Work Permits
Employer-specific and open work permits for foreign nationals
A work permit allows a foreign national to work legally in Canada for a specified period. Most work permits are employer-specific (closed), meaning the holder can only work for the employer named on the permit. Open work permits allow the holder to work for any eligible employer in Canada and are available in specific circumstances.
Program Streams
LMIA-Based Work Permit
Requires the employer to first obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), demonstrating that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the position.
LMIA-Exempt Work Permit
Certain categories are exempt from the LMIA requirement under international agreements (CUSMA/USMCA, CETA), intra-company transfers, or significant benefit to Canada. These include ICT workers, professionals under trade agreements, and others.
Open Work Permit
Available to spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students, recent graduates (Post-Graduation Work Permit), and certain vulnerable workers. Allows work with any eligible employer.
Work Permit Extension
Extending your work permit before it expires is critical to maintaining your legal status in Canada. We prepare and submit your extension application, ensure all supporting documents are in order, and advise on maintained status — which allows you to continue working under the same conditions while your renewal is pending, provided you applied before your permit expired.
Key Facts
- PGWP duration is tied to the length of the study program (up to 3 years)
- Spouses of Express Entry candidates in NOC TEER 0 or 1 may be eligible for an open work permit
- Work permit holders can often apply for PR while working in Canada
- Employer compliance is critical — violations can affect future LMIA applications
- Extensions must be filed before the current permit expires to maintain status