Work Permit Application in Canada: The No‑Nonsense 2025 Guide

A Canadian work permit application is straightforward once you know which path applies to you and what order to tackle the steps. This guide walks you through the whole process, choosing the right category, preparing documents, paying the correct fees, and avoiding refusals that could’ve been prevented. It also covers 2024–2025 policy changes that are affecting real applicants right now.

Canada Work Permit Application: Do you actually need a work permit?

Canada work permit application Most people planning to work in Canada need a work permit. But before you dive in, confirm whether you’re truly doing “work,” whether you might qualify as a business visitor, or whether some short‑term exemption applies to your situation.

Work vs. business visitor (plain language): If you’ll be on a Canadian payroll or providing services to a Canadian entity that creates direct competitive activity in the labour market, you need a work permit. Business visitors typically come to attend meetings, negotiate contracts, or receive training—they’re not entering the Canadian labour market.

Examples of “work without a permit” exemptions: certain performing artists, some public speakers, short‑term highly skilled work under specific conditions, some academic activities, and after‑sales service for specialized equipment in limited scenarios. Even if an exemption applies, you’ll still need to meet entry and visa requirements and carry the right proof at the border.

Status basics: If you need a work permit, get it before you start working. Working on a visitor record can lead to enforcement action, refusals, or future inadmissibility.

Pick the right path: LMIA‑required vs. LMIA‑exempt

Every job offer falls into one of two categories:

LMIA‑required (Temporary Foreign Worker Program, TFWP): Your Canadian employer must get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The LMIA demonstrates that no Canadian worker is readily available for the job. Once a positive (or neutral) LMIA is issued, you can apply for your employer‑specific work permit.

LMIA‑exempt (International Mobility Program, IMP): No LMIA required because the job fits a policy or international agreement that benefits Canada. Examples include intra‑company transferees, significant benefit cases, reciprocal employment, academic roles, and certain spousal categories. For employer‑specific IMP roles, employers usually submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay a compliance fee before you apply.

Decision path (quick version):

Figure out whether the offer is LMIA‑required or exempt.
LMIA‑required? Employer completes the LMIA, then you apply with the LMIA reference and job details.
LMIA‑exempt and employer‑specific? Employer submits the offer and pays the fee, then you apply with the offer number.
Open work permit (like eligible spousal applicants, some post‑graduation cases, IEC Working Holiday)? You apply without tying yourself to a single employer.

If your job needs an LMIA (TFWP)

What your employer does first:

They’ll determine the correct LMIA stream—high‑wage, low‑wage, Global Talent Stream, agriculture, whatever applies—and complete any required recruitment or advertising. Then they submit the LMIA application to ESDC/Service Canada and pay the employer fee.

Once they receive a positive or neutral LMIA, they’ll give you the LMIA letter plus all the job offer details: wage, duties, location, and start date.

Your application package (core items):

LMIA letter/number and a signed job offer or contract that matches the LMIA
Forms generated in your IRCC account (fill them out accurately—dates, addresses, travel history, personal history with no gaps)
Proof of qualifications: education credentials, licenses, trade certifications, and proof of experience. Include certified translations where needed.
Police certificate(s) and immigration medical exam if your occupation or length of stay requires them
Biometrics (if required) after you get IRCC’s instruction letter
Proof of funds and ties to your home country if relevant, to show temporary intent

Timing tip: Make sure the job start date is realistic, given current LMIA and permit processing times. LMIAs have a validity window—apply for the work permit before it expires.

If your job is LMIA‑exempt (IMP)

Common LMIA‑exempt categories:

Intra‑company transferees (ICT): executives, managers, or specialized knowledge workers transferring within a multinational
International agreements/reciprocal employment: CUSMA and other free trade agreements, youth mobility (IEC), professional exchanges
Significant benefit to Canada: entrepreneurs or performers whose work provides a notable cultural or economic benefit
Academic and research roles
Spousal open work permits (limited—see the spousal section below for current scope)
Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for eligible graduates of Canadian institutions

Employer Portal step (for employer‑specific IMP cases): Before you apply, the employer submits an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pays the compliance fee. You’ll include the offer of employment number with your application.

