Overview
A Canadian work permit allows foreign nationals to legally work in Canada for a specific period. There are two main types:
LMIA-based (Employer-Specific) Work Permits: Require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), showing that no Canadian worker is available for the job.
Open Work Permits: Allow you to work for almost any employer in Canada and do not require an LMIA. Eligibility for open work permits is limited and, as of January 2025, has become more restrictive, especially for family members of foreign workers and students.
Work permits are essential for temporary foreign workers, international graduates, and accompanying family members. The process and eligibility have changed significantly in 2025, so it’s important to follow the latest rules and documentation requirements.
Why Choose Us for Work Permits?
Up-to-date Expertise: We stay current with all 2025 changes, including new eligibility rules for open work permits and stricter documentation requirements.
Employer & Employee Support: We guide both employers (for LMIA applications) and employees through every step, ensuring compliance and maximizing success.
Document Preparation: Our team ensures all paperwork-job offers, LMIA documents, proof of relationship, education, and finances-is complete and accurate.
Strategic Advice: We help you choose the right work permit type and explore alternative pathways if you’re not eligible under new rules.
Timely Processing: We track your application, respond to IRCC or ESDC requests, and keep you informed at every stage.
- Expert Eligibility Assessment
- Up-to-date Process Guidance
- Transparent Fees
- High Success Rate
Work Permit Process
A. LMIA-Based (Employer-Specific) Work Permits
Employer Applies for LMIA:
Employer identifies the job’s NOC code and wage rate.
Job is advertised to Canadian citizens/permanent residents for at least 30 days.
Employer interviews local applicants and documents recruitment efforts.
LMIA application is submitted to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), including all business legitimacy documents and payment of fees.
ESDC reviews the application and may interview the employer.
If approved, the employer receives a positive LMIA.
Work Permit Application:
The foreign worker applies for a work permit using the positive LMIA and job offer letter.
Submit all required documents (passport, education, language test if needed, proof of funds).
Pay the processing fee and biometrics fee.
Application is processed by IRCC; if approved, a work permit is issued (often at a port of entry).
Processing Times:
Vary by stream: Global Talent Stream (1–2 weeks), Agricultural (1–3 weeks), High/Low Wage (2–3 months), Permanent Resident stream (3–4 months).
Complete and accurate documentation can help speed up processing.
B. Open Work Permits
Eligibility Check (2025 Rules):
As of January 21, 2025, open work permits for family members are only available to spouses of certain international students (master’s, doctoral, or select professional programs) and to spouses of high-skilled foreign workers (TEER 0, 1, and designated TEER 2 and 3 roles).
Other open work permit categories include post-graduate work permits for international graduates and bridging open work permits for PR applicants.
Gather Documents:
Proof of relationship (marriage certificate, common-law declaration).
Principal applicant’s valid work or study permit.
Education credentials, language proof (if required), and proof of funds.
Submit Application:
Apply online via the IRCC portal or at a Visa Application Centre.
Pay the required fees and upload all supporting documents.
Track your application status and respond promptly to any IRCC requests.
Processing & Arrival:
If approved, you receive your open work permit and can work for almost any employer in Canada.
Prepare for arrival by arranging travel, accommodation, and other essentials.
Frequently Asked Question
