Canadian Work Permit Is Easy If You Know These Steps

Many people dream of working in Canada, but only a few work towards making that dream a reality. With its rapidly growing economy, high standard of living, and breathtaking natural environment, Canada welcomes hundreds of thousands of foreign workers each year. In 2024, approximately 909,035 people were issued Canadian work permits. The figures keep increasing each year as the expanding economy calls for more foreign workers to fill the huge labour shortage.

Dreaming of working in Canada is easy; however, choosing the ideal type of work permits and the application processes can be overwhelming. This article is designed to guide you through the complexity of getting a Canadian work permit. We’ll explain the main pathways, break down the steps, and provide the resources you need to start this life-changing journey. Let’s begin with the most important question: Which Canadian work visa is right for you?

Work Permit vs. Visa – What’s the Difference?

First, let’s clarify some terminology, as many often find it confusing.

Work Permit: This is the physical document (or digital status) that permits you to work in Canada. It is evidence that the Canadian government has approved your eligibility to work in Canada. It specifies conditions like your employer, job location, and duration.
Visa or eTA: This is the travel document that allows you to enter Canada. Many nationals need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to board a flight.

Important: You must have both a valid work permit and the proper travel document to enter Canada to work. Some nationals are exempt from needing a visa or eTA; check the official IRCC website to see what applies to your passport.

The Two Main Types of Canadian Work Permits

There are different types of work permits, but they all fall into one of two broad categories:

A. Employer-Specific Work Permit

This is the most common type. An employer-specific permit determines your working conditions, such as for a specific employer, at a specific location, for a specific period.

The Key Requirement: In most cases, your Canadian employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for you.
What is an LMIA? An LMIA is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) to prove that an employer opted for a foreign worker because no suitable Canadian citizen or permanent resident could be found for the job. This policy is to protect the Canadian labour market.
Crucial Note: The employer applies for the LMIA, not you. Your LMIA number should be attached to your job offer letter.

B. Open Work Permit

This type of permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada (with some exceptions). Unlike the employer-specific work permit, you are not tied to a specific job. You do not need an LMIA or even a job offer to apply for an open work permit. However, you must be eligible under a specific program.

You also like: Work in Canada With Free Permit Support: Earn Up to CA$55,000

Major Work Permit Programs in Canada

Your eligibility for each of the following programs depends entirely on your personal situation. Use this guide to identify your ideal pathway.

International Experience Canada (IEC) – The “Working Holiday” Program

Who it’s for: Young adults (typically 18-35, age varies by country) from over 30 partner countries (like the UK, France, Australia, Germany, Japan, etc.).
The Details: It has three categories:
1. Working Holiday: An open work permit for travel and temporary work.
2. Young Professionals: An employer-specific permit for gaining professional work experience.
3. International Co-op: For students needing a work placement as part of their studies.
The Process: You create a profile in an online “pool.” IRCC holds regular invitation rounds. If you are invited, submit a full application. Quotas fill quickly due to high interest!

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Who it’s for: Graduates of eligible programs at a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
The Details: This is an open work permit. The length depends on the duration of your study program (typically 8 months to 3 years).
Critical Rule: You must apply within 180 days of receiving your final grades and written confirmation that you’ve completed your program.

Spousal or Common-Law Partner Open Work Permit

Who it’s for: The spouse or partner of a person who is in Canada as:
- A skilled worker in a high-skill occupation.
- An international student at any public Designated Learning Institution.
- A person who has themselves applied for Permanent Residence from within Canada.
The Details: This is an open work permit, allowing the spouse/partner to work for any employer.

Work Permits Through Express Entry

Who it’s for: Skilled workers who have been invited to apply (ITA) for Canadian Permanent Residence through the Express Entry system.
Two Key Scenarios:
1. LMIA-Exempt Job Offer: A valid job offer from a Canadian employer can give you extra points in Express Entry, and this may also allow you to apply for a closed work permit while your PR application is processing.
2. Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP): If you are already working in Canada on a valid permit, have submitted your Permanent Residence (PR) application, and your current work permit is about to expire, you can apply for a BOWP to “bridge” you until a decision is made on your PR.

Other Notable Pathways

CUSMA (formerly NAFTA) Professionals: For citizens of the US and Mexico in specific professions (like engineers, accountants, scientists). The process is often streamlined and LMIA-exempt.
Intra-Company Transfer: For employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Canadian branch.
Caregiver Pilots: For qualified caregivers coming to Canada to provide home care for children or seniors, with a pathway to Permanent Residence.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Work Permits: Many provinces have “enhanced” nominations that allow you to apply for a closed work permit while your PR application is processed.

The Application Process For a Canadian Work Permit

Once you identify your program, the general application steps are similar and easy to follow.

1: Gather Your Documents

Required documents vary, but typically they include:

Valid passport.
Digital photo meeting specifications.
Job offer letter (and a copy of LMIA, if required).
Proof you meet the job requirements (diplomas, degrees, reference letters).
Proof of financial support to settle in Canada.
Family information forms.
Upfront medical exam (if required for your job or country of residence).
Police clearance certificate (if required).

2: Complete the Application Forms

The main form is either:
- IMM 1295: Application for Work Permit Made Outside of Canada.
- IMM 5710: Application to Change Conditions or Extend Your Stay in Canada (if applying from within Canada).
Fill out all forms with care and honesty.

3: Pay the Fees

Standard Work Permit fee: $155 CAD.
Open Work Permit Holder fee: $100 CAD (if applicable to your program).
Biometrics fee: $85 CAD per person (usually required).

4: Submit Your Application

Online (Strongly Recommended): Create an account on the IRCC portal. It’s relatively faster, allows you to track your status, and is more reliable.
Paper Application: Only in specific cases or for those with disabilities preventing online use.

5: Give Biometrics & Wait for Processing

After submitting, you will get a letter asking for your biometrics (fingerprints and photo). You have a maximum of 30 days to give them at a Visa Application Centre.
Processing times vary drastically based on country and program. Check current times on the IRCC website. Apply well in advance!

6: Decision & Next Steps

If Approved (Applying from Outside Canada): You will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. Present this to the Canada Border Services Agency officer when you arrive to receive your actual work permit.
If Approved (Applying from Inside Canada): You will receive your work permit in the mail.
If Refused: You will receive a letter explaining the reasons. You can often reapply if you address the issues.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Start Early: Research, document gathering, and processing times take much longer than you think.
Use the Official Tool: Begin your research with the IRCC’s “Come to Canada” tool. It’s the most reliable way to see your options.
Maintain Status: If applying to extend or change your permit from within Canada, submit your application before your current status expires. Don’t wait!
Beware of Fraud: Never pay a “guarantee” fee to an employer. Use only official IRCC websites (URLs end in .gc.ca).
Check and Double-Check: A simple mistake on a form or a missing document can cause months of delay or a refusal. Cross all T’s and handle your application with diligence.

Your Canadian Work Adventure Awaits

Obtaining a Canadian work visa is a process that requires patience, diligence, and careful attention to detail. The first and most crucial step is identifying the right program for your unique situation. From the youth-oriented IEC to the study-based PGWP and the skilled worker Express Entry pathways, Canada offers numerous doors for talented individuals.

Ready to take the next step?

Visit the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. It is your single most authoritative source for forms, guides, and updates.
Need More Help? Consider consulting a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) or an immigration lawyer for personalized advice, especially if your case is complex.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only, not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules change frequently. Always consult the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or a licensed immigration professional before making decisions.

Canadian Work Permit Is Easy If You Know These Steps

Work Permit vs. Visa – What’s the Difference?