Work Permit Canada: Requirements & Complete Guide
A Canadian work permit generally allows a foreign national to work in Canada for a limited period and under specific conditions. This guide explains work permit types, eligibility, LMIA and LMIA-exempt applications, open work permits, documents, fees, extensions and the rules foreign workers must follow in Canada.
1. What Is a Work Permit?
A work permit is an immigration document that authorizes a foreign national to work in Canada under the conditions stated on the permit. Most foreign nationals who want to work in Canada need either a work permit or a specific exemption from the work permit requirement.
A work permit is temporary immigration authorization. It does not by itself provide permanent resident status and it is not the same as a temporary resident visa (TRV) or electronic travel authorization (eTA).
Canada generally issues two types of work permits: employer-specific work permits and open work permits . The correct type depends on the immigration program and the worker’s circumstances.
A work permit authorizes work in Canada. A TRV or eTA is a travel document used to travel to Canada when one is required. Holding a valid work permit does not automatically give a person the right to enter Canada.
2. Who Needs a Work Permit?
Most foreign nationals need authorization to work in Canada. In many cases, that authorization takes the form of an employer-specific or open work permit.
Whether a person needs a work permit depends on the activities they will perform in Canada, not simply on whether they will receive payment.
Employment in Canada
A foreign national entering the Canadian labour market will generally require a work permit unless a specific exemption applies.
Business activities are different
Some business visitors can conduct qualifying international business activities in Canada without obtaining a work permit, provided they meet the requirements of the business visitor exemption and do not enter the Canadian labour market.
Check the activity before relying on an exemption
Work permit exemptions are specific. A person should not assume that a short visit, unpaid activity or foreign source of remuneration automatically means that no work permit is required.
For a broader assessment of the requirements, see the Work Permit Eligibility Guide .
3. Who Can Work in Canada Without a Work Permit?
Canadian immigration law allows certain foreign nationals to perform qualifying work or activities in Canada without obtaining a work permit. Each exemption has its own requirements.
Examples of work permit exemptions
Depending on the circumstances, exemptions may apply to certain business visitors, foreign representatives, military personnel, athletes and coaches, performing artists, news reporters, public speakers, emergency service providers, religious leaders and other specified workers.
Students and recent graduates
Eligible international students may be authorized to work on or off campus without a separate work permit. Certain recent graduates who have submitted an eligible work permit application may also have authorization to work while the application is being processed.
Short-term work exemptions
Specific exemptions can also apply to certain short-term highly skilled workers and researchers when all applicable conditions are met.
4. Types of Canadian Work Permits
Canada has two main types of work permits: employer-specific work permits and open work permits.
| Type | Main characteristic |
|---|---|
| Employer-specific work permit | Authorizes work according to the employer and other conditions stated on the permit. |
| Open work permit | Generally allows work for most eligible employers in Canada, subject to applicable restrictions. |
Employer-specific permits can be supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or can be LMIA-exempt under an applicable International Mobility Program category.
Many LMIA-exempt work permits are employer-specific. The LMIA requirement and the distinction between an open and employer-specific work permit are separate issues.
5. Employer-Specific Work Permits
An employer-specific work permit authorizes a foreign national to work according to the conditions stated on the permit.
These conditions can identify the employer, occupation, work location and period during which the foreign national is authorized to work.
Employer requirements
Before the worker applies, the employer normally needs to complete the required employer-side process. Depending on the immigration program, this may involve obtaining a positive LMIA or submitting an offer of employment through the Employer Portal under an LMIA-exempt category.
Changing employers
A worker with an employer-specific permit generally cannot simply begin working for a different employer. A new work permit or other authorization may be required before the new employment begins.
6. Open Work Permits
An open work permit generally allows the holder to work for most eligible employers in Canada without being tied to one specific employer.
A person cannot choose an open work permit simply because it provides more flexibility. Open work permits are available only when the applicant qualifies under a specific immigration category or public policy.
A job offer is generally not required
Because an open work permit is not job-specific, the applicant generally does not need an LMIA or an employer-specific offer of employment to obtain the permit.
Examples of open work permits
Examples include the Post-Graduation Work Permit , the Bridging Open Work Permit , certain spousal open work permits , the open work permit for vulnerable workers , and Working Holiday permits under International Experience Canada.
