Work Permit

The work permit application
process requires precision.

A single oversight or an improperly prepared application can lead to costly delays, outright refusal, and the loss of valuable job prospects. Ensuring your application is meticulously handled from the start is paramount to securing your Canadian work authorization.

 

Work Permit

A Global Path to Canada's Skilled Workforce

A single oversight or an improperly prepared application can lead to costly delays, outright refusal, and the loss of valuable job prospects. Ensuring your application is meticulously handled from the start is paramount to securing your Canadian work authorization.

 

What is work permit?

A Canadian work permit is an official authorization that allows foreign nationals to work legally in Canada. It's an essential document for those who wish to gain Canadian work experience, advance their careers, or even use it as a stepping stone towards permanent residency.


Canadian work permits are broadly categorized based on their conditions and whether they require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Understanding these distinctions is key to determining your eligibility. 

 
Employer-Specific Work Permits

For skilled workers with eligible foreign or Canadian work experience.

Open Work Permits

For skilled workers with eligible Canadian work experience.

General Requirements

  • Meet the eligibility criteria of the specific work permit stream you are applying for (e.g., possessing a valid job offer, meeting specific program conditions).


  • Prove your intention to leave Canada when your work permit expires.


  • Have sufficient funds to support yourself and your family while in Canada and to return home.


  • Not have a criminal record or any other inadmissibility issues that would prevent you from entering Canada.


  • Be in good health and complete a medical exam if required.

Language skills

While not always mandatory for all work permits, you may need to prove proficiency in English or French if your job requires it, or if it is a requirement of the specific work permit stream.

Education

Depending on the job offer or program requirements, you may need to demonstrate a specific level of education, often validated by an Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) for foreign credentials.

Work Experience

You must possess the relevant work experience required for your job offer or the specific work permit stream. This often needs to align with National Occupational Classification (NOC) requirements.

Types of work permits

Employer-Specific Work Permits

To work for a specific employer under defined conditions (e.g., job title, location, duration). They usually require an LMIA, which proves that a Canadian employer needs a foreign worker to fill a job after attempting to hire Canadians or permanent residents.

  • LMIA-Required: The most common type. Your employer must get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from the government, which confirms the need for a foreign worker.


  • LMIA-Exempt: These are for specific situations where no LMIA is needed, often under international agreements or for broader Canadian interests. Examples include Intra-Company Transfers and certain trade agreements.

Open Work Permits

To work for a specific employer under defined conditions (e.g., job title, location, duration). They usually require an LMIA, which proves that a Canadian employer needs a foreign worker to fill a job after attempting to hire Canadians or permanent residents.

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): For international students who have graduated from a designated Canadian learning institution.


  • Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP): For the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or international student.


  • Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP): For permanent residence applicants who are already in Canada and need to extend their work status while waiting for a final decision on their application.

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you’re handling it yourself or need guidance throughout, we’re here to support you.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consulation.
 

Start your immigration journey with confidence

Whether you're ready to start on your own—or want advice every step of the way—we've got your back.
Start with a $49.99 one-on-one consulation.

Express
Consultation

Speak with an immigration expert to get answers to questions and concerns

$49.99 (CAD)

30 minutes with an expert

Answers to basic question

Overview of immigration pathways

Key information on requirements

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Premium Consultation & Eligibility Assessment

In-depth analysis, eligibility assessment & tailored strategy

$149.99 (CAD)

60 minutes with an expert

Customized plan to maximize success

Eligibility review, CRS score, and best pathways

Guidance on required documents

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Self-Managed Application Support Consultation

Speak with an immigration expert to discuss your self-prepared application.

$199.99 (CAD)

60 minutes with an expert

Tips to strengthen your application

Answers to questions on forms, and requirements

Guidance on next steps after submission

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Get the help you need to succeed

Maximize Your Approval Chances

We ensure that every aspect of your work permit application is meticulously prepared and strategically presented to meet all specific requirements, significantly increasing your likelihood of approval.

Choose the Right Permit Strategy

With numerous work permit types and streams, we assess your unique situation to identify the most suitable pathway, whether it's an employer-specific, open, LMIA-exempt, or a specific program, ensuring optimal alignment with your goals.

Avoid Costly Mistakes

From scrutinizing job offers and LMIA details to meticulously reviewing all your supporting documentation, our experts ensure your submission is complete, consistent, and meets IRCC and ESDC's stringent requirements, avoiding unnecessary setbacks.

Addressing Complex Cases

We provide proactive guidance for navigating complex situations, addressing potential challenges during processing, and planning for extensions or alternative pathways to ensure your legal status in Canada remains uninterrupted.

What is the National Occupational Classification (NOC)?

The National Occupational Classification (NOC) is the official system used by the Canadian government to classify jobs based on their duties and the type of work performed. Finding your correct NOC code is the first crucial step in the FSWP process. It determines whether your work experience is considered "skilled" and therefore eligible for Express Entry.


To find your NOC, you should not rely on your job title alone. Instead, use the official NOC website and search for your occupation. Read the "Main Duties" section of the job descriptions to find the one that best matches your responsibilities. This ensures you select the correct code, which is essential for the accuracy of your Express Entry profile.

Find your NOC

Use the official Government of Canada tool to access the complete list of occupations and find the code that matches your work experience.

Key Considerations

  • Permit Duration: Work permits are issued for a specific period, usually matching your job offer or program eligibility.


  • Conditions: Your work permit will have conditions outlining what you can and cannot do (e.g., specific employer, job, location).


  • Family Members: In many cases, your spouse/common-law partner may be eligible for an open work permit, and your dependent children may be able to study in Canada.


  • Extensions: If you wish to continue working in Canada, you must apply to extend your work permit before it expires.

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

Issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), an Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) confirms that there is a genuine need for a foreign worker to fill a specific job and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job.


A positive LMIA is often a crucial step for employers to hire temporary foreign workers and for those workers to apply for an employer-specific work permit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. Most immigration programs designed to attract skilled workers let you include your family in your application for permanent residency in Canada. This includes your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children. Additionally, Canada has separate programs where citizens and permanent residents can sponsor certain close relatives for immigration.

While there's no age limit to apply for economic immigration programs, your age will affect your score.  These programs award points based on various factors like education, language skills, work experience, and even having a job lined up in Canada. People between 25 and 35 get the highest score for age, but don't worry!  If you're outside this range, you can make up for it with strong points in other categories.

If you're an international student wanting to study in Canada, you'll need a study permit. To get one, you must first be accepted by a school approved by the Canadian government (called a designated learning institution). You'll also need to show you have enough money to cover your schooling, living costs, and even the ticket back home.

Our commitment is to your success, and we never recommend services unless you genuinely qualify. We believe in open communication and will always explore the most realistic options for your situation. Furthermore, our unwavering support extends beyond the application process. We're with you every step of the way, even in challenging circumstances, ensuring a smooth and successful immigration journey to Canada.

Our team is committed to your success, and we'll explore all realistic pathways to achieve your Canadian immigration goals. We believe in clear communication and will keep you informed throughout the process.

Consult with an immigration expert

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licensed and insured representatives with you every step of the way

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CanadianVisas.com is operated by Can-Am Immigration Inc., a Canadian immigration consulting firm. We provide access to Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCICs) licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), as well as full representation services and self-guided immigration tools. CanadianVisas.com is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice, except as authorized under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and the Citizenship Act of Canada.

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