What is a Canadian work permit and who needs one?
A work permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows a foreign national to work in Canada. Most foreign nationals who want to work in Canada need either an employer-specific work permit or an open work permit, unless their occupation is exempt under the International Mobility Program.
What is the difference between an open work permit and an employer-specific work permit?
An open work permit allows you to work for almost any employer in Canada and is not tied to a specific job or employer. An employer-specific work permit restricts you to working for a named employer in a specific location and occupation. Open work permits are available to spouses of skilled workers, certain international graduates, and others.
What is an LMIA and when is it required?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document an employer in Canada may need to obtain before hiring a foreign worker. It shows that there is a need for a foreign worker and that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job. Not all work permits require an LMIA — positions under the International Mobility Program are exempt.
Can I apply for a Canadian work permit online without a consultant?
Yes. IRCC allows you to apply for most work permits online through the IRCC secure account at canada.ca/ircc. You do not need an immigration consultant. The process involves creating an account, completing the application form, uploading supporting documents, paying the processing fee, and submitting online.
What documents do I need to apply for a Canadian work permit?
Required documents typically include a valid passport, a job offer letter from a Canadian employer, proof of qualifications and work experience, an LMIA or LMIA exemption code if applicable, biometrics, and proof of financial support. Specific requirements vary depending on your country of citizenship and the type of work permit.
How much does it cost to apply for a Canadian work permit?
The standard work permit processing fee is CAD $155. If you are also applying for an open work permit, there is an additional open work permit holder fee of CAD $100. Biometrics cost CAD $85 for an individual or CAD $170 for a family. These fees are paid directly to IRCC online.
How long does it take to process a Canadian work permit application?
Processing times vary by country of citizenship and application type. As of 2025, online applications for employer-specific work permits can take four to sixteen weeks. You can check current processing times on the IRCC website. Applications submitted at the port of entry may be processed on arrival in some cases.
Can I work in Canada while waiting for my work permit application to be processed?
If you are already in Canada on a valid work permit and you applied to extend or change conditions before your current permit expired, you may be eligible to continue working under maintained status. If you are outside Canada, you generally cannot work until your new permit is issued.
What happens if my work permit application is refused?
If your application is refused, IRCC will send you a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You can reapply with additional supporting documents addressing the reasons for refusal, apply for a different type of permit, or request reconsideration through the IRCC webform. There is no formal appeal process for refused work permits.
How does uplaw.ai help with Canadian work permit applications?
Tell us your situation in the chat — your country of citizenship, your job offer details, and your current status in Canada. uplaw.ai will help you identify the right work permit type, the documents you need, and walk you through the IRCC online application process step by step.
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