Restrictions can still apply
An open work permit is not completely unrestricted. Employment with certain ineligible employers is prohibited, and medical conditions can restrict work in occupations where protection of public health is required.
7. LMIA-Based Work Permits
Many employer-specific work permits require the Canadian employer to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before the foreign worker can apply for a work permit.
What is an LMIA?
An LMIA is an assessment conducted by Employment and Social Development Canada under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. It assesses the employer’s request to hire a temporary foreign worker under the applicable program requirements.
Employer applies first
The LMIA process is generally completed by the employer before the foreign national submits the work permit application.
Positive LMIA does not guarantee a work permit
A positive LMIA supports the employment component of the application, but the foreign national must still independently qualify for the work permit and satisfy immigration and admissibility requirements.
LMIA streams
Different LMIA streams and requirements can apply depending on factors such as the wage, occupation, location and nature of the employment.
8. LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Some foreign workers can obtain a LMIA-exempt work permit without their employer first obtaining an LMIA. These work permits are generally processed under the International Mobility Program (IMP).
Why can an LMIA exemption apply?
LMIA exemptions exist for different legal and policy reasons, including international agreements, Canadian interests, significant benefit, reciprocal employment, federal-provincial arrangements and other specified categories.
Employer-specific LMIA-exempt permits
Many LMIA-exempt work permits remain employer-specific. In these cases, the employer generally needs to submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay the applicable employer compliance fee unless an exemption applies.
Examples
Depending on the circumstances, LMIA exemptions can apply to intra-company transferees , workers under free trade agreements , significant-benefit applicants and other specifically authorized workers.
9. Temporary Foreign Worker Program vs International Mobility Program
Employer-supported Canadian work permits commonly fall within one of two broad frameworks: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the International Mobility Program (IMP).
| Program | General framework |
|---|---|
| TFWP | Generally requires a positive LMIA before the worker applies. |
| IMP | Includes work permits that are exempt from the LMIA requirement under an applicable category. |
The two programs use different employer procedures. Under the TFWP, the employer generally deals with the LMIA process. Under many employer-specific IMP categories, the employer instead submits the offer of employment through the Employer Portal before the worker applies.
10. General Work Permit Eligibility Requirements
Work permit eligibility depends on both the general requirements for temporary workers and the requirements of the specific work permit category.
Temporary residence
Applicants may need to satisfy an officer that they will leave Canada when their authorized period of stay ends, subject to Canadian immigration law and the recognition of dual intent where applicable.
Financial ability
Applicants may need to demonstrate that they have sufficient resources for themselves and accompanying family members during their stay and to leave Canada when required.
Admissibility
Criminal, security, medical and other inadmissibility issues can affect a work permit application.
Employer and employment requirements
For an employer-specific permit, the employer, employment offer and applicable LMIA or LMIA exemption must satisfy the requirements of the relevant program.
Category-specific requirements
Applicants must also satisfy any requirements specific to their work permit category, which can include education, experience, professional qualifications, language ability, nationality, relationship or permanent residence application status.
11. Job Offer and Employment Requirements
Most employer-specific work permit applications require a genuine offer of employment from a Canadian employer.
LMIA-based employment
When an LMIA is required, the employer generally obtains the LMIA before the worker applies. The worker then uses the relevant LMIA and employment information in the work permit application.
LMIA-exempt employment
For many employer-specific LMIA-exempt applications, the employer submits an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and provides the worker with the offer of employment number required for the work permit application.
Genuine employment
Immigration authorities may assess the genuineness of the job offer, the employer’s compliance history and whether the employment is consistent with the applicable immigration program.
Applicants who qualify for an open work permit generally do not need a specific Canadian job offer to apply.
12. How to Apply for a Work Permit
The exact work permit application process depends on the permit category and whether the applicant is applying from outside Canada, from inside Canada or, in limited circumstances, at a port of entry.
Step 1: Identify the correct work permit category
Determine whether the application is employer-specific or open and identify the legal or program basis for the work permit.
Step 2: Complete the employer process if required
For an employer-specific permit, the employer may first need an LMIA or may need to submit an LMIA-exempt offer of employment through the Employer Portal.
