Work Permits
A work permit allows foreign nationals to work legally in Canada under certain conditions authorized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Canada offers different types of work permits depending on the applicant’s circumstances, employment arrangements, and immigration status.
Two Main Categories
Broadly, work permits fall into two main categories: Open Work Permits and Employer-Specific (Closed) Work Permits.
Open Work Permits
Flexibility
Allows a foreign national to work for most employers in Canada without needing a specific job offer at the time of application.
Post-Graduation (PGWP)
For international students who have graduated from a designated learning institution.
Spousal Open Work Permits
For spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers, international students, or inland PR applicants.
Employer-Specific (Closed) Work Permits
Restrictions
Allows a foreign national to work only for the employer named on the permit and under the specified conditions.
LMIA-Based
Requires the employer to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment before hiring the foreign worker.
LMIA-Exempt
Includes categories like C-10 (Significant Benefit to Canada), C-11 (Entrepreneurs), and C-16 (Francophone Mobility).
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