Overview
For most people, a Canadian work permit is requested from outside Canada before starting work. Outland filing is especially common for employer-specific permits supported by an LMIA or an LMIA-exempt Employer Portal offer.
If you are already in Canada, first check whether inland filing is even allowed: Work Permit From Inside Canada.
Common situations
Job offer that needs an LMIA
Employer obtains a positive LMIA; you apply from abroad with the LMIA package and identity documents.
LMIA-exempt international agreement or IMP role
Employer submits the portal offer; you apply with the offer of employment number and supporting documents.
Hoping for an open work permit while overseas
IRCC states that most people applying from outside Canada cannot get an open work permit. Confirm whether your category is one of the limited exceptions or whether you must use a closed pathway (or apply inland later if eligible).
Need to enter Canada after approval
Approval of a work permit application does not replace entry requirements. Many applicants also need a TRV or eTA.
Typical outland steps
- Confirm the activity is work and identify the stream (closed LMIA, closed LMIA-exempt, or limited open category).
- Employer completes LMIA or Employer Portal steps when required.
- Gather identity documents, forms, and stream evidence.
- Apply online through IRCC from outside Canada (follow the instructions for your country).
- Give biometrics if required and complete medicals if required.
- After approval, ensure you have the travel document needed to enter Canada.
- Carry employer documents when travelling, as officers may ask for them at the port of entry.
Documents (high level)
Use the IRCC checklist for applying from outside Canada. Common items include:
- passport / travel document
- application forms and photos
- LMIA package or offer of employment number (closed permits)
- open-category proof only if an outland open category truly applies
- police/medical results when required
- family documents if dependents apply with you
See Work Permit Document Checklist.
Fees
| Fee | Current IRCC list (confirm live) |
|---|---|
| Work permit processing | $CAN 155 |
| Open work permit holder fee | $CAN 100 (most open cases) |
| Biometrics | Separate fee when required |
| Employer compliance (IMP) | $CAN 230 (employer; if applicable) |
ESDC LMIA fees are separate.
Outside Canada vs inside Canada
| Outside Canada | Inside Canada | |
|---|---|---|
| Who uses it | Most first-time workers | Only IRCC-listed inland situations |
| Open permits | Limited | Where most open applicants apply |
| Employer docs | Still required for closed permits | Still required for closed permits |
Common mistakes
- Flying to Canada as a visitor expecting to start work immediately
- Applying open from abroad when the category is inland-only
- Missing LMIA or portal offer numbers on closed applications
- Forgetting TRV/eTA requirements after work permit approval
- Starting work before the permit is issued / valid for that employer
When to get help
Get help if your nationality’s visa-office extras are complex, the LMIA vs exemption choice is unclear, dependents are applying with you, or a prior refusal exists.
Tamara can help check whether your file needs an LMIA package, an LMIA-exempt offer number, or a different pathway.
Related guides
This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.
Before you apply
- Confirmed open vs employer-specific pathway is available from abroad
- Employer completed LMIA or Employer Portal steps when required
- Gathered passport, forms, and employer/category documents
- Checked medical, police, and biometrics requirements
- Checked whether you also need a TRV or eTA
- Confirmed live IRCC fees before payment
Frequently asked questions
- Do I apply for the work permit before I fly?
- Usually yes for employer-specific work. Do not start work in Canada until you have the required authorization.
- Can I get an open work permit from outside Canada?
- Sometimes, but IRCC states most people applying from outside Canada cannot get an open work permit and most open applicants apply in Canada. Check your category.
- What employer documents do I need?
- For LMIA jobs: positive LMIA and offer documents. For LMIA-exempt jobs: offer of employment number and agreement when required.
- Is a work permit the same as a visa?
- No. A work permit authorizes work. Many nationals also need a temporary resident visa (TRV) or eTA to enter Canada.
- What is the fee from outside Canada?
- IRCC currently lists $CAN 155 for a work permit. Open cases usually add $CAN 100. Biometrics may also apply. Always re-check the fee list.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.
See also
References
- Get a work permit
- Open work permits
- How do I apply for an open work permit? (Help Centre 1361)
- Citizenship and immigration fees
- Work in Canada — work permits
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.