A work permit is an official document that allows a non-citizen to work legally in Canada. Each year, Canada issues about half a million work permits to temporary foreign workers worldwide. The country remains one of the most popular destinations for professionals seeking employment opportunities and permanent residency.

Who Can Work in Canada?

Most foreign nationals require a work permit, but a few exceptions apply. Generally, candidates must have:

• A valid job offer

• A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (unless exempt)

To qualify, applicants must also:

• Prove they will leave Canada when the permit expires

• Show they have enough funds to support themselves and their family

• Have no criminal record and pass background checks

• Be in good health (medical exam may be required)

• Intend to work for an eligible employer

• Provide all required documents when requested

Types of Work Permits in Canada

Canada offers different types of work permits based on job offers, LMIA requirements, and personal circumstances.

1. LMIA-Required Work Permits

• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

• Facilitated LMIA (Quebec)

• Global Talent Stream

2. LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (Need Job Offer or Contract)

• International Mobility Program (IMP)

• NAFTA/USMCA Work Permits

• CETA Work Permits

• Intra-Company Transfers

3. Open Work Permits (No LMIA or Job Offer Needed)

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

• Spousal Open Work Permit

• International Experience Canada (IEC) – Working Holiday

• Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

Permanent residents can live and work in Canada without a work permit.

How to Get a Work Permit in Canada

The process varies depending on the type of permit.

Two Main Categories

• Closed Work Permit – tied to one employer

• Open Work Permit – work for any employer

Most closed permits require:

• A job offer

• LMIA approval

International students often get work authorization automatically with their study permit.

Does a Job Offer Make You Eligible Automatically?

Not always. A job offer must be:

• LMIA-approved, or

• LMIA-exempt

Quebec has its own system for validating job offers.

What You Can Do With a Work Permit

Your permit will mention:

• Type of work allowed

• Employer name

• Location of work

• Duration of stay

Workers cannot work for employers involved in exploitation and must leave Canada when their permit expires unless they apply for permanent residency.

Can I Bring My Spouse and Children?

Yes, in most cases.

• Spouse/partner can apply for an open work permit

• Children can study in Canada without separate study permits (if they are already in Canada)

Cost of a Work Permit

• Closed Work Permit: CAD $155 per person

• Open Work Permit: CAD $255 per person

• Additional charges apply for renewals and group applications.

Required Documents

Depending on the category, you may need:

• Completed application forms

• Passport & ID copies

• Family status proof (marriage/birth certificates)

• LMIA (if required)

• Written job offer

• Resume/CV

• Quebec CAQ (if applicable)

• Proof of educational credentials

• Medical exam results

• Police clearance

• Proof of funds

• Payment receipt

• Biometrics

• Passport-size photos

Police Clearance

Applicants may need police certificates for any country they lived in for 6+ months after age 18.

Medical Exam Requirements

A medical exam is required if:

• You lived/traveled in certain countries for 6+ months

• You will work in health care, childcare, or other close-contact roles

• You will stay in Canada for more than 6 months

Only IRCC-approved panel physicians can perform the exam.

Processing Time

It depends on:

• Permit type

• Country of residence

Processing may take weeks to months.

LMIA Processing Time

• Regular LMIA: Around 5 months

• Global Talent Stream: Much faster (usually weeks)

• Quebec facilitated LMIA: 2–3 months

Why Applications Get Rejected

Common reasons:

• Officer doubts your ability to do the job

• Officer is not satisfied you’ll leave after the permit expires

• Missing documents or eligibility criteria not met

You can request GCMS notes to understand the reason for refusal.

Checking Your Application Status

• Online applicants: check through IRCC account

• Paper applicants: link paper application to online account

Bringing Family Members

Spouse/partner must submit their own application for an open work permit. Children can accompany you.

How to Activate Your Work Permit

If Applied Inside Canada

• Receive approval letter

• Permit arrives by mail and becomes active immediately

If Applied Outside Canada

• Receive a Letter of Introduction

• Present it at the Port of Entry (POE) to receive work permit

If Applying at Border

• Submit required documents

• Officer prints the work permit immediately (if approved)

Finding a Job in Canada

Tips:

• Use online job portals (Job Bank, Indeed, LinkedIn)

• Prepare a Canadian-style resume

• Clean up and optimize your social media profiles

• Identify your NOC code

Benefits of Working in Canada

• Strong labour laws ensuring fair treatment

• Competitive wages

• Spouse and children can accompany

• Canadian work experience boosts PR eligibility through:

  • Express Entry (CEC, FSW, FST)

  • Provincial Nominee Programs

  • Quebec Programs

  • Atlantic Immigration Pilot

Summary

• Canada issues 500,000+ work permits each year

• Great pathway to permanent residency

• Most permits require LMIA or job offer

• Several categories: LMIA, LMIA-exempt, Open permits

• Spouses and children can accompany

• Strong job market, good wages, and worker protection

FAQs

Where is my work permit number located?

Top right corner, starting with “U”.

Can I work in Canada without a work permit?

Mostly no, except for a few exempt categories.

Do I need a job offer?

Usually yes, unless applying for an open work permit.

Minimum age?

At least 18 years, except IEC program with different age limits.

Can I get health insurance?

Eligibility depends on the province; most require a waiting period.

Work permit vs. visa?

• Work permit: Allows you to work

• Visa (TRV): Allows you to enter Canada

Do I need IELTS?

Not required unless employer specifically requests language proof.

How long is a work permit valid?

Usually 1–2 years, but varies.

Can an employer sponsor me?

They can support you by providing LMIA or LMIA-exempt job offer, but not “sponsor” like PR.