Work Permits in Canada
Reviewed by the Commoner Law Editorial Team. Sourced from Canadian federal statutes and official sources. Provincial information reflects each province's own legislation and court rulings. Written in plain language for general understanding — this is educational content, not legal advice. Our editorial standards
What is this right?
Canadian work permits come in two basic flavours. An open work permit lets you work for any Canadian employer. An employer-specific permit ties you to one job with one employer — and that tie is what makes the system riskier than it looks.
Most employer-specific permits need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): a document proving no Canadian worker is available for the role. The exemptions matter — CUSMA professionals from the US or Mexico, intra-company transfers, International Experience Canada (IEC) participants, and certain French-speaking streams all skip the LMIA process.
If your employer is exploiting or abusing you, the Vulnerable Worker Open Work Permit exists to break the tie — you can leave that employer and work for someone else while your situation is sorted out. It's underused.
Fees include the processing fee plus biometrics. Amounts change — check canada.ca/immigration-fees for the current figure before you apply.
When does it apply?
- You're a foreign national who wants to work in Canada temporarily.
- Some jobs are LMIA-exempt — confirm before going through the LMIA process.
- Holding a valid study permit? You can usually work on or off campus without a separate work permit.
What to Do If Your Canadian Employer Is Exploiting You on a Work Permit
- Confirm whether an LMIA is required first — the employer applies for it, but it shapes the timeline.
- Pull together passport, job offer letter, proof of qualifications, and supporting paperwork.
- Apply through the IRCC portal.
- Give biometrics at a designated collection point when prompted.
- Don't start working until the permit is in your hand.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't work without a valid permit. Removal and a return ban follow quickly.
- Don't stay with an abusive employer because you think you have no choice. The Vulnerable Worker permit is exactly the off-ramp.
- Don't let any employer hold your passport. It's illegal and it's a textbook trafficking red flag.
- Don't overstay your permit. Apply to renew or extend well before the expiry date.
- Don't assume a tourist visa lets you work. Visitor status and work authorisation are not the same paper.
Common Questions
When does work permits apply?
You're a foreign national who wants to work in Canada temporarily.Some jobs are LMIA-exempt — confirm before going through the LMIA process.Holding a valid study permit? You can usually work on or off campus without a separate work permit.
What should I do if my employer in Canada is taking advantage of my work permit situation?
Confirm whether an LMIA is required first — the employer applies for it, but it shapes the timeline.Pull together passport, job offer letter, proof of qualifications, and supporting paperwork.Apply through the IRCC portal.Give biometrics at a designated collection point when prompted.Don't start working until the permit is in your hand.
What mistakes should I avoid with work permits?
Don't work without a valid permit. Removal and a return ban follow quickly.Don't stay with an abusive employer because you think you have no choice. The Vulnerable Worker permit is exactly the off-ramp.Don't let any employer hold your passport. It's illegal and it's a textbook trafficking red flag.Don't overstay your permit. Apply to renew or extend well before the expiry date.Don't assume a tourist visa lets you work. Visitor status and work authorisation are not the same paper.