Overview
This guide is a map of Canadian work permit requirements—not a substitute for stream-specific IRCC instructions. Work authorization in Canada is category-driven: the right pathway depends on your job, employer, nationality, and current status.
Common situations
Job offer from a Canadian employer
Often an employer-specific work permit. Many cases need an LMIA unless an exemption (for example certain international agreements or IMP streams) applies.
Open work permit (spouse, PGWP, other categories)
Open permits are limited to IRCC-listed categories. Eligibility is narrow—do not assume marriage or study alone creates an open permit.
International student wanting to work
Student work is often authorized through study permit conditions (on/off campus) or a co-op work permit, not a standard employer LMIA pathway. See Study cluster guides.
Extending or changing jobs
Changing employers on a closed permit usually requires a new authorization. Working outside the permit conditions risks non-compliance.
Do you need a work permit?
IRCC’s starting point: most foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada. Limited exemptions exist (business visitors, some athletes, etc.). Read the official exemption list before relying on one.
Employer-specific vs open
| Type | Typical features |
|---|---|
| Employer-specific | Named employer, location, occupation; often LMIA or IMP offer |
| Open | Work for almost any employer; only for eligible categories |
LMIA basics
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is often required before an employer can hire a temporary foreign worker on an employer-specific permit. Some streams are LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program. The employer and employee paperwork differ by stream.
Employer-specific, open, LMIA, and LMIA-exempt pathways differ. Tamara can help you map your job offer to IRCC categories.
Documents and fees (high level)
Exact checklists depend on the stream, but applicants commonly need:
- passport / identity documents
- application forms and photos
- employer offer documents / LMIA or exemption proof when required
- proof of status if applying inland
- biometrics and medical exams when required
Confirm fees on IRCC’s fee list for your permit type and any open-work-permit holder fee that may apply to employers in some cases.
Application steps (generic)
- Confirm the activity is work and identify the stream.
- Confirm LMIA vs LMIA-exempt pathway with the employer if applicable.
- Gather the IRCC checklist for that stream.
- Apply online (or as instructed) and enroll biometrics if required.
- Do not start work until authorized (unless a specific IRCC rule allows it).
Common mistakes
- Starting work on visitor status
- Using student off-campus rules for a full-time permanent job after graduation without a PGWP
- Changing employers on a closed permit without new authorization
- Assuming spouse open work permits are automatic
- Ignoring medical or police requirements for certain occupations
Related guides
- PGWP Eligibility
- How to Apply for a PGWP
- Work Off Campus as an International Student
- Maintained Status for Students
This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.
Before you apply
- Confirmed whether your activity is ‘work’ under IRCC rules
- Identified open vs employer-specific pathway
- Checked whether an LMIA or LMIA exemption applies
- Gathered passport, forms, and employer documents if required
- Reviewed medical/biometrics requirements
- Confirmed fees on IRCC’s fee list
Frequently asked questions
- Do I always need a work permit to work in Canada?
- Most people do. IRCC lists limited work-without-a-permit situations. Do not assume an exemption without reading the official list.
- What is the difference between open and employer-specific permits?
- An employer-specific permit ties you to a named employer and usually job details. An open work permit lets you work for almost any employer, subject to conditions.
- What is an LMIA?
- A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a decision by Employment and Social Development Canada that a foreign worker is needed. Many employer-specific permits require a positive LMIA unless exempt.
- Is a PGWP a work permit?
- Yes. A post-graduation work permit is a type of open work permit for eligible graduates. See our PGWP guides.
- Can visitors work while waiting for a work permit?
- Generally no. Working without authorization is a serious violation. Some inland bridging scenarios exist for specific statuses—confirm on IRCC.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.
See also
References
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.