Work Visa
Work Permits
A work permit is an authorization granted by IRCC that allows an applicant to work legally in Canada.
This permit can be considered open with no restrictions, or the permit can outline the specifics of the employer, occupation and industry.
Foreign nationals may apply for Work Permit from either:
- the visa post abroad,
- the port of entry, or
- from within Canada

Labour Market Impact Assessment
Generally, a foreign national wishing to work in Canada in an occupation that requires a work permit should apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) if the occupation demands one.
In many cases, a person is not required to have an LMIA in their possession in order to apply for a work permit.
As an easy reference guide, you should consult the Employment and Social Development Website (ESDC) to determine which occupations require an LMIA. This resource also provides information on the process an employer must follow to obtain an LMIA for the position they wish to offer to a Foreign Worker.
International Mobility Program
The International Mobility Program lets the employer hire a temporary foreign worker without a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).