Evidence expectations: Tailor your documents to the legal basis for exemption. For ICT, that means showing corporate relationships and detailed job duties. For significant benefit, you’ll need evidence of cultural or economic impact.

Recent policy notes affecting IMP:

Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP) eligibility tightened in 2025 (more below)
Port‑of‑entry (POE) issuance limits tightened—some categories that used to be possible at POE now require online applications

Where you’re applying from changes everything

Your steps and eligibility differ depending on whether you are filing a work permit application outside Canada, inside Canada, or at a port of entry.

A) Applying from outside Canada

Create or sign in to your IRCC online account and answer the eligibility questionnaire.
Get your personalized document checklist and complete all forms.
Upload supporting documents (see checklists at the end of this guide).
Pay fees and submit.
Wait for biometrics instructions (if required), then attend an authorized collection point.
Complete your medical exam when instructed, or do it upfront if you know it’s required for your job or length of stay.
If you need a temporary resident visa (TRV), IRCC issues it when your work permit is approved. For eligible visa‑exempt travellers, an eTA is auto‑issued and linked to your passport.
Bring your approval letter(s) to Canada to receive the work permit at the border (unless your case requires issuance before travel).

B) Applying from inside Canada

You can apply in Canada if you fall within IRCC’s listed categories—certain visitors with valid job offers and public policies in effect, eligible students or graduates, or current workers seeking extensions. Submit online, and you will remain in maintained status (formerly called “implied status”) if your extension is filed before your current status expires. This lets you stay in Canada under the same conditions until a decision is made. Keep proof of timely filing and your current permit handy for your employer.

Changing employers sooner (public policy): A temporary public policy allows many workers with employer‑specific permits to switch jobs and start working for the new employer once IRCC acknowledges the new application, before the final decision. Follow IRCC’s instructions exactly and keep the authorization email for your new employer’s records.

C) Applying at a port of entry (POE)

This option is limited. To qualify, you generally need to be visa‑exempt, meet the type‑specific requirements, and have all documents ready: LMIA or Employer Portal offer number, where applicable, medicals if required,and everything. Even when you’re eligible, issuance is at the officer’s discretion.

Important: As of June 21, 2024, PGWP applications can’t be made at the POE. Most in‑Canada applicants must apply online rather than trying to “flagpole.”

Create your online application the right way

Account and questionnaire: Start in your IRCC account and answer the prompts carefully so you get the correct checklist. If your answers don’t match your documents—wrong occupation, wrong employer details, whatever—you might get the wrong forms or a refusal.

Common forms:

Application for Work Permit Made Outside/Inside Canada (depends on your location)
Family Information form
Schedule 1 (if required based on your history)
Use of a Representative (only if you’re appointing one)

Document tips that prevent refusals:

Job duties vs. NOC alignment: Your letter of employment should reflect actual day‑to‑day duties, not just a job title. Officers compare duties to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) for skill and TEER alignment.
Experience evidence that can be verified: Generic or unverifiable reference letters are a problem. Add supplementary proof—payslips, tax slips, HR contacts, LinkedIn company presence, websites.
Translations: Use certified translations. Include copies of originals and translator credentials.
Travel and personal history: Account for all months without gaps. Unexplained periods trigger additional questions.
File quality: Follow IRCC’s file size and format rules. Use clear naming like “Lastname_Firstname_PoliceCert_Nigeria_2025-02-10.pdf.”

Biometrics: Most applicants give biometrics. IRCC sends an instruction letter after you apply, book, and attend within the allowed window. If you gave biometrics in the last 10 years and they’re still valid for your application type, you might be exempt from giving them again.