Step 3: Gather the supporting documents
Prepare identity documents, employment evidence, LMIA or offer information where applicable, proof of qualifications and any additional documents required for the category.
Step 4: Submit the application
Most work permit applications are submitted online through the appropriate IRCC process.
Step 5: Complete biometrics and medical requirements
Provide biometrics or complete an immigration medical examination when required.
Step 6: Wait for the decision
IRCC assesses the applicant, the work permit category and, where relevant, the employer and employment before making a decision.
13. Applying from Outside Canada
Foreign nationals outside Canada generally apply online for their work permit before travelling to Canada.
Determine the work permit type
Applicants must establish that they qualify for either the employer-specific work permit requested or a specific open work permit category.
Local requirements can apply
The application may require additional documents based on the applicant’s country or territory of residence and the responsible visa office instructions.
After approval
A person approved from outside Canada generally receives a port-of-entry letter of introduction. The letter is not the physical work permit. The actual permit is normally issued when the person enters Canada and continues to satisfy the applicable requirements.
14. Applying from Inside Canada
Not every foreign national who is physically present in Canada is eligible to submit an initial work permit application from inside Canada.
In-Canada eligibility depends on the applicant’s current status and circumstances and the work permit category being requested.
Existing workers
Workers who need to extend their authorization or change work permit conditions can generally use the applicable in-Canada process if they remain eligible.
Other eligible applicants
Certain students, family members, protected persons, refugee claimants, temporary resident permit holders and other specifically eligible foreign nationals may qualify to apply from inside Canada.
Visitors should not assume eligibility
Being legally present in Canada as a visitor does not by itself create a general right to apply for a work permit from inside Canada.
15. Applying at a Port of Entry
Some foreign nationals outside Canada may be eligible to apply for a work permit when they enter Canada at a port of entry, but this option is not available to everyone.
Applying before travel is recommended
IRCC recommends applying for a work permit before travelling to Canada. An applicant considering a port-of-entry application should first confirm that they meet all applicable eligibility requirements.
Entry-document requirements matter
Eligibility can depend on factors including nationality, whether the person requires a temporary resident visa, the work permit category, medical requirements and the documents available at the border.
In-Canada applicants
Most foreign nationals already in Canada can no longer leave Canada and use the port of entry to make an initial work permit or extension application. They should use the applicable online process.
Physical presence in Canada does not create a general right to leave and immediately return to obtain a work permit at the border.
16. Documents Required
Work permit document requirements vary by application type, work permit category, applicant and place of application. The Work Permit Documents Checklist provides a more detailed breakdown of commonly required supporting evidence.
Passport or travel document
Applicants generally need a valid passport or travel document. Passport validity can affect the maximum period for which a work permit can be issued.
Employment documents
Employer-specific applications may require an LMIA and employment information or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment number and supporting documents.
Proof of qualifications
Evidence may include education, professional credentials, licences, work experience and other documents demonstrating that the applicant can perform the proposed employment.
Category-specific evidence
An LMIA exemption or open work permit category may require additional evidence establishing the legal basis for eligibility.
Family and civil-status documents
Marriage certificates, proof of common-law relationship, birth certificates and other civil-status evidence may be required when family members are included or family-based eligibility is claimed.
Translations
Documents that are not in English or French must meet IRCC’s applicable translation requirements.
17. Work Permit Fees and Biometrics
Government fees depend on the type of work permit and the applicant’s circumstances. For a detailed explanation, see Work Permit Fees and Biometrics .
| Fee | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Work permit, including extension | $155 |
| Open work permit holder fee | $100 |
| Biometrics — individual | $85 |
| Biometrics — eligible family maximum | $170 |
| Restore worker status and obtain a new work permit | $401.25 |
Fees shown are current as of September 2026. Exemptions can apply in specific situations and government fees can change. Confirm the current IRCC fee schedule before applying.
Employer fees are separate
Employer-side fees may also apply. For example, many LMIA-exempt employer-specific applications require the employer to pay an employer compliance fee, while the LMIA process has separate employer requirements and fees.
18. Medical Examination Requirements
Some work permit applicants must complete an immigration medical examination before they can work in Canada or before they can work in certain occupations.
See the Work Permit Medical Exam Guide for a detailed explanation of when an immigration medical examination may be required.
