Types of Work Permits
Understanding your options for working in Canada
Employer-Specific Work Permit
Work for a specific employer in a specific location. Requires a job offer and usually an LMIA.
Ideal for: Most common for foreign workers with Canadian job offers
Open Work Permit
Work for any employer in Canada (with some exceptions). No job offer required.
Ideal for: PGWP holders, spouses of skilled workers, permanent residence applicants
LMIA-Exempt Work Permit
Some work permits don't require LMIA under international agreements (CUSMA, CETA, etc.).
Ideal for: Intra-company transfers, CUSMA professionals, international agreements
Bridging Open Work Permit
Maintain work authorization while awaiting permanent residence decision.
Ideal for: PR applicants whose work permits are expiring
Our Work Permit Services
LMIA Applications
Complete preparation and submission of Labour Market Impact Assessments for employers.
Work Permit Applications
End-to-end support for all types of Canadian work permits with thorough documentation.
Job Offer Review
Assessment of job offers to ensure compliance with IRCC and ESDC requirements.
Employer Compliance
Guidance on regulatory requirements, wage benchmarks, and recruitment efforts.
Family Applications
Support for spouse and dependent work/study permit applications.
Extensions & Renewals
Timely processing of work permit extensions and renewals to maintain legal status.
What is an LMIA?
Understanding the Labour Market Impact Assessment
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need before hiring a foreign worker. A positive LMIA shows that:
- •There is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job
- •No Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job
- •Hiring a foreign worker will have a positive or neutral effect on the Canadian labour market
High-Wage LMIA
For positions paying at or above the provincial/territorial median wage
- • Transition plan required
- • More stringent requirements
- • Often professional roles
Low-Wage LMIA
For positions paying below the provincial/territorial median wage
- • Cap on low-wage workers (20%)
- • Accommodation costs coverage
- • Often trades/labour roles