Medical exam: Some occupations and extended stays require an immigration medical exam with a panel physician. If you know you’ll need it, health care, child care, certain agricultural roles—consider doing an upfront medical to avoid delays. Just keep validity periods in mind.

Police certificates: If IRCC asks, provide police certificates for countries where you’ve spent significant time. Start early. Some take weeks.

Fees and how to calculate yours

Core fees (typical):

Work permit (including extensions) – $155 CAD per person
Open work permit holder surcharge – $100 CAD (on top of the $155 for open permits like PGWP or eligible spousal OWP)
International Experience Canada (IEC) participation fee – $179.75 CAD (plus category‑specific fees like Working Holiday biometrics when applicable)
Restore your status as a worker and get a new work permit – $394.75 CAD (combined total for restoration plus new permit when eligible)
Group of 3+ performing artists applying together – $465 CAD maximum for permits

Example calculations:

Single applicant, employer‑specific permit: $155
PGWP applicant: $155 + $100 = $255
Eligible spouse on an open work permit (SOWP): $155 + $100 = $255
Restoration plus new employer‑specific permit: $394.75
IEC Working Holiday (with biometrics when required): $179.75 + $85 = $264.75

Pay fees online and keep your receipts. Refunds are limited—if IRCC has started processing, you might only get partial refunds or nothing, depending on the stage.

Processing times, maintained status, and travel

Processing times: IRCC’s online tool gives estimates based on recent data, but they can vary widely by category and country. Treat them as estimates, not guarantees. If your job start date is firm, build buffer time into your plans.

Maintained status (extensions filed in Canada): If you apply to extend your status before it expires, you can stay in Canada under the same conditions while IRCC processes your application. Keep proof of your submission and your current permit. Talk to your employer’s HR clearly about your situation to avoid payroll issues.

Travelling while an application is in progress: Travel can complicate things. If you leave Canada and need a new TRV to get back in, apply for it in time. If you’re on maintained status but your permit has expired, re‑entry can be risky until you have a new approval.

Changing employers quickly: Under the temporary job‑change public policy, many employer‑specific workers can start a new job after IRCC confirms the new application is received and issues authorization—before the final work permit is printed. Follow the exact instructions IRCC gives you for the email authorization.

Common reasons for refusals—and how to avoid them

Weak evidence of eligibility:

Job duties don’t match the claimed NOC. Letters are vague, templated, or unverified. Missing proof of qualifications, like licenses or certifications. Employer documents lack credibility or don’t match public information.

Insufficient temporary intent:

No proof of funds or ties to your home country, where relevant. Travel history has unexplained gaps.

Forms and history errors:

Inconsistent dates, unexplained gaps, mistakes in personal or travel history, undisclosed refusals or overstays elsewhere.

How to strengthen your file:

Align duties with the NOC description. Include specific tools, software, and outputs that mirror real work. Add third‑party corroboration—payroll records, tax slips, project deliverables, screenshots of company websites and your profile, LinkedIn posts or announcements where appropriate.

Write a short, structured Letter of Explanation (LOE) that connects the job, your background, why you’re needed now, and your plan after the permit expires.

For LMIA‑exempt cases, cite the actual exemption category and include evidence that you meet the criteria. For ICT, that means corporate links.

Special cases (quick primers)

A) Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

Available to eligible graduates of designated learning institutions (DLIs). The permit length generally matches your program length, up to a maximum cap, but can’t exceed your passport expiry. Renew your passport before applying to avoid getting a shorter permit.

POE restriction: PGWP applications can’t be made at the border or airport. Apply online.

Watch processing times. If your study permit is expiring soon after you finish your studies, plan the transition to visitor or worker status correctly. Don’t work after your student work authorization ends unless a specific policy authorizes it.

B) Spousal Open Work Permit (SOWP)

As of January 2025, eligibility has narrowed. Spouses and partners of some high‑skilled foreign workers and certain international students remain eligible, but many dependents no longer qualify. Always check the current criteria before applying.