Where the applicant has lived
Medical examination requirements can depend on the applicant’s recent residence or travel history and the intended duration of stay in Canada.
Occupations involving public health
A medical examination can be required for work in occupations where protection of public health is essential, including certain jobs involving health care, children or other specified settings.
Work permit conditions
If the required medical examination has not been completed, a work permit may contain restrictions preventing employment in certain occupations.
When required, the immigration medical examination must be completed by an IRCC-approved panel physician.
19. What Happens After You Apply?
After a work permit application is submitted, IRCC reviews whether the application is complete and whether the applicant meets the requirements of the requested work permit.
Biometrics
If biometrics are required, the applicant must follow the instructions provided by IRCC and complete them within the applicable period.
Additional information
IRCC may request additional documents, an immigration medical examination or other information required to assess the application.
Employer review
For employer-specific applications, IRCC can also assess the employer, employment offer and compliance with applicable program requirements.
Decision
IRCC will approve or refuse the application. The documents issued following approval depend on whether the applicant applied from inside or outside Canada.
20. Work Permit Processing Times
There is no single processing time for all Canadian work permits. Processing estimates vary depending on the application type, country or location, immigration program and IRCC workload.
Factors affecting processing
Processing can be affected by incomplete applications, biometrics, medical examinations, document verification, employer compliance reviews, admissibility issues and requests for additional information.
For a detailed explanation of how processing estimates work, see the Work Permit Processing Time Guide .
Check current estimates using Maplevisa’s Canada Immigration Processing Times .
21. Work Permit Conditions
A work permit holder must comply with the conditions imposed by Canadian immigration law and the conditions printed on the permit.
Employer-specific conditions
An employer-specific permit can restrict the worker to the employer, occupation or location identified on the permit.
Open work permit conditions
An open work permit provides broader employment authorization, but restrictions can still apply to particular employers or occupations.
Validity period
The worker should monitor the permit’s expiry date and apply for any required extension before authorized status expires.
Medical restrictions
A permit can contain restrictions on employment in occupations where a medical examination is required if the worker has not completed the necessary examination.
Review the employer, occupation, location, expiry date and all conditions on the work permit. Apparent errors should be addressed promptly.
22. Changing Employers or Jobs
A worker with an employer-specific work permit generally needs new authorization before beginning work for a different employer or in employment that is not authorized by the existing permit.
The Changing Employers on a Work Permit Guide explains the process and the authorization that may be required before new employment begins.
New employer process
The new employer may need to obtain an LMIA or complete the applicable LMIA-exempt Employer Portal process before the worker submits a new work permit application.
Do not assume an application authorizes the new job
Simply submitting a new employer-specific work permit application does not automatically authorize a worker to start the new employment.
Changing jobs with an open work permit
A valid open work permit generally provides greater flexibility to change employers, subject to the restrictions and conditions on the permit.
23. Extending a Work Permit
A temporary worker who wants to continue working in Canada beyond the validity of the current permit may need to apply to extend the work permit before the existing authorization expires.
Eligibility must continue
A work permit is not extended simply because the worker wants to remain employed. The applicant must continue to qualify for the work permit category being requested.
Employer-specific extensions
An employer-specific extension may require a new or valid LMIA or a new LMIA-exempt offer of employment, depending on the applicable category.
Open work permit extensions
An open work permit holder can only obtain another open work permit if they continue to qualify under an eligible open work permit category.
Apply before expiry
Applying before the current period of authorized stay expires can be important for maintaining temporary resident status and, where the legal requirements are met, continuing to work while the application is processed.
24. Maintained Status and Continuing to Work
A temporary resident who submits an eligible application to extend their authorized stay before it expires may remain in Canada under maintained status while IRCC processes the application.
Continuing to work
A worker who applies to extend their work authorization before expiry may be able to continue working under the applicable maintained-status rules while the application is pending.
Existing conditions can continue to matter
Maintained status does not automatically create a new open work permit. Whether and how the person can continue working depends on the previous authorization and the application submitted.
Travel outside Canada
Leaving Canada while relying on maintained status can affect the person’s ability to continue working after returning. Workers should review the consequences before travelling while an extension application is pending.
