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Work permits

Canadian Canada Work Permit

The document that allows you to work in Canada. A work permit is a permit rather than an entry visa, so it may need to be paired with the right travel document.

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Important information

Immigration rules and fees can change. This information is for general guidance only and does not constitute legal advice. Always check the latest requirements on the official Canada government website before you apply.
On this page
Official name
Work Permit
Route type
Work permit
Validity
For the period stated on your permit
An employer-specific permit is valid only for the employer, job and location it names.
Cost
CAN$155 work permit processing fee
If it is an open work permit, an additional CAN$100 Open Work Permit Holder fee also applies. A CAN$85 biometrics fee may apply.
Where to apply
Usually online through an IRCC secure account
Can be applied for from outside Canada, from inside Canada, or on entry in limited cases.
Work authorised
Under the conditions printed on the permit
An employer-specific permit lists the employer, occupation, location and any conditions.

Who can apply

  • Foreign nationals authorised to work in Canada

What you can do

  • Work in Canada under the conditions stated on your permit

Requirements

  • Prove to an officer that you will leave Canada when your work permit expires
  • Show you have enough money to support yourself and any family members during your stay and to return home
  • Obey the law and have no record of criminal activity (you may need a police clearance certificate)
  • Not intend to work for an ineligible employer, and be admissible to Canada (a medical exam may be required)
  • For an employer-specific permit, have a job offer supported either by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment number

How to apply

  • Confirm which type of work permit you need (open or employer-specific) and whether your job needs an LMIA
  • Get the documents your employer must provide — for an employer-specific permit this includes a copy of the LMIA and Annex A, or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment number and receipt
  • Create or sign in to your IRCC secure account and complete the work permit application online
  • Pay the CAN$155 fee (plus the CAN$100 Open Work Permit Holder fee if applicable) and the biometrics fee if required
  • Give your biometrics if instructed, then submit and wait for a decision

Documents you may need

  • A valid passport
  • A copy of your LMIA and Annex A, or your LMIA-exempt offer of employment number and receipt (employer-specific permits)
  • A copy of your job offer or employment contract
  • Proof of funds to support yourself in Canada
  • Police clearance certificate(s), if requested
  • Results of an upfront medical exam, if required for your job or country
  • Photographs meeting IRCC specifications

Frequently asked questions

  • No. A work permit authorises you to work in Canada but is not an entry visa. Depending on your nationality you may also need a visitor visa (TRV) or an eTA to actually travel to Canada.

Official sources

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official government sources.

Verified against official gov.uk sources · last reviewed 2026-08-21. Information only — not legal advice.

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