 year (executives/managers up to 3 years with extensions)
- No LMIA required
- Streamlined processing
This is commonly used by multinational corporations transferring key employees to Canadian operations.
Foreign workers whose employment will provide significant social, cultural, or economic benefits to Canada may qualify for LMIA-exempt work permits.
Examples include:
- Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals
- Researchers and guest speakers
- Religious and charitable workers
- Emergency service workers
- Film and television productions
- International student exchanges
The employer or worker must demonstrate how the employment creates significant benefit beyond just filling a labour shortage.
If you've received a provincial nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), you may be eligible for an LMIA-exempt work permit while your permanent residence application is being processed.
This allows nominated candidates to begin working in Canada sooner and gain additional Canadian work experience that strengthens their PR application.
The International Experience Canada program offers LMIA-exempt work permits for young people (typically ages 18-35) from countries with reciprocal youth mobility agreements with Canada.
Three IEC Categories:
Working Holiday:
Open work permit allowing you to travel and work anywhere in Canada for any employer.
Young Professionals:
Employer-specific work permit for professional positions related to your field of study.
International Co-op (Internship):
Employer-specific work permit for co-op/internship placements required for your degree.
Eligibility:
Depends on your country of citizenship. Each country has specific quotas, fees, and requirements.
The International Experience Canada program offers LMIA-exempt work permits for young people (typically ages 18-35) from countries with reciprocal youth mobility agreements with Canada.
Three IEC Categories:
Working Holiday:
Open work permit allowing you to travel and work anywhere in Canada for any employer.
Young Professionals:
Employer-specific work permit for professional positions related to your field of study.
International Co-op (Internship):
Employer-specific work permit for co-op/internship placements required for your degree.
Eligibility:
Depends on your country of citizenship. Each country has specific quotas, fees, and requirements.
Our LMIA-Exempt Work Permit Services
LMIA-Exempt Work Permits:
- Professional Verified: $1,600
- Full Representation: Starting from $3,500
International Experience Canada:
- Professional Verified: $1,000
- Full Representation: Starting from $2,200
We help you determine if you qualify for LMIA exemptions, ensure your application meets all requirements, and strengthen your case for LMIA-exempt status.
OPEN WORK PERMITS
Open work permits allow you to work for any employer anywhere in Canada without needing a specific job offer. These permits are available only in specific situations.
The PGWP is an open work permit for recent graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions.
Eligibility:
- Completed program at eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Program was at least 8 months long
- Maintained full-time student status
- Apply within 180 days of program completion
PGWP Length:
- Programs 8 months to less than 2 years: PGWP equal to program length
- Programs 2 years or longer: PGWP up to 3 years
Why PGWP Matters:
Canadian work experience gained through a PGWP significantly strengthens your eligibility for permanent residence through Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class) or Provincial Nominee Programs.
PGWP can only be obtained once in a lifetime — proper application is critical.
If your spouse or common-law partner is studying or working in Canada, you may be eligible for an open work permit.
Eligibility (spouse/partner of international student):
- Student is enrolled in:
- Public post-secondary program, OR
- Master's or doctoral program, OR
- Professional program (medical, law, etc.)
- Proof of relationship required
Eligibility (spouse/partner of skilled worker):
- Worker holds valid work permit for a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3)
- Proof of relationship required
Benefits:
You can work full-time for any employer anywhere in Canada while your spouse/partner studies or works.
If you've applied for permanent residence through Express Entry or certain other programs and your work permit is expiring, you may be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit while waiting for your PR decision.
Eligibility:
- Currently in Canada with valid work permit
- Applied for permanent residence (Express Entry or certain other programs)
- Passed completeness check (received Acknowledgment of Receipt)
- Work permit expiring within 4 months
Benefits:
Allows you to continue working in Canada while your PR application is processed, avoiding gaps in work authorization.
Vulnerable Workers:
Workers experiencing or at risk of abuse in the workplace may be eligible for an open work permit to leave their abusive employer.
Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds:
In exceptional circumstances, open work permits may be issued on humanitarian grounds.
Dependent Family Members of Certain Workers:
Family members of some work permit holders may qualify for open work permits.
This allows nominated candidates to begin working in Canada sooner and gain additional Canadian work experience that strengthens their PR application.
Our Open Work Permit Services
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
- Professional Verified: $550
- Full Representation: Starting from $1,200
Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP):
- Professional Verified: $1,100
- Full Representation: Starting from $2,400
THE WORK PERMIT APPLICATION PROCESS
Step-by-Step: From Job Offer to Work Authorization
The work permit application process varies depending on your permit type, but understanding the general stages helps you plan effectively.
For LMIA-Based:
Employer obtains job offer, completes recruitment, applies for and receives positive LMIA (8-12 weeks standard, 10 days for Global Talent Stream).
