Work Permit

Work Permits in Canada: Your Guide to Working Legally

What Is a Work Permit?

A work permit is an official document issued under Canada’s Temporary Resident framework (IMM 1442). It authorizes foreign nationals to work in Canada legally. It specifies what type of work you can do, for whom, where, and for how long—up to 5 years.

Most foreign workers need a work permit unless exempt under special provisions.

Types of Work Permits

1. Employer-Specific Work Permit

• Limits you to a specific employer, workplace, duration, and role as detailed on the permit.
• Requires either a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an offer of employment number (for LMIA-exempt positions via the Employer Portal).

2. Open Work Permit

• Allows work for almost any employer in Canada, excluding those on a compliance-violation list or offering erotic services.
• Available only under specific scenarios such as:
  • Post-graduation (PGWP)
  • Open permits during permanent residence processing
  • Spouses of certain international students or workers

Who Can Apply?

• From Outside Canada: Almost anyone—application begins before entry.
• From Within Canada: Only eligible in special cases—e.g. you are:
  • A current permit holder (student or worker),
  • A spouse of a permit holder,
  • A refugee claimant or PR applicant,
  • A CUSMA intra-company transferee, trader, or investor.

How to Apply

1. Online Only—both initial applications and extensions must be filed through an IRCC account.
2. Complete a Personalized Document Checklist via IRCC tools.
3. Pay Fees:
   • Standard work permit fee: $155
   • Open work permit holder fee (if applicable): $100

Important Requirements & Conditions

• Eligibility Criteria:
  • Must satisfy IRCC that you’ll leave Canada at the end of authorized stay, have a clean record, good health, and aren’t working for ineligible employers.
• Special Programs:
  • Atlantic Immigration Program—temporary work permits for those with a job offer, referral letter, and employer-submitted offer of employment. Valid for 2 years.
• Special Public Policy—Study While You Work:
  • If you had a valid work permit or extension application submitted before June 7, 2023, you may study without a permit until June 27, 2026.

After You Apply

• Switching Jobs on Employer-Specific Permits: As of May 27, 2025, you can change jobs or occupations even while your new work permit is being processed, thanks to a temporary policy.
• Processing Delays & Status Risks: Backlogs—especially for LMIAs—have led to workers losing legal status, affecting healthcare access and job security.
• New Restrictions: In 2024, Canada announced limits to work permit eligibility for spouses of some temporary residents, as part of overall reductions in temporary migration.
• Apply Early: Always submit your renewal or change requests at least 30 days before your current permit expires.

Quick Summary Table

Why Choose True Pearl Visa Services Inc.?

Let us guide you through the work permit process:

• Identify the right permit type (employer-specific, open, PR-related)
• Assist with application forms, documents, and fees
• Advise on special programs like Atlantic or study-permit exemptions
• Help navigate renewals, job changes, and status restoration
• Alert you to policy updates, processing delays, and strategic timing