💼 Want to work in Canada? Here’s your guide to getting a work permit!

Canada's thriving job market presents exciting opportunities, but you’ll need a work permit to get started. This guide walks you through the types of permits, the application process, eligibility requirements, and timelines.

Step 1: Understand the Types of Work Permits

Canada offers two main types of work permits:

• Employer-Specific Work Permit: Tied to a specific job and employer. You’ll need a job offer from a Canadian employer, and in many cases, a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) which shows that hiring a foreign worker won’t negatively impact the Canadian job market.

• Open Work Permit: Allows you to work for any employer in Canada (with some restrictions). You don’t need a job offer or an LMIA for this permit, but eligibility is limited to certain categories, such as spouses of skilled workers, students, or applicants under the International Mobility Program.

To determine the best fit for your situation, visit the Government of Canada’s Work Permit page​(Canada.ca).

Step 2: Check Your Eligibility

Eligibility depends on factors like the type of work permit and your country of residence. For an employer-specific permit, ensure your employer can obtain an LMIA if required. For open work permits, specific eligibility requirements vary depending on your circumstances, such as being a recent graduate from a Canadian post-secondary institution or a family member of someone working in Canada.

Learn more about the criteria on Canada Visa’s guide to work permits​(Canada.ca).

Step 3: Apply for Your Work Permit

Online Application:

1. Gather Required Documents: These include your passport, a job offer (for employer-specific permits), proof of qualifications, language test results, and, if applicable, your LMIA approval.

2. Create an Account on the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada) Portal​(CanadianVisa.org).

3. Complete the Application Form (such as IMM 1295 for those outside Canada) and submit your documents electronically.

4. Pay the Application Fee: CA$155 for most work permits, with an additional CA$100 if you’re applying for an open work permit​(
   Global Citizen Solutions).

Processing Time: This can vary from a few weeks to several months, depending on the type of permit and your country. To check current processing times, visit IRCC’s processing time page.

Step 4: Biometrics and Medical Examination

Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide biometrics and complete a medical examination. You can book your biometrics appointment at a Visa Application Center and arrange for a medical exam with an approved panel physician if required.

Check if biometrics are needed for your application on Canada’s Biometrics page.

Step 5: Receive Your Work Permit

If your application is approved, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction, which you must present when you arrive in Canada. The final decision on your entry is made by the border officer.

This is just a starting point, and the work permit process can vary. For a complete and personalized guide, explore CanadianVisa.org and Global Citizen Solutions for additional insights.