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Updated 2026-02-11
Work Permit Processing Time: 1-6 Months
Processing varies by permit type and location - plan your Canadian work journey
Current Time
1-6 months (varies by type)
Last Updated
2026-02-11
Trend
Times are stable
Processing Time Overview
About Work Permit Processing
Work permit processing times vary significantly depending on the type of permit and where you're applying from. LMIA-based employer-specific work permits typically take 2-6 months to process, while open work permits (such as those for spouses of skilled workers or international students after graduation) may take 3-5 months. LMIA-exempt work permits under international agreements (CUSMA/USMCA, CETA, etc.) can be processed much faster, often within 2-8 weeks.
Processing begins after you've submitted a complete application, and for LMIA-based permits, after your employer has received a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment. The LMIA process itself takes an additional 2-4 months and must be completed before you can apply for your work permit, so factor this into your timeline. Inside Canada applications for work permit extensions typically process faster than outside Canada applications.
Global Talent Stream work permits have expedited processing of approximately 2 weeks for qualifying positions in high-demand occupations. This stream requires employer participation and meeting specific criteria. International Experience Canada (IEC) work permits for eligible youth from partner countries have varying processing times, typically 4-12 weeks depending on the applicant's country and time of year.
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Historical Data
Processing Time Trends
Track how processing times have changed over recent months
January 2026
1-6 months
Q4 2025
2-6 months
Q3 2025
2-7 months
Q2 2025
3-6 months
Q1 2025
2-5 months
2024 Average
2-8 months
Processing Factors
What Affects Processing Time?
Understanding these factors can help you prepare a stronger application
Type of work permit (LMIA-based, open, LMIA-exempt, IEC)
Country of residence and visa office processing capacity
Whether applying from inside or outside Canada
LMIA processing time if employer-specific (adds 2-4 months)
Completeness of application and employer documentation
Whether position qualifies for Global Talent Stream (2-week processing)
Expert Tips
How to Avoid Processing Delays
Follow these best practices to keep your application moving smoothly
Ensure your employer has a positive LMIA before applying (if required)
Check if your position qualifies for LMIA-exemption or Global Talent Stream
Apply for extension at least 4 months before current work permit expires
Submit detailed job offer letter with duties, salary, and employment conditions
Provide proof of qualifications and work experience matching the job requirements
Complete medical exams upfront if required for your occupation
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Work Permit processing times
How long does it take to get a work permit in Canada?
Work permit processing times range from 1 to 6 months depending on several factors. LMIA-exempt work permits (international agreements) take 2-8 weeks, open work permits take 3-5 months, LMIA-based employer-specific permits take 2-6 months (plus 2-4 months for LMIA processing), and Global Talent Stream permits take approximately 2 weeks. Processing time also varies by your country of residence and whether you're applying from inside or outside Canada.
What is the difference between an open work permit and an employer-specific work permit?
An employer-specific work permit ties you to a specific employer, job, and location as stated on your permit. You must have a job offer and, usually, a positive LMIA from your employer. An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada (with some exceptions) without a job offer or LMIA. Open work permits are available in specific situations: spouses of skilled workers or international students, Post-Graduation Work Permit holders, permanent residence applicants, protected persons, and other specified categories.
Do I need an LMIA for my work permit?
Not all work permits require an LMIA. You don't need an LMIA if you qualify under LMIA-exempt categories such as: intra-company transfers, CUSMA/NAFTA professionals, international agreements (CETA, CPTPP), significant benefit (entrepreneurs, self-employed), Canadian interests, reciprocal employment, or charity/religious work. You also don't need an LMIA for open work permits. However, most employer-specific work permits do require a positive LMIA from your employer, which takes 2-4 months to obtain.
Can I extend my work permit from inside Canada?
Yes, you can apply to extend your work permit from inside Canada if you currently hold a valid work permit or are still within your authorized period of stay (even if your permit has expired within the last 90 days under the restoration process). It's recommended to apply at least 4 months before your current permit expires. If you apply before your permit expires and maintain your status conditions, you have implied status and can continue working under the same conditions while waiting for a decision.
What happens if my work permit expires while processing my extension?
If you applied for your work permit extension before your current permit expired and maintained your status conditions, you have implied status. This means you can continue working under the same conditions while waiting for a decision on your extension application. However, if your permit expired and you did not apply for extension or restoration within 90 days, you've lost your status and must stop working immediately. You can apply for restoration of status within 90 days of expiry, but you cannot work during this time.
Related Programs
Other Processing Times
Check processing times for related immigration programs
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