Temporary visas
The Canadian work permit
For many people, working in Canada is the start of their immigration journey. Find out which type of work permit fits your situation.
An overview
There are two main kinds of work permit: employer-specific, which is only for one named employer, and open, which is valid for most employers.
For many employer-specific permits the employer must first get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Some permits are LMIA-exempt.
Temporary visasKey points
Employer-specific
Work for one named employer, in the set job and conditions.
Open work permit
Work for most employers, for specific groups.
LMIA
A document the employer gets to show a foreign worker is needed.
Special programs
Such as youth exchange programs or intra-company transfers.
The steps in short
- 1
Decide the permit type
Match it to your situation.
- 2
Job offer
Where needed, an LMIA or an offer of employment number from the employer.
- 3
Prepare documents
Passport, education and work records.
- 4
Apply and give biometrics
Online through your IRCC account.
- 5
Decision and start work
Under the conditions written on the permit.
Common documents
- A valid passport
- A job offer or contract
- An LMIA or offer of employment number, where needed
- Education and work records
- Language test result, where needed
- Photo and identity documents
A warning
- Do not pay to "buy" a job offer or an LMIA; it can be illegal and put your file at risk.
- Getting an LMIA does not mean an automatic work permit.
- Always follow the permit's conditions; work outside them is not allowed.
- Skilled work experience in Canada can help later in permanent residence routes.
Frequently asked questions
Who can get an open work permit?
Specific groups, such as some graduates of Canadian schools, some spouses and participants in youth exchange programs. The current rules must be checked.
Do all work permits need an LMIA?
No. Some permits, such as those based on international agreements, are LMIA-exempt.
Can a work permit lead to permanent residence?
It can. Some routes, such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and some provincial programs, look at Canadian work experience.