Loading...
Work in Canada
Canadian Work Permits
Build your career in Canada with the right work authorization. We help you navigate LMIA processes, open work permits, and pathways to permanent residence.
Work Permit Categories
Types of Canadian Work Permits
Choose the right work permit based on your situation, job offer, and immigration goals.
Employer-Specific Work Permit
LMIA-Based
Work for a specific employer who has obtained a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- Tied to one employer
- Requires positive LMIA
- Specific job and location
- Can lead to PR through Express Entry
Open Work Permit
No LMIA Required
Work for any employer in Canada without needing a job offer or LMIA.
- Work for any employer
- No LMIA required
- Flexible employment
- Available to specific groups
Post-Graduation Work Permit
PGWP
For international students who graduated from eligible Canadian institutions.
- Up to 3 years duration
- Open work permit
- Gain Canadian experience
- Pathway to PR
Spousal Open Work Permit
SOWP
For spouses or common-law partners of certain work or study permit holders.
- Open work authorization
- Tied to spouse's permit
- No job offer needed
- Work anywhere in Canada
LMIA ProcessGet LMIA Guidance
Understanding the Labour Market Impact Assessment
An LMIA is a document that an employer in Canada must obtain before hiring most foreign workers. It demonstrates that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market.
LMIA Processing Information
2-4 months
Typical processing
$1,000 CAD
Employer fee
Common LMIA Exemptions
Some work permits don't require an LMIA. You may be exempt if you fall under:
- International agreements (CUSMA/USMCA, CETA)
- Intra-company transferees
- Significant benefit to Canada
- Reciprocal employment
- Charitable or religious work
- International Experience Canada (IEC)
- PGWP holders
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) holders
Application Process
How to Get a Canadian Work Permit
01
Determine Eligibility
Assess which work permit category applies to your situation and employer.
02
LMIA (If Required)
Your employer applies for a Labour Market Impact Assessment from ESDC.
03
Gather Documents
Collect required documents including job offer, LMIA (if applicable), and supporting evidence.
04
Submit Application
Apply online or at a visa office. Include biometrics if required.
PGWP Changes for 2025-2026
IRCC has made significant changes to Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility. Starting November 2024, only graduates from programs in eligible fields of study can apply for a 3-year PGWP. Some fields are currently frozen for new applications.
Get Updated PGWP GuidancePlanning the path from work permit to permanent residence?
Canadian work experience adds up to 80 CRS points. See how your profile stacks up against recent Express Entry draw cutoffs.
Common Questions
Work Permit FAQs
What is an LMIA and when is it required?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need before hiring a foreign worker. It verifies that there is a need for a foreign worker and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job. Most employer-specific work permits require an LMIA, though many exemptions exist.
How long can I work in Canada with a work permit?
Work permit duration varies. Employer-specific permits are typically valid for the duration stated in the LMIA (usually 1-2 years). Open work permits can be valid for up to 3 years. Post-Graduation Work Permits are valid for 8 months to 3 years depending on program length.
Can I change employers while on a work permit?
If you have an employer-specific work permit, you generally need to apply for a new work permit to change employers. If you have an open work permit, you can work for any employer without applying for a new permit.
Can a work permit lead to permanent residence?
Yes! Canadian work experience can significantly boost your Express Entry CRS score. Many workers transition to permanent residence through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs, or the Canadian Experience Class after gaining qualifying work experience in Canada. Use our free CRS calculator to estimate how many points your Canadian experience adds.
What is a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)?
A BOWP allows you to continue working in Canada while waiting for your permanent residence application to be processed. It's available to work permit holders who have applied for PR through certain economic immigration programs.
Ready to Work in Canada?
Let our experts guide you through the work permit process. We'll help you choose the right pathway and prepare a strong application.