Ways to Get a Canada Work Permit

Getting a Canada work permit involves several steps, but understanding the options makes the process easier. A Canada work permit allows you to legally work in the country, whether temporarily or as a path to permanent residence.

Apply Through an Employer-Specific Work Permit
One common way to get a Canada work permit is through an employer-specific permit. This type of permit ties you to a single employer, job, and location. To apply, you usually need a job offer and a document called a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). An LMIA shows that the employer couldn’t find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill the position. After receiving the LMIA, you can apply for your permit. Some jobs are exempt from LMIA requirements, especially if they benefit Canadian interests.

Use the Open Work Permit Option
An open work permit is another way to work in Canada. Unlike an employer-specific permit, it lets you work for almost any employer. Open work permits are available in certain situations, such as if you’re the spouse of a skilled worker or international student, or a refugee claimant. You don’t need a job offer or LMIA to apply. This option gives more flexibility, especially for those already in Canada under another status.

Apply Through the International Mobility Program (IMP)
The International Mobility Program allows employers to hire foreign workers without needing an LMIA. This program covers a range of work permits, including those related to international agreements (like CUSMA), intra-company transfers, or significant benefit to Canada. If your work falls into these categories, you can apply for a Canada work permit under this program. It’s a faster and often simpler route than going through the LMIA process.

Use the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
If you’ve completed a program of study in Canada, the Post-Graduation Work Permit lets you stay and work temporarily. The PGWP is an open work permit available to graduates from eligible Canadian institutions. It allows you to gain valuable Canadian work experience, which can help if you plan to apply for permanent residency later. The length of the permit depends on the length of your study program.

Consider the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The Temporary Foreign Worker Program is a direct way to get a Canada work permit if you’ve received a valid job offer. This program requires employers to obtain an LMIA to show there is a need for a foreign worker. Once approved, you can apply for a work permit tied to that specific job. The TFWP covers various occupations, including seasonal agricultural work, caregiving, and construction roles.

Explore Work Permits Through Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Many provinces in Canada have their own nominee programs, which may include pathways to work permits. Some PNP streams let foreign workers apply for a work permit while waiting for permanent residency approval. These streams often focus on in-demand occupations in that province. If you qualify under a PNP and get a nomination, you can then apply for a Canada work permit.

Use the Global Talent Stream for Skilled Workers
The Global Talent Stream offers a fast-track process for certain highly skilled workers. This stream is part of the TFWP and allows employers in tech and other sectors to quickly bring in international talent. If you qualify under Category A (referral by a partner organization) or Category B (jobs on the Global Talent Occupations List), your work permit application may be processed in as little as two weeks.

Apply While Inside Canada
If you’re already in Canada as a student, visitor, or under another permit, you may be able to apply for a work permit from within the country. The eligibility depends on your current status and the type of work you want to do. In some cases, you must leave and apply from outside Canada, but in others, in-country applications are allowed and can be more convenient.