You’ll need proof of relationship (marriage certificate or joint evidence), proof that the principal is actively employed in an eligible occupation or enrolled in a qualifying program (when required), and clear evidence of cohabitation if applicable.

C) International Experience Canada (IEC)

Youth‑mobility categories like Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co‑op operate through seasonal pools. The 2025 pools are closed. If you received an invitation to apply (ITA), you can still finish your application. Otherwise, prepare for the next season when pools reopen.

Read activation instructions carefully. Some applicants activate at a POE, while others already in Canada might have special instructions.

D) Quebec specifics

Many employer‑specific roles in Quebec require a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) in addition to federal steps. Confirm whether your role and LMIA stream require a CAQ and get it before you apply for the work permit.

E) Work without a permit (selected examples)

Some short‑term activities are exempt certain public speakers or artists, for example. Even when you’re exempt, carry documentation to show the officer how you qualify and know the maximum length you can perform the activity.

Port of entry (POE) rules you should know

To apply at a POE, you typically need to be visa‑exempt and meet the detailed eligibility for your category.

You must bring complete documentation: LMIA or Employer Portal offer number, proof of qualifications, proof of medicals where required.

Officers can refuse POE issuance if anything is missing, your category isn’t eligible at the border, or you don’t meet general admissibility rules.

PGWP can’t be issued at a POE as of June 21, 2024.

Practical take: Even if you’re technically eligible, many applicants avoid POE applications because getting an online approval in advance reduces the risk of same‑day refusal and travel disruption.

After approval: activating and starting work

At the border or airport: Present your approval letter(s), LMIA or offer number confirmation if relevant, and supporting documents. Review the printed work permit on the spot. Check employer name, occupation, location, hours, end date.

SIN application: Apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) from Service Canada after you arrive, using your printed work permit.

Onboarding: Keep copies of your permit, LMIA or offer, and passport ID page. Your employer will need these for payroll and compliance.

If you’re refused or your status has expired

If refused:

Read the refusal reasons carefully and get GCMS notes to understand the officer’s concerns. Re‑apply only after you’ve addressed the issues—stronger employer evidence, clearer duties, added proof of ties or funds.

Reconsideration requests rarely succeed unless there’s a clear error of fact or law.

If status expired:

If eligible, apply to restore your status within the allowed window and pay the restoration plus new permit fees. Don’t work while you’re out of status.

If you’re not eligible to restore, you might need to leave and apply from outside Canada.

Checklist library (copy‑ready)

A) LMIA‑required applicant (TFWP)

LMIA letter/number (still valid)
Signed job offer or contract matching LMIA details
Completed IRCC forms generated in your account
Passport (all pages with stamps or visas as requested)
Proof of qualifications (degrees, licenses, certificates)
Employment reference letters with detailed duties and dates
Proof of prior employment (payslips, tax slips)
Police certificate(s) as requested
Immigration medical exam (if required)
Biometrics (if required)
Proof of funds (if relevant)
Letter of Explanation (optional but recommended)

B) LMIA‑exempt employer‑specific (IMP)

Employer Portal offer of employment number and fee receipt
Evidence for the exemption category (ICT corporate relationship docs, significant benefit evidence, etc.)
Job offer or contract with duties and wage
Qualifications evidence and licenses
Police certificate(s) and medical exam (if required)
Biometrics (if required)
Letter of Explanation

C) Open work permit (PGWP/SOWP/IEC as applicable)

Proof of eligibility (graduation letter and transcripts for PGWP; relationship and principal’s eligibility for SOWP; IEC ITA and instructions)
Passport with sufficient validity
Any required police or medical documents
Biometrics (if required)
Letter of Explanation

D) Outside vs. inside Canada—extra items

Outside: travel history evidence, proof of ties or funds, intent to leave after authorized stay
Inside: proof of current status, proof of timely extension (maintained status), any public‑policy authorization emails for job changes

Frequently asked questions

Can I work while my extension is processing?

