Work Permit From Inside Canada

Overview

Applying for a work permit from inside Canada is not the default path. IRCC’s inland pages state that most people cannot apply inland. You must fit a published situation—then still meet the rules for an open or employer-specific permit.

If you are outside Canada, see Work Permit From Outside Canada.

Common situations

Valid study or work permit holder

Many students and workers can apply inland to change conditions, extend, or (in some cases) obtain a new permit type—subject to stream rules (for example PGWP timing).

Spouse or family member of a permit holder

Some family situations allow inland filing. Relationship proof and the principal applicant’s status both matter.

PGWP while study permit still valid

Eligible graduates often apply inland. Confirm PGWP eligibility before you rely on this path.

Visitor with a new job offer

Do not assume inland filing is available. Check IRCC’s current inland eligibility list. Expired temporary policies should not be treated as permanent rules.

Who may apply inland (high level)

IRCC’s inland eligibility page lists situations such as (paraphrased—confirm live text):

• you have a valid work or study permit
• your spouse/partner or parents have a valid work permit, or you/your spouse/partner/parents have a valid study permit
• you are eligible for a PGWP and your study permit is still valid
• certain permanent residence applicants/family situations in Canada
• Convention refugees / protected persons, refugee claimants, or certain TRP holders
• some CUSMA traders/investors/transferees/professionals
• other listed circumstances

If you are not on the list, plan an outside Canada application (or another lawful option).

Documents and employer proof

Inland applicants still need stream documents:

• LMIA path: positive LMIA, job offer letter, contract (and CAQ if required)
• LMIA-exempt path: offer of employment number and agreement when required
• Open path: category eligibility proof

Plus proof of your current status in Canada and identity documents. Use IRCC’s inland forms/documents checklist.

Fees

IRCC currently lists:

• Work permit: $CAN 155
• Open work permit holder fee: $CAN 100 in most open cases

Employers may owe ESDC LMIA fees or the IRCC compliance fee separately. Confirm live amounts before payment.

Application steps

1. Confirm you meet an inland eligibility situation.
2. Confirm open vs closed, and LMIA vs LMIA-exempt.
3. Gather status, identity, and employer/category documents.
4. Apply through your IRCC account using the inland worker process.
5. Do not work beyond what your current authorization allows while waiting.

Common mistakes

• Assuming any visitor with a job offer can apply inland
• Filing inland when the correct channel is outside Canada
• Missing LMIA/portal documents on a closed inland application
• Working without authorization while an application is pending
• Ignoring study-permit or PGWP timing rules

When to get help

Get advice if your inland eligibility is borderline, status is near expiry, or you must choose between leaving Canada to apply and remaining under another status.

Related guides

• Work Permit From Outside Canada
• Work Permit Document Checklist
• Employer-Specific Work Permit
• Open Work Permit Canada

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

Before you apply

• Confirmed you meet an IRCC inland eligibility situation
• Checked open vs employer-specific requirements for your case
• Gathered status documents for your current stay in Canada
• Obtained LMIA/portal offer or open-category proof
• Reviewed medical/biometrics needs
• Confirmed live IRCC fees before payment

Frequently asked questions

Can visitors apply for a work permit from inside Canada?

Generally no under the standard inland eligibility list. Temporary public policies have existed in the past with expiry dates—do not assume a visitor-to-worker inland option is available without checking current IRCC rules.

Can I extend or change conditions inland?

Many people with valid worker status apply inland to extend or change conditions. Initial permits are more restricted. Follow Guide 5553 / IRCC inland instructions for your situation.

What form is used inland?

IRCC’s inland worker applications commonly use IMM 5710 (online/account process). Confirm the current forms and checklist in your IRCC account.

What is the fee?

IRCC currently lists $CAN 155 for a work permit. Most open permits also require $CAN 100. Always re-check before you pay.

Can I work while the inland application is processing?

Only if a specific maintained-status or bridging rule applies to your filing. Do not start unauthorized work. Confirm on IRCC for your status type.

Is this legal advice?

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

See also

• Work Permit From Outside Canada
• Work Permit Document Checklist
• Open Work Permit Canada

References

1. Work permit: Apply from inside Canada – Eligibility
2. Work permit documents (inside Canada)
3. Guide 5553 – Applying for a work permit inside Canada
4. Citizenship and immigration fees
5. How do I apply for an open work permit? (Help Centre 1361)

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.