Work Permits

Information about work permits and temporary foreign workers.

Work Permit Overview

Requirements differ by permit type and category.

Employer-specific

Tied to a single employer and job.

Job offerLMIA or exemption
Open Work Permit

Work for any employer (with conditions).

SpousePGWPNo employer
Working Holiday (IEC)

Open work permit under International Experience Canada.

Open permitCountry quotaAge range
Bridging Open Work Permit

If PR application is in progress.

PR in processOpen
LMIA-exempt (IMP)

Work permits under international mobility programs.

ExemptCategory-based

Application Steps

General online application flow.

1
Confirm type

Identify employer-specific, open, or LMIA-exempt.

2
Prepare documents

Passport, job offer, LMIA or exemption details.

3
Submit online

Apply via IRCC and pay required fees.

4
Receive decision

Receive approval or letter of introduction.

Working Holiday (IEC)

Eligibility and quotas vary by country.

Official guide

Eligibility snapshot

  • Citizenship of a participating country
  • Meet age range for your country
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Health insurance coverage

IEC categories

Working HolidayYoung ProfessionalsInternational Co-op

Employer requirements differ by category.

1
Create profile

Enter the IEC pool for your category.

2
Accept invitation

Accept invitation within the deadline.

3
Submit application

Upload documents and pay fees online.

4
Receive POE letter

Use POE letter to get permit at entry.

Common Documents

Additional documents may be required by case.

  • Valid passport
  • Job offer letter
  • LMIA or exemption code
  • Resume / experience proof
  • Education credentials
  • Application & fee receipt
  • Biometrics (if required)
  • Medical exam (if required)

Pre-check

Quick checklist before applying.

Employer-specific

  • Job offer in hand
  • LMIA or exemption
  • Job/location conditions

Open work permit

  • Eligibility category
  • Study/spouse/PR
  • Passport validity
Always verify requirements on IRCC.
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Immigration | Hellomark