Work permits: LMIA-based, LMIA-exempt, and open work permits
Foreign workers coming to Canada temporarily, and family members who may qualify for an open work permit.
Steps, in order
- Identify the route first: employer-specific (usually needs an LMIA, or an LMIA exemption), or open (work for almost any employer).
- For an LMIA-based permit, the employer obtains the LMIA and the worker then applies with the job offer and LMIA details.
- For an LMIA-exempt permit, confirm the exemption category (for example, a trade agreement, Intra-company transfer, or a pilot) and gather the exemption evidence.
- For an open work permit, confirm the category (for example, spouse of a skilled worker or student, bridging open work permit for a PR applicant, or vulnerable-worker permit) and apply with the category evidence.
Who is eligible — the essentials
- An LMIA is an assessment that hiring a foreign worker will not harm the Canadian labour market; many employer-specific permits require one.
- The International Mobility Program covers workers who do not need an LMIA, including open work permit holders, some employer-specific LMIA-exempt workers, and IEC participants.
- Open work permits are not tied to one employer, but they still exclude employers on the non-compliant list and employers offering certain adult-entertainment services.
- Spouses and common-law partners of skilled workers and of students may qualify for an open work permit under specific LMIA-exemption codes; the principal worker's occupation level and remaining work period matter.
Documents you will usually need
- Job offer and employment details, or LMIA number where required
- Evidence for the LMIA exemption claimed, where applicable
- Proof of relationship for spousal open work permits
- Proof of PR application in progress for a bridging open work permit
- Passport, medical exam, and police certificates if requested
Common mistakes
- Applying for the wrong category — for example, an open permit when only an employer-specific permit fits.
- Starting work for a new employer while holding an employer-specific permit for a different employer.
- Assuming a spouse automatically qualifies for an open permit regardless of the principal worker's occupation and permit length.
Spousal open work permits narrowed in January 2025
Since 21 January 2025, open work permits for family members of foreign workers are narrowed: only select spouses or common-law partners qualify under this measure, and dependent children are no longer eligible under it. Whether a spouse qualifies depends on the principal worker's occupation and pathway — check the official eligibility page before applying: IRCC — Open work permits for family members of foreign workers: who can apply. The occupation list and remaining-validity rules on that page are the final word.
General information only — not legal advice. Immigration rules change. Always check the official source above before applying.