For LMIA-Exempt:
Employer confirms you meet exemption requirements (ICT, trade agreement, significant benefit, etc.).
For Open Work Permits:
Confirm you meet eligibility requirements (graduation, spousal relationship, PR application in progress, etc.).
Required Documents (varies by permit type):
- Valid passport
- Job offer letter and employment contract
- LMIA confirmation letter (if applicable) or proof of LMIA exemption
- Proof of qualifications (education certificates, work experience letters)
- Proof of funds
- Digital photo
- Medical examination results (if required)
- Police certificates (if required)
- Provincial approval (CAQ for Quebec positions)
Application Methods:
Online Application:
Most common. Submitted through IRCC online portal.
Paper Application:
Submit by mail to visa application center (used in specific situations).
Port of Entry Application:
Some permit types can be applied for at Canadian port of entry (visa-exempt countries only, specific categories only).
Most work permit applicants must provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) at designated collection point within 30 days of request.
Processing Times:
- LMIA-based work permits: 2-12 weeks (varies by country)
- LMIA-exempt work permits: 2-8 weeks (varies by category and country)
- Open work permits: 2-6 weeks (varies by type)
During processing, IRCC may request additional information or documentation.
If Approved:
For applicants outside Canada:
Receive approval letter. Present letter at Canadian port of entry where CBSA officer issues physical work permit.
For applicants inside Canada:
Receive work permit by mail or notification to download electronically.
Work Permit Details:
Specifies employer (if closed permit), occupation, location, conditions, and validity period.
Total Timeline: Can range from 4 weeks to 4+ months depending on permit type, country of residence, and complexity.
WORK PERMIT ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS
General Requirements for All Work Permits
While specific requirements vary by permit type, there are common eligibility factors that apply to most work permits:
Job offer must be genuine and from a real Canadian employer. Position must match your qualifications and experience.
You must have the education, training, and/or experience required for the position.
You must satisfy the officer that you'll leave Canada when your work authorization expires (unless applying through programs with clear PR pathways).
You must have sufficient funds to support yourself and any dependents in Canada.
You must be admissible to Canada (no serious criminal record, no health concerns that pose public health/safety risk, no security concerns).
Required for certain occupations and countries of residence.
Police certificates may be required depending on your situation.
If you need to stay in Canada longer, you can apply to extend your work permit.
When to Apply:
At least 30 days before your current work permit expires.
Requirements:
- Continue to meet work permit eligibility
- Employer continues to meet requirements (LMIA still valid, if applicable)
- Maintain status in Canada
Implied Status:
If you apply before expiry, you maintain implied status and can continue working while waiting for decision.
HOW WE HELP — YOUR TWO SERVICE OPTIONS
Whether you’re applying for an LMIA-based work permit, LMIA-exempt permit, or open work permit, we provide expert guidance tailored to your situation.
Option 1: Professional Verified
You prepare your application with our expert guidance and review.
Perfect for workers who want to be hands-on with their application but need professional oversight and strategic advice.
- You're comfortable gathering documents and completing forms
- You want expert guidance on work permit requirements
- You want professional review to ensure accuracy
- You're looking for cost-effective professional support
Eligibility Assessment
We determine which work permit category fits your situation and confirm you meet requirements.
Document Checklist
Customized checklist for your specific work permit type and circumstances.
Application Guidance
Clear instructions on completing all required forms accurately and compiling supporting documents.
Full Legal Audit
Once you've prepared your complete application, we conduct thorough review and provide detailed corrections.
Final Verification
Final review before submission to ensure everything is complete and accurate.
Option 2: Full Representation
We handle everything for you from start to finish.
Perfect for workers who want complete peace of mind, have complex situations, or prefer professional management of their entire application.
- You want stress-free, fully managed application process
- You have a complex case or unique circumstances
- You prefer a legal team to handle all aspects
- You value ongoing communication and professional representation
Complete Application Preparation
We prepare all forms, organize all documents, and compile your complete application package.
LMIA Support (if applicable)
For LMIA-based permits, we can assist your employer with the LMIA process or coordinate with their team.
IRCC Communication
We act as your authorized representative and handle all correspondence with IRCC on your behalf.
Additional Document Requests
We manage any requests from IRCC for additional information or clarification.
Ongoing Support
Regular communication throughout the process from application to approval.
Still Not Sure Which Option Fits?
Book a free 15-minute discovery call. We’ll discuss your situation and help you choose the service level that matches your needs, timeline, and comfort level.
How We Charge: Clear, Fair, and Transparent
We believe you should know exactly what to expect. Our fees are straightforward, with no hidden costs or surprises.
WHY CHOOSE IPJ IMMIGRATION FOR YOUR WORK PERMIT APPLICATION
Experienced in Both Simple and Complex Cases
From straightforward applications to misrepresentation, inadmissibility, and procedural fairness letters, we bring over 20 years of experience to every situation — whether you need full representation or a guided review before submitting.
