Work Permit

Two main types

• Employer-specific work permit: tied to one employer, one job, one location. Usually requires an LMIA from Service Canada or an LMIA-exempt offer through programs like CUSMA, CETA, or Intra-Company Transfer.
• Open work permit: lets you work for almost any employer. Available to spouses of skilled workers and students, post-graduation grads (PGWP), some IEC participants, and bridging applicants in PR processing.

LMIA-based pathway

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is the employer's proof to Service Canada that no Canadian or PR was available to fill the role. Once granted, the foreign worker applies for the work permit. This is the most common path for occupation-specific work permits and the slowest — LMIA processing alone can take weeks to months.

LMIA-exempt streams

• International Mobility Program — covers reciprocal agreements (CUSMA / CETA / CPTPP / ICT)
• International Experience Canada (IEC) — working-holiday visas for citizens of partner countries
• Significant benefit to Canada (C10) — usually for senior executives or specialized talent
• Charitable or religious work (C50)
• Spouses of high-skilled workers and students

Application steps

• Confirm whether your situation requires an LMIA or qualifies for an exemption
• If LMIA-required: employer applies to Service Canada and obtains the LMIA
• Apply for the work permit online through IRCC ($155 CAD employer-specific or $255 CAD open)
• Provide biometrics ($85 CAD)
• Wait for processing — extremely variable by country and stream
• On approval, receive a Port of Entry letter; the work permit is issued when you arrive