FOREIGN WORKER
Most people will need a work permit to work in Canada. It is important to note, eligibility for a work permit will depend on a few things including where the application will be made from.
If you are applying for a work permit outside of Canada, we must first determine which work permit category is best suited for you.
Open Work Permits
Under the International Mobility Program, an open work permit that will allow a foreign national to work for any employer in Canada for a specific period of time.
An open work permit does not require you to have a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada.
You may be eligible for an open work permit if you:
- have applied for permanent residence from within Canada
- are a dependent family member of someone who applied for permanent residence
- are a spouse or common-law parter of a skilled worker or an international student
- are an international student who has graduated from a designated learning institute and are eligible for the Post-Graduate work Permit Program
Employer Specific Work Permits
An employer specific work permit will allow a foreign national to work for a specific employer for a certain amount of time at a set location.
An employer specific work permit, also known as a closed work permit, requires an employer to apply to Employment and Social Development Canada for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill a specific job. It will also show that no Canadian is available to do the job.
Once an employer receives the LMIA, the foreign national can apply for a work permit by providing a job offer, a contract, copy of the LMIA and the LMIA number.
Need help navigating the work permit application or LMIA process? Get in touch today and let us help you with a successful application.
We’re here to answer any of your questions. If you require more information or if you would like to book a consult, feel free to contact us.