Obtaining a work permit
in Canada
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A work permit is the document that authorizes a foreign national to take up employment in Canada. There are two main types: a work permit linked to a specific employer, which ties you to a particular job, and an open work permit, which allows you to work for almost any employer in the country.
The right choice depends on your job offer, your career history and, often, the steps your employer needs to take before you do. Choosing the wrong category can cost you months: it’s worth finding out right from the start which route is actually open to you.
Immigration rules change regularly. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For a personalized assessment of your situation, please schedule a consultation.
Under what circumstances do you need a work permit?
Working in Canada generally requires a work permit. Certain professional activities are exempt, but these exceptions are narrowly defined and are assessed on a case-by-case basis. Furthermore, an exemption from the work permit requirement does not replace the entry document required for your nationality.
The most important distinction remains that between the two types of work permits. A work permit linked to a specific employer specifies your employer, your role, and your place of work: your scope for manoeuvre is restricted. An open work permit offers greater flexibility, but it is not available to everyone: it applies only in specific circumstances.
There may be several criteria that apply, depending on your situation. We’ll work with you to determine which path best suits your circumstances before committing to anything.
What are the requirements for applying for a work permit?
The first step is not always your responsibility. Where the licence is linked to an employer, it is up to them to determine what the post requires and to take the necessary steps, both at federal and Quebec level. Some posts follow a different process, with their own specific conditions.
The first step is not always your responsibility. Where the licence is linked to an employer, it is up to them to determine what the post requires and to take the necessary steps, both at federal and Quebec level. Some posts follow a different process, with their own specific conditions.
It is the overall picture that determines the outcome, not any single piece of evidence. We build this case with you and, where necessary, coordinate the employer’s actions. A consultation enables us to assess your case in accordance with the current rules.
What other steps are required whilst your application is being processed?
Submitting an application does not mean the application is complete. Depending on the case, IRCC may request biometric data, additional documents or a medical examination, in each instance within a specific timeframe set out in its correspondence. If required by your nationality, the entry document is processed in parallel.
Once you are in work, there are two situations that require swift action: changing jobs or employers when your work permit is linked to a specific employer, and extending your stay. In both cases, what is possible depends very much on when you take action. Starting a new job without checking what your work permit allows may have serious consequences for your status.
We will arrange for an extension before your current permit expires. Once this deadline has passed, your options become more limited and uncertain. We will monitor the situation and respond to IRCC on your behalf, including in relation to a letter regarding procedural fairness.
Support tailored to your circumstances
Assessment of your situation
We analyse your profile and career plans to identify the most suitable immigration options.
Guidance through the process
We support you in preparing and submitting your work permit application.
Support for employers
Canadian employers can also benefit from advice on the procedures involved in recruiting foreign workers.
Personalised support
You receive clear and professional support throughout the process.
Our team
Alice mardelet-santamaria
Avocate et fondatrice du cabinet
Chloé yin
Chartered Canadian Immigration Consultant (CRIC)
Our areas of practice
Ce que nos clients nous demandent le plus souvent.
It depends on the type of permit. A permit linked to a specific employer requires a job offer; an open work permit does not. The choice depends on your circumstances and those of the employer.
In many cases, the employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before hiring. Exemptions do exist, notably under the International Mobility program. It is essential to check this before starting the recruitment process.
A work permit linked to a specific employer does not allow you to change jobs freely; you will usually need to go through the application process again. The procedures vary depending on the type of permit you hold: a consultation will enable us to assess your case in accordance with the current rules.
Certain activities may be carried out without a work permit, in cases specified by the regulations. It is rarely clear whether a particular activity falls within this category; it is advisable to check this before departure.
There are ways to work after completing a Canadian study program. Eligibility depends on the institution, the program and the type of permit held, and the rules change regularly.
Immigration rules change regularly. The information presented here is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For a personalized assessment of your situation, please schedule a consultation.
Votre avenir au Canada commence ici.
Every immigration journey is unique. Our team offers you personalized, thorough and compassionate support to help you move forward with confidence at every stage of your journey.
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