Warm, Human Support for Every Client
We take the time to understand your story, your goals, and your concerns. You’re never treated like a file number — you’re a person, and your journey matters.
ESL‑Friendly Communication
We explain every step in clear, simple language. No jargon. No confusion. Just steady, accessible guidance that supports both full‑service clients and those completing their own applications.
Thorough, Organized Application Preparation
Every form, document, and submission is reviewed with care to reduce delays and strengthen your application — including detailed reviews for clients who want expert feedback before submitting on their own.
Transparent, Predictable Process
You always know what stage you’re in, what comes next, and what we’re doing on your behalf. No surprises, no uncertainty
Clear, Steady Guidance You Can Trust
Immigration can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re preparing your application on your own. We provide calm, organized support so you always know what to expect and how to move forward.
A Women‑Led, Family‑Run Firm
Our approach is grounded in empathy, integrity, and genuine care — values that shape every interaction and every application we support.
A Lawyer and Immigration Consultants Working Together
Your application benefits from a team that combines legal insight with regulated Canadian immigration consulting. Our professionals are licensed by the Law Society of Ontario and the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants, and we maintain active memberships with CILA and CAPIC to stay current with evolving policies and best practices. This collaborative approach strengthens your strategy, reduces errors, and ensures your case is reviewed from multiple professional perspectives.
Our Regulators
Our Associations
What Our Clients Say
Every application represents someone’s hopes, dreams, and future. Here are just a few of the people we’ve been honored to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an LMIA and a work permit?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document the employer must obtain from Employment and Social Development Canada before you can apply for certain work permits. The work permit is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and authorizes you to work in Canada. Not all work permits require an LMIA.
Most work permits require a job offer from a Canadian employer. Exceptions include open work permits (PGWP, SOWP, BOWP) which don't require specific job offers.
Standard LMIA processing takes 8-12 weeks. The Global Talent Stream offers 10-business-day processing for eligible high-skilled positions.
It depends on your current status and the type of work permit. Some work permits can be applied for from within Canada if you have valid temporary resident status. Others require application from outside Canada.
An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada (with few exceptions) without needing a specific job offer. Open work permits are available only in specific circumstances (PGWP, SOWP, BOWP, etc.).
If you hold a work permit for a skilled occupation (NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3), your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP).
CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement, formerly NAFTA) allows professionals, traders, and investors from the US and Mexico to work in Canada without an LMIA. Specific occupations are eligible under the agreement.
If you have a closed (employer-specific) work permit, you generally cannot change employers without applying for a new work permit. Open work permit holders can change employers freely.
Work permit validity varies depending on the type and circumstances. LMIA-based permits can be issued for the period specified in the LMIA (typically 1-3 years). Open work permits like PGWP can be valid up to 3 years. Your work permit will specify your authorized period.
Yes, you can apply to extend your work permit if you continue to meet eligibility requirements. Apply at least 30 days before your current permit expires.
If you apply to extend your work permit before it expires, you maintain "implied status" and can continue working under the same conditions while waiting for a decision on your extension application.
Medical examinations are required for certain occupations (healthcare, childcare, teaching) and for applicants from certain countries, or for work permits exceeding 6 months in some cases.
Yes, your spouse/partner and dependent children can accompany you. Your spouse may be eligible for an open work permit if you're in a skilled occupation.
You'll receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. Depending on the circumstances, you may be able to reapply with a stronger application addressing the refusal reasons.
Yes, you can take courses or programs that are six months or less without a study permit. For longer programs, you'll need to apply for a study permit.
The PGWP is an open work permit available to recent graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions. It allows you to work for any employer anywhere in Canada for up to 3 years, depending on your program length.
An ICT work permit allows multinational companies to transfer employees from foreign offices to Canadian branches, subsidiaries, or affiliates without requiring an LMIA. The transferred employee must be in an executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge role.
It depends on the IEC category. Working Holiday participants receive open work permits and can work for any employer. Young Professionals and International Co-op participants receive employer-specific permits.
A BOWP allows you to continue working in Canada while your permanent residence application is being processed, if your current work permit is expiring.
Not legally required, but professional guidance significantly increases your chances of approval and reduces processing delays. Many clients use our Professional Verified service for expert guidance and review, while others prefer Full Representation for complete peace of mind.
How Would You Like to Get Started?
You can reach us in the way that feels most comfortable for you. If you prefer to speak with someone directly, you can book a consultation. If you’re still deciding between Guided Application Review and Full Care Representation, you can complete a short questionnaire and receive a personalized recommendation within 24 hours.
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Complete a short questionnaire to help us understand your comfort level, your timeline, and the complexity of your situation. A licensed consultant will review your answers and get back to you within 24 hours with a clear, personalized recommendation.