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

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

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.

Bringing your family to Canada with you

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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