If you applied to extend your work permit before it expired and you’re staying in Canada, you’re typically on maintained status under the same conditions. You can keep working for the same employer while IRCC makes a decision. Keep your submission confirmation and expired permit together to show your employer.

Can I change employers before my new permit is issued?

Often yes, if you follow IRCC’s job‑change public policy steps correctly. After IRCC acknowledges your new application and issues authorization, you can start with the new employer before the final decision. Save the authorization for HR.

Can my spouse get an open work permit under the current rules?

Depends. As of early 2025, eligibility narrowed to spouses and partners of certain workers and some international students in defined programs or occupations. Always check the current criteria—many dependants who qualified in previous years no longer do.

How long do outside‑Canada applications take?

Timelines vary significantly by country and category and change over time. Use IRCC’s online tool for current estimates and plan with extra buffer.

Can I apply at the border or airport?

Only if you’re eligible for POE issuance and have all documents. Visa‑exempt travellers might be able to apply at POE for certain categories, but many applicants are better off applying online first. PGWP is not allowed at POE.

Do I need a TRV or eTA separately?

If your permit is approved and you need a TRV, IRCC typically issues it. If you’re from an eTA‑eligible country, an eTA might be issued automatically and linked to your passport. Always check your approval letters for specifics.

Do I need biometrics again for an extension?

If your previous biometrics are still valid (generally up to 10 years for temporary resident applications), you might be exempt from giving them again. Otherwise, expect a new biometrics request after you apply.

What if my passport expires soon?

Your work permit can’t go past your passport expiry. Renew your passport before applying so you don’t get a shorter permit.

Do I need a CAQ for Quebec?

Many employer‑specific roles require a CAQ in addition to federal steps. Confirm early because it adds processing time.

How much proof of funds is enough?

There’s no universal number. Provide evidence that matches your living costs, travel, and initial settlement. Show you can support yourself before your first paycheque.

Do I need a medical exam for my job?

Some occupations (health care, child care, certain agriculture) and longer stays require it. When in doubt and time allows, an upfront medical can speed things up.

Can I travel while on maintained status?

Leaving Canada while on maintained status can complicate re‑entry. If your work permit expired, re‑entry generally isn’t recommended until you have your new approval and, where needed, a valid TRV.

Quick reference: 2024–2025 changes to know

POE limits for in‑Canada applicants: Most people already in Canada can no longer apply for a new or extended work permit at a POE. Apply online.
PGWP no longer at POE: Since June 21, 2024, PGWP must be filed online.
Family member SOWP changes: As of January 21, 2025, SOWP eligibility narrowed. Check the latest criteria before applying.
Job‑change public policy extended in 2025: Many employer‑specific workers can start with a new employer before the new permit is finalized, provided they follow IRCC’s steps and hold authorization.
IEC 2025 pools closed: ITA holders can still finish. Everyone else should prepare for the 2026 season.

Short snippet: How to apply for a Canadian work permit (50–60 words)

Confirm the right category (LMIA‑required, LMIA‑exempt, or open). If needed, your employer gets an LMIA or submits an Employer Portal offer. Apply online through your IRCC account with complete forms and proofs. Pay fees, give biometrics, and complete medicals if required. Wait for a decision and prepare for entry and activation.

Short table: Canada Work Permit Application Fees (2025)

Fee	Amount (CAD)	Notes
Work permit (per person)	$155	Employer‑specific or open (base fee)
Open work permit holder surcharge	$100	Add to base for open permits (PGWP, eligible SOWP, etc.)
IEC participation fee	$179.75	Plus biometrics ($85) when required
Restore status + new work permit	$394.75	For eligible in‑Canada restorations
Group (3+ performing artists)	$465	Max permit fee when applying together

Final word

The fastest approvals come from clean, credible files that match the legal category exactly. Build your work permit application around the rule you’re using—LMIA or LMIA‑exempt—document your eligibility like an auditor would check it, and keep your status valid at every step. When policies change (and they do), update your plan before you hit submit.