Canada has two main types of work permit: employer-specific and open. The first normally limits work to the employer and other conditions printed on the permit. The second is available only to people who qualify under a specific rule. You cannot choose an open permit simply because it would be more convenient.
If the permit is employer-specific
The employer must determine whether the position needs a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or falls under an exemption. For an LMIA-required position, the worker generally needs a positive LMIA and the related employment documents. For many LMIA-exempt positions, the employer first submits an offer through IRCC's Employer Portal and gives the worker the offer number; exceptions exist.
The worker still applies to IRCC and must meet the permit and admissibility requirements. A positive LMIA or portal offer does not allow work by itself. Employers can read our hiring-route guide and employer-specific permit steps.
If an open permit may be available
IRCC allows open permits in defined circumstances, which can involve a spouse or partner, a graduate who meets PGWP rules, or another qualifying program. Check the current rule for the person's category, including any restrictions shown on the actual permit. A job offer is generally not required for the open permit itself.
If you are already in Canada
Check your current status and permit expiry date before applying to extend or change conditions. Whether you may keep working while IRCC processes an application depends on the timing and type of application. A person changing jobs on an employer-specific permit generally needs a new permit; IRCC has a separate process to request interim work authorization in some cases. If status has already expired, see restoration of temporary resident status.
What to bring to a route review
- current permit or visitor record and expiry date;
- job offer, duties, location, wage and employer details;
- LMIA documents or the claimed exemption and offer number, if any;
- education, work history and family circumstances relevant to the route; and
- previous applications or refusal letters.
We can identify what the employer and worker each need to verify before filing. An initial consultation is $180 plus applicable provincial taxes, separate from representation. Consultations are available in English and Russian.