You need a work permit

If you’re a provincial nominee who hasn’t applied for permanent residence yet, you need a work permit to work in Canada.

You may be eligible for an employer-specific work permit if you’re a provincial nominee who has

• a letter from the provincial government confirming that the province has nominated you for permanent residence
• a job offer from an employer based in that province and
• a statement from the province that identifies the job and employer and states that
  • you’re urgently needed by your employer, who’s offered you a job in that province or territory
  • the job offer is genuine and the job offer will create economic benefits or opportunities
  • the employment is not part-time or seasonal and
  • the wages and working conditions of the employment would be sufficient to attract and retain Canadian citizens

Workers in Quebec

You’re not eligible if you’re a skilled worker in Quebec.

Before you apply for your work permit

Your employer must

• submit an offer of employment to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• pay a $230 employer compliance fee and
• provide you with an offer of employment number

Type of work permit

When you complete your work permit application, select “Exemption from Labour Market Impact Assessment” as the type of work permit in the “Details of intended work in Canada” section.

When you can apply

You can apply for this work permit before you submit your application for permanent residence.

How to apply for a work permit