Work permit: About the process
Fees
From $155
Processing time
About the process
Most foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada.
Answer a few questions if you’re not sure if you need a work permit or which one you should get.
There are 2 types of work permits.
Employer-specific work permit
An employer-specific work permit lets you work in Canada according to the conditions on your work permit, such as
- the name of the specific employer you can work for
- how long you can work
- the location where you can work (if applicable)
Before you apply for an employer-specific work permit, your employer must give you
- a copy of your employment contract
- 1 of the following:
- a copy of a labour market impact assessment (LMIA)
- an offer of employment number (for LMIA-exempt workers)
- To get this number, your employer must use the Employer Portal.
If your employer doesn’t need to use the Employer Portal
If your employer does not need to use the Employer Portal to submit an offer of employment, they must give you a copy of the employment contract.
Open work permit
An open work permit lets you work for any employer in Canada, except for one that
- is listed as ineligible on the list of employers who have failed to comply with the conditions, or
- regularly offers striptease, erotic dance, escort services or erotic massages
- You can only get an open work permit in specific situations.
Some jobs require a medical exam. If you don’t want medical conditions on your open work permit, you can get a medical exam from a panel physician.
If you want to bring your family with you
Your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children may be able to work, study or live with you while you work in Canada.
Features
Check if your representative is authorized
If you’re using a paid representative, find out if they’re licensed to represent you or give advice.
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