Work Permits in Canada
Canada does not have one general work visa for every foreign worker. Some permits are employer-specific and may require a Labour Market Impact Assessment. Others are LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program. Open work permits are available only in defined situations.
General information only. Requirements change. IRCC makes the final decision.
LMIA-required vs. LMIA-exempt permits
The key question is whether the job requires the employer to first obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Many employer-specific permits require an LMIA. Others fall under the International Mobility Program and are LMIA-exempt under specific categories.
Open work permits
Open work permits allow the holder to work for almost any employer. They are issued only in defined categories: post-graduation (PGWP), spousal/partner OWPs, bridging OWPs, and IEC working holidays are the main ones.
International Experience Canada
IEC provides Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op options for eligible citizens of bilateral partner countries. Age and quota limits apply.
What you can expect from a serious review
- A route comparison based on the information provided
- A document and evidence checklist
- Clear decision points
- An explanation of what still needs official verification
- A defined next action
Frequently Asked Questions
Need help deciding what to do next?
Share your goal and a short summary of your situation. We will use it to prepare for an initial discussion. This is not an official immigration assessment.
No result is guaranteed. The value of the review is a clearer route, a better-prepared file and a more informed decision.