Change Jobs on a Closed Work Permit

Overview

An employer-specific (closed) work permit ties you to the employer, occupation, and often the location named on the document. Wanting a better job is normal—starting that job without new authorization is not.

This guide covers the high-level IRCC rules for changing jobs or employers on a closed permit.

Common situations

New employer with an LMIA-ready offer

The new employer obtains a positive LMIA (if required), you apply for a new work permit, and you wait for approval—or for any separate early-work authorization IRCC may grant under a public policy.

New employer under an LMIA exemption

The new employer submits an Employer Portal offer and compliance fee (when required). You apply with the new offer number. See Employer Portal & Compliance Fee.

Same employer, substantially different job

Major changes to duties, wages, or location can also require a new authorization—not only a full employer change.

Open work permit holder considering a move

Open permits usually allow employer changes without a new permit (subject to conditions and expiry). Different rules apply.

Default IRCC rule

If you have an employer-specific work permit and want to change jobs or employers in Canada, you must apply for a new work permit (if eligible).

You generally cannot start the new job until:

• IRCC approves the new work permit with the new conditions, or
• you request and receive authorization to work while waiting under IRCC’s temporary public policy for changing employment (when that policy is in force and you meet its conditions)

Maintained status vs new-employer work

If you apply to change employers before your current permit expires:

• You may maintain status and remain in Canada while waiting
• Authorization to keep working usually continues under your original employer / job / location conditions
• It does not automatically authorize the new employer

Do not confuse “I applied” with “I can start the new job.”

High-level steps

1. Secure a real offer and confirm LMIA vs LMIA-exempt pathway with the new employer.
2. Ensure the employer completes LMIA or Employer Portal requirements.
3. Apply online to change conditions / get a new employer-specific permit.
4. If eligible, follow IRCC’s instructions to request interim work authorization (including any required web-form priority code and attestations on the live page).
5. Wait for approval or written interim authorization before starting.
6. Keep working for the old employer only if that remains lawful and practical for you.

Common mistakes

• Starting the new job on day one of the application
• Assuming maintained status equals open work
• Resigning with no bridge plan if interim authorization is refused or delayed
• Applying without a valid LMIA or portal offer number
• Ignoring substantial same-employer job changes that still need a new permit

Related guides

• Employer Portal & Compliance Fee
• Work Permit Requirements
• PGWP Expiring: Work Permit Options
• Spousal Open Work Permit for Workers

This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.

Before you apply

• Confirmed the new employer’s LMIA or LMIA-exempt portal offer is in place
• Applied for a new employer-specific work permit with the correct offer / LMIA details
• Reviewed whether you can request authorization to work while waiting under IRCC’s public policy
• Avoided starting the new job until authorized
• Tracked the expiry date of your current permit and maintained-status implications
• Kept proof of application submission for employers / banks as needed

Frequently asked questions

Can I start the new job as soon as I apply?

Not by default. IRCC’s general rule is that you wait for the new permit—or for written authorization under a temporary public policy if you qualify and request it correctly.

What if my current permit expires while the new application is processing?

If you applied before expiry, you may have maintained status. For closed permits, that usually means continuing under the old employer/job/location conditions—not switching to the new employer automatically.

Do open work permit holders need a new permit to change jobs?

Usually no, unless the open permit is expiring or has conditions that restrict employment. This guide focuses on closed permits.

Who files the LMIA or Employer Portal offer?

The new Canadian employer. Workers should not assume a verbal offer is enough for IRCC.

Can I quit my current job before the new permit arrives?

You can leave employment, but you may then have no lawful work until the new authorization is in place. Plan income and status carefully.

Is this legal advice?

No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.

See also

• Employer Portal & Compliance Fee
• Work Permit Requirements
• PGWP Expiring: Work Permit Options

References

1. Changing jobs or employers
2. Who can apply to extend or change work permit conditions
3. What to do if your work permit expires or is expiring
4. Temporary public policy — changing employment

Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on your facts and IRCC’s assessment. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.