There are two main categories of work permits issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): employer-specific work permits and open work permits. Each type has different eligibility criteria and limitations. Choosing the correct one is essential for staying compliant with immigration regulations.
Employer-Specific Work Permits (also known as Closed Work Permits)
These permits are tied to a single employer and a specific job offer. You must work only for the employer listed on your permit, at the location and under the conditions approved by IRCC.
To obtain this type of permit, most applicants require:
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), unless exempt.
An LMIA confirms that there are no qualified Canadians or permanent residents available for the position. It is the employer’s responsibility to apply for and receive this document before hiring a foreign worker.
Key points:
- You cannot change employers without applying for a new work permit.
- The employer must meet IRCC and ESDC standards, including offering fair wages and safe working conditions.
Examples: Work permits under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), such as for agricultural workers, caregivers, or tradespeople.
Open Work Permits
Open work permits are not job-specific. They allow you to work for most employers in Canada without needing a job offer or an LMIA. However, there are still restrictions: you cannot work for employers who are ineligible under IRCC or in occupations that require a medical exam unless one has been completed.
Who is eligible for open work permits:
- Spouses or common-law partners of international students or skilled foreign workers
- Recent graduates of eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions (Post-Graduation Work Permit)
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) holders who are waiting for PR application results
- Certain refugee claimants and vulnerable workers
Open work permits provide more flexibility but are only available under specific programs or situations.
LMIA-Exempt, Employer-Specific Permits
Not all employer-specific permits require an LMIA. Under the International Mobility Program (IMP), some foreign workers may receive employer-specific permits without the employer needing to prove labour shortages.
Common LMIA-exempt examples include:
- Intra-company transferees
- Professionals under international agreements (e.g., CUSMA/NAFTA)
- Workers hired through the Francophone Mobility Program
- Individuals whose employment is considered a “significant benefit” to Canada
Final Note
Always review the conditions printed on your work permit. It will state:
- The employer you are allowed to work for (if applicable)
- Any job restrictions
- Whether the work is location-specific
Violating the terms of your work permit can impact your immigration status and future applications. If your job or situation changes, seek legal advice or consult IRCC guidelines before taking action.
