Work Permit

Canada enables foreign nationals to come and work in Canada under several work permit options. Most work permits need a job offer from a Canadian employer, while some require individuals to have a Canadian connection like education, refugee claim, or a spousal sponsorship.

There are two (2) types of work permits in Canada:

Employer-specific work permit: This is a work permit that is attached to one specific employer. It also requires an offer of employment attached to a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). 

Open work permit: This work permit allows an individual to work for any eligible employer in Canada. While it does not require an LMIA, only those in specific categories may be eligible. Some of these individuals may include, but are not limited to:

• An individual inside Canada who has been sponsored as a spouse/common-law or accompanying child,

• Dependent family member of an individual who has applied for permanent residence,

• Spouse/common-law of a skilled worker, student, or provincial nominee,

• Post-Graduation Work Permit holder,

• Bridging Open Work Permit holder,

• Refugee claimant, protected person or their family member.