Maintained status and restoration are different. A person who waits until after status has been lost generally cannot rely on maintained status.
25. Restoration of Worker Status
A foreign worker who loses temporary resident status may, in some circumstances, be eligible to apply to restore their status and obtain a new work permit.
Stop working after status is lost
A person who loses worker status generally must stop working. Filing a restoration application does not itself restore status or create authorization to work.
Restoration period
Restoration is generally available only within the applicable period after loss of status, commonly 90 days, and only if the applicant meets the legal requirements for restoration.
A new work permit is also required
A person seeking to resume employment must qualify for the new work permit requested in addition to qualifying for restoration.
Restoration is not guaranteed
IRCC must approve the application. The worker should not resume employment merely because a restoration application has been submitted.
26. Open Work Permits for Spouses and Family Members
Some spouses or common-law partners of temporary foreign workers and international students may qualify for an open work permit. Eligibility is not automatic and has been significantly restricted in recent years.
Spouses of foreign workers
Under the current family open work permit measures, eligibility can depend on the principal worker’s occupation, immigration pathway, work permit validity and other requirements.
For certain high-skilled workers who are not on an eligible pathway to permanent residence, the principal worker generally needs to be employed in a qualifying TEER 0 or 1 occupation or a specified TEER 2 or 3 occupation, and additional requirements apply.
See the Spousal Open Work Permit for Foreign Workers Guide for the worker-specific requirements.
Spouses of international students
Open work permit eligibility is limited to spouses or common-law partners of students in specified programs, including qualifying master’s programs, doctoral programs and certain professional or other eligible programs.
Dependent children
Dependent children are no longer generally eligible for a family open work permit under the measure for family members of foreign workers that changed on January 21, 2025.
Family open work permit rules are category-specific. Do not assume that being the spouse or dependent of a worker or student is sufficient by itself.
27. Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers
Certain foreign workers in Canada who hold or recently held an employer-specific work permit may qualify for an open work permit if they are experiencing abuse, or are at risk of abuse, in the context of their employment.
This is a specific protective work permit category. It is not a general mechanism for changing employers or converting an employer-specific permit into an open work permit.
Evidence and eligibility
Applicants must establish that they meet the requirements of the vulnerable-worker measure. Evidence depends on the circumstances and can relate to the alleged abuse or risk of abuse and the applicant’s employment situation.
See the Vulnerable Workers Open Work Permit Guide for the detailed eligibility and application requirements.
28. Post-Graduation Work Permit
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows eligible graduates of qualifying Canadian institutions and programs to obtain an open work permit after completing their studies.
Graduating from a designated learning institution does not automatically create PGWP eligibility.
General eligibility
Eligibility depends on factors including the institution, program, duration and study history, as well as the requirements in effect for the graduate’s circumstances.
Language requirements
PGWP applications submitted on or after November 1, 2024 are subject to applicable language requirements. The required level depends on the type of program completed.
Field-of-study requirements
Certain graduates are subject to an eligible field-of-study requirement depending on the type of credential and when the study permit application was submitted. Bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degree graduates are not subject to the PGWP field-of-study requirement.
PGWP is generally available once
A person who has already received a PGWP generally cannot obtain another PGWP after completing another program.
29. Bridging Open Work Permit
A Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) can allow certain permanent residence applicants in Canada to continue working while their permanent residence application is being processed.
A permanent residence profile is not enough
Creating an Express Entry profile or entering a candidate pool does not by itself create BOWP eligibility. The applicant must meet the requirements associated with an eligible permanent residence application.
Eligible permanent residence programs
BOWP eligibility exists for specified permanent residence programs, including qualifying Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Program applicants and certain other classes identified by IRCC.
Acknowledgement of receipt
Depending on the permanent residence program, the applicant generally needs to have submitted the qualifying permanent residence application and reached the required stage of processing.
Provincial nominees
Additional requirements apply to provincial nominees, including requirements relating to employment restrictions on the nomination.
30. International Experience Canada
International Experience Canada (IEC) provides temporary work and travel opportunities to eligible youth from countries and territories that have an applicable arrangement with Canada.
Working Holiday
Working Holiday generally provides an open work permit, allowing eligible participants greater flexibility in choosing employers.
