Canada offers various types of work permits depending on the applicant’s qualifications, job offer, and immigration status. Understanding these options can help you determine which permit suits your situation.
1. Employer-Specific Work Permit
This permit allows you to work only for a specific employer under the conditions stated on the permit. Requirements include:
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in most cases.
- Employer compliance with immigration laws.
2. Open Work Permit
Unlike employer-specific permits, an open work permit lets you work for any employer in Canada (with some exceptions). Common open work permits include:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – For international students who graduate from a Canadian institution.
- Spousal Open Work Permit – For spouses of temporary foreign workers or international students.
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) – For those waiting for permanent residency approval.
3. International Mobility Program (IMP) Work Permits
These work permits do not require an LMIA and are issued under agreements that benefit Canada economically or culturally. Examples include:
- Intra-Company Transfers – For employees transferred within multinational companies.
- NAFTA/CUSMA Work Permits – For professionals from the U.S. or Mexico.
- Francophone Mobility Program – For French-speaking professionals working outside Quebec.
4. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Work Permits
This program requires a positive LMIA, proving no Canadian worker is available for the job. It applies to:
- High-wage and low-wage workers.
- Seasonal Agricultural Workers.
- Caregivers for children, elderly, or people with medical needs.
5. Work Permits for Permanent Residence Applicants
Some immigration pathways allow candidates to work while waiting for PR approval, including:
- Canada Experience Class (CEC) – For skilled workers with Canadian experience.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Applicants – For those nominated by a province.