A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document an employer may need from Employment and Social Development Canada showing that hiring a foreign worker is justified. Not every route requires one.

Can my spouse work if I hold a work permit?

Spousal open work permit eligibility depends on your occupation, permit type and current policy, which has been narrowed at times.

Can I change employers?

With an employer-specific permit, a new permit is generally required before starting with a different employer.

Does work experience in Canada help with permanent residence?

Qualifying Canadian work experience is relevant to several economic programs, but eligibility depends on the specific program criteria.

Diverse professionals collaborating in a bright modern Canadian workplace

Temporary residence

Work Permits

Work permits come in many forms. Choosing the right route depends on your job offer, your employer, and your longer-term plans.

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Overview

What this pathway involves

Canadian work permits generally fall into two categories. Employer-specific permits tie you to a named employer, role and often a location. Open work permits allow you to work for most employers, subject to conditions.

Many employer-specific permits require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) obtained by the employer. Others are LMIA-exempt under international agreements, intra-company transfer provisions, or programs that serve a broader Canadian interest.

Open work permits may be available in certain situations, including some spousal applications, post-graduation work, and specific transitional measures. Availability depends on current policy.

Who it may suit

This route is often considered by

Candidates with a Canadian job offer who need to understand the correct route
Employers and applicants navigating LMIA-based hiring
Intra-company transferees and professionals under international agreements
Graduates considering post-graduation work options
Spouses and partners exploring open work permit eligibility

Key considerations

Things worth knowing early

Employer compliance obligations

Employers carry real obligations regarding wages, conditions and record keeping, and may be subject to inspection.

Permit conditions are binding

Working outside the conditions of a permit can affect your status and future applications. Changes in employer or role often require a new application.

Timelines and status maintenance

Extensions should be filed before expiry. Maintained status rules are specific and should not be assumed.

A work permit is temporary

Holding a work permit does not by itself create permanent residence. Where permanent residence is the goal, the pathway should be planned early.

Process

How we work through it with you

Route assessment
We review your offer, occupation and background to identify which permit categories may realistically apply.
Employer coordination
Where relevant, we outline what the employer must provide, including LMIA or offer of employment steps.
Application preparation
We assemble your application with consistent evidence of qualifications, experience and admissibility.
Arrival and next steps
We explain conditions attached to your permit and discuss any longer-term permanent residence planning.

FAQs

Work Permits questions

Please note: The information on this website is general in nature and is not legal advice. Immigration programs, criteria and processing times are set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and provincial authorities, and can change without notice. Eligibility always depends on current government rules and your individual circumstances. No outcome, approval or processing time can be guaranteed by any representative.

Ready to understand your options?

Book an appointment and get a clear, honest read on the pathways that may fit your profile — with no promises about outcomes, only careful guidance.

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