Young Professionals
Young Professionals generally involves an employer-specific work permit connected to qualifying professional employment.
International Co-op (Internship)
The International Co-op category is intended for eligible students who need work experience or an internship in Canada as part of their academic program.
Eligibility varies by country
Age limits, available categories, participation periods and the number of permitted participations depend on the participant’s citizenship and the applicable youth mobility arrangement.
31. Intra-Company Transfer Work Permits
An Intra-Company Transfer work permit can provide an LMIA-exempt pathway for certain employees transferring to a qualifying Canadian enterprise within a multinational organization.
Eligibility depends on the applicable legal framework and the relationship between the foreign and Canadian businesses, the worker’s prior employment and the position in Canada.
Corporate relationship
The foreign and Canadian enterprises must satisfy the applicable qualifying relationship requirements.
Worker requirements
The applicant must meet the requirements applicable to the specific intra-company transfer category being relied upon.
Employer-specific authorization
Intra-company transfer permits are generally employer-specific even though the application can be exempt from the LMIA requirement.
32. C11 Entrepreneur and Self-Employed Work Permits
Canadian immigration law does not provide a general open work permit simply because a foreign national owns a business or intends to become self-employed in Canada.
Entrepreneurs and self-employed applicants must identify a specific legal basis for work authorization.
Significant benefit
In appropriate circumstances, an entrepreneur or self-employed person may seek an LMIA-exempt employer-specific work permit where the proposed work satisfies the requirements of an applicable significant-benefit category.
The assessment is case-specific and can consider the nature of the proposed business or activity and the anticipated economic, social or cultural benefit to Canada.
Business ownership is not enough
Incorporating or purchasing a Canadian company does not itself create eligibility for a work permit. The applicant must establish that the applicable immigration requirements are met.
See the C11 Entrepreneur Work Permit Guide for the significant-benefit framework, ownership, business-plan and temporary-intent considerations.
The term “C11” is commonly used for certain significant-benefit entrepreneur or self-employed work permit applications. It should not be understood as a general business immigration visa available to every person who owns or buys a Canadian business.
33. Provincial Nominee Work Permits
Provincial nomination can create or support work permit options in certain circumstances, but a provincial nomination does not automatically authorize employment in Canada.
Employer-specific work permits
Some provincial nominees may be able to obtain an employer-specific LMIA-exempt work permit when the applicable federal and provincial requirements are met and the province provides the required support.
Bridging open work permits
Certain provincial nominees who have submitted qualifying permanent residence applications may become eligible for a BOWP, subject to the applicable requirements.
Provincial support is not the work permit
A nomination certificate or provincial support letter should not be confused with federal authorization to work. The foreign national must obtain or maintain the required federal work authorization.
For the different work permit options that may be available to nominees, see the Provincial Nominee Work Permit Guide .
34. Work Permits Under Free Trade Agreements
Canada’s international trade agreements can provide LMIA-exempt work permit options for eligible business persons and workers from partner countries.
CUSMA
The Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement includes temporary-entry provisions for specified categories of eligible business persons, including professionals, intra-company transferees, traders and investors who meet the applicable requirements.
Other international agreements
Canada has other free trade agreements containing temporary-entry provisions for qualifying business persons and workers. The available categories and requirements depend on the particular agreement.
LMIA exemption does not remove eligibility requirements
Applicants must still establish that they meet the specific requirements of the agreement and the work permit category being requested.
The Free Trade Agreement Work Permits Guide explains the international-agreement framework in greater detail.
Many work permits issued under international agreements are LMIA-exempt but remain employer-specific.
35. Work Permit Refusals
A work permit application can be refused when an officer is not satisfied that the applicant or proposed employment meets the applicable requirements.
Common areas of concern
Refusal issues can involve eligibility for the requested category, the LMIA or LMIA exemption, qualifications for the proposed employment, temporary-resident requirements, employer compliance, documentation or admissibility.
Review the actual refusal reasons
Before submitting another application, the applicant should identify the officer’s concerns and determine whether they can be addressed with corrected information, stronger evidence or a different work permit strategy.
Reapplication
A refused applicant can generally submit another application if eligible, but a new application should address the reasons for the previous refusal and satisfy the requirements in effect when the new application is filed.
