Types of Canada Work Permits

Explore Types of Work Permits in Canada

Canada offers several work permit options to fill labour shortages with skilled workers from abroad. Here is an overview of the main types of Canada work permits.

Canada Employer-Specific Work Permit

This work permit is tied to a specific job and employer in Canada. Requirements include:

Job Offer: You must have a job offer from a Canadian employer.
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): The employer must obtain an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), first demonstrating efforts to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

Canada Open Work Permit

A Canada Open Work Permit is not job-specific and allows you to work for any Canadian employer. Eligibility criteria include:

Graduating from a Canadian post-secondary institution.
Being the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or international student.
Completing a work contract as a temporary foreign worker.
Participating in a youth exchange programme.
Being a refugee, protected person, or holder of a permanent resident permit subject to an unenforceable removal order.
Being a victim of human trafficking, applying for a temporary resident permit.

Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit

Graduates from Canadian designated learning institutions (DLIs) can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to work full-time in Canada for up to three years. Requirements include:

Holding a valid Canada study permit at the time of application.
Graduating from a Canadian DLI with a diploma, degree, certificate, or credential.
Authorisation to work off-campus during studies.

Other Programmes to Work in Canada

Several other programmes also facilitate working in Canada and provide work permts:

Canada Express Entry

Canada Express Entry manages applications for permanent residence under these categories:

Canada Federal Skilled Worker Program
Canada Federal Skilled Trades Program
Canadian Experience Class

Eligibility involves creating an online profile and being ranked against other candidates based on various factors. Top-ranked candidates receive invitations to apply for permanent residence in Canada.

Canada Federal Skilled Worker Program

The Canada Federal Skilled Worker program is for individuals with at least one year of full-time work experience in a skilled occupation in Canada. Applicants must meet language requirements and have their credentials assessed by a Canadian organisation.

Canada Federal Skilled Trades Program

The Canada Federal Skilled Trades Program is for skilled workers with at least two years of full-time work experience in a skilled trade within the last five years in Canada. Applicants must meet the requirements of relevant trade agreements.

Canadian Experience Class

The Canadian Experience Class program is for temporary foreign workers with at least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience in Canada within the last three years and meets language requirements.

Canada Self-Employed Persons Program

The Canada Self-Employed Persons Program is for self-employed people in cultural or athletic activities. Applicants should demonstrate the intention and ability to be self-employed in Canada and significantly contribute to Canadian society.

Canada Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

Each province and territory in Canada has its own PNP, which allows it to nominate foreign nationals who meet its specific economic needs. Successful applicants may become eligible for permanent residence in Canada.