If you’re looking to work in Canada quickly, some work permit programs offer faster processing times than others. Here are the fastest ways to get a Canadian work permit.
1. Global Talent Stream (GTS) – Processing Time: 2 Weeks
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is designed for employers hiring highly skilled foreign workers in tech and specialized fields. This is one of the fastest work permit programs in Canada.
Eligibility:
- You must have a job offer in a high-demand tech or specialized occupation (e.g., IT professionals, software engineers).
- Your employer must be approved for GTS LMIA processing.
Processing Time: 2 weeks for most applications.
2. Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) – Processing Time: 2 to 8 Weeks
If you work for a multinational company with a Canadian branch, you may be eligible for an Intra-Company Transfer (ICT) Work Permit without needing an LMIA.
Eligibility:
- You must have been working with the company for at least one year.
- The job in Canada must be executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge.
Processing Time: 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the country of application.
3. CUSMA Work Permit (for U.S. and Mexican Citizens) – Processing Time: 1 to 4 Weeks
Under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), professionals from the U.S. and Mexico can apply for a work permit without an LMIA.
Eligibility:
- Must be a U.S. or Mexican citizen.
- Must work in one of the approved professions (e.g., accountants, engineers, IT specialists).
Processing Time: 1 to 4 weeks, depending on the visa office.
4. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – Processing Time: 1 to 3 Months
International students who graduate from eligible Canadian institutions can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada without an LMIA.
Eligibility:
- Must have completed a full-time study program of at least 8 months.
- Must apply within 180 days of graduation.
Processing Time: 1 to 3 months.
5. Francophone Mobility Program – Processing Time: 2 to 8 Weeks
French-speaking skilled workers outside Quebec can apply for a work permit under the Francophone Mobility Program. This is LMIA-exempt, making it a faster option.
Eligibility:
- Must speak French fluently.
- Must have a job offer outside Quebec in a skilled occupation.
Processing Time: 2 to 8 weeks.
6. Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) – Processing Time: 4 to 12 Weeks
If your spouse or common-law partner is working or studying in Canada, you may be eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP), which does not require a job offer or LMIA.
Eligibility:
- Your spouse must be a temporary foreign worker or international student.
- You must be in a genuine relationship and provide supporting documents.
Processing Time: 4 to 12 weeks.
7. International Experience Canada (IEC) – Processing Time: 4 to 8 Weeks
The IEC Work Permit allows young adults from over 30 eligible countries to work in Canada temporarily under Working Holiday, Young Professionals, or Co-op Internship programs.
Eligibility:
- Must be 18-35 years old (age limit depends on country).
- Must be from an eligible country (e.g., UK, France, Germany, Australia).
Processing Time: 4 to 8 weeks.
Fastest Work Permit Option: Global Talent Stream (GTS)
If you qualify, the Global Talent Stream is the fastest, with a 2-week processing time.