Reconsideration and judicial review
Depending on the circumstances, an applicant may consider a reconsideration request or an application for judicial review in the Federal Court. These procedures are different from submitting a new work permit application and legal deadlines can apply.
See the Work Permit Refusal Guide for a more detailed discussion of refusal reasons and possible next steps.
36. Work Permit vs TRV or eTA
A work permit and a travel document serve different immigration purposes.
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Work permit | Authorizes work in Canada under specified conditions. |
| Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) | Allows a visa-required traveller to seek entry to Canada. |
| Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) | Allows an eligible visa-exempt traveller to travel to Canada by air. |
A valid work permit does not replace a TRV or eTA when a travel document is required. Similarly, a TRV or eTA does not authorize a foreign national to work in Canada.
Re-entry to Canada
A worker who leaves Canada should verify both their immigration status and the travel document needed to return. Final admission remains subject to examination at the border.
37. Work Permit and Permanent Residence
A Canadian work permit provides temporary work authorization and does not automatically lead to permanent residence.
However, eligible Canadian work experience, employment and provincial connections can be relevant to several permanent residence programs.
Express Entry
Canadian work experience can be relevant to programs managed through Express Entry , including the Canadian Experience Class and other economic immigration pathways.
Provincial Nominee Programs
Provinces and territories operate immigration streams that can nominate eligible foreign workers for permanent residence. Requirements vary by province and stream.
Work permit and PR eligibility are separate
Work authorization does not guarantee eligibility for permanent residence. Applicants should assess the requirements of the intended permanent residence program independently.
Maintaining status during PR processing
Submitting a permanent residence application does not automatically extend a work permit. Eligible applicants may need a Bridging Open Work Permit , another work permit or other valid temporary status while the permanent residence application is processed.
38. Work Permit FAQs
What are the two main types of Canadian work permits?
Canada generally issues employer-specific work permits and open work permits. Employer-specific permits authorize employment according to the conditions on the permit, while open work permits generally allow employment with most eligible employers.
Do I need a job offer to get a work permit?
Most employer-specific work permit applicants need a job offer. Applicants who qualify for an open work permit generally do not need a specific job offer.
Does every Canadian employer need an LMIA?
No. Some employer-specific work permits require an LMIA, while others are LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program.
Is an LMIA-exempt work permit an open work permit?
Not necessarily. Many LMIA-exempt work permits are employer-specific. LMIA exemption and open work permit status are separate concepts.
How much does a work permit cost?
The standard work permit processing fee is currently $155. An additional $100 open work permit holder fee applies to many open work permit applications. Biometrics fees may also apply.
Can I apply for a work permit from inside Canada?
Only applicants who meet the applicable in-Canada eligibility requirements can apply from inside Canada. Physical presence in Canada alone does not make a person eligible.
Can I apply for a work permit at the border?
Some eligible foreign nationals outside Canada can apply at a port of entry, but this option is restricted. IRCC recommends applying before travelling to Canada.
Can I change employers on a closed work permit?
An employer-specific work permit generally does not authorize employment with a different employer. New work authorization may be required before starting the new job.
Can I continue working after my work permit expires?
A worker who submitted an eligible extension application before expiry may be authorized to continue working under maintained-status rules. The exact authorization depends on the circumstances and application submitted.
What happens if my work permit expires before I apply?
If worker status is lost, the person generally must stop working. They may be eligible to apply for restoration and a new work permit within the applicable restoration period.
Can my spouse get an open work permit?
Possibly. Family open work permit eligibility depends on the principal applicant’s immigration status, work or study circumstances and the specific requirements of the applicable measure.
Does a work permit give me permanent residence?
No. A work permit provides temporary work authorization. Canadian work experience may help with eligibility for certain permanent residence programs, but permanent residence has separate requirements.
Is a work permit the same as a work visa?
No. A work permit authorizes work. A temporary resident visa is a travel document used by visa-required foreign nationals to travel to Canada.
Does a work permit guarantee entry to Canada?
No. A work permit or work permit approval does not guarantee admission. A foreign national remains subject to examination when seeking entry to Canada.
Work permit requirements, LMIA rules, LMIA exemptions, open work permit eligibility, fees and application procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada before relying on them for an application.
Work Permits — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada