Work Permits

We consider multiple variables when creating an optimal strategy regarding Work Permit applications. That depends on whether your application is based on the LMIA or LMIA exemption, your country of residency, nationality, and personal immigration history. We create unique solutions for each client tailored to personal circumstances. Our goal is to see you in Canada quickly!

There are two types of work permits:

• Employer-specific permit:

This permit will allow you to work for an employer specified on your work permit and have other conditions, such as employment location, position, and more. A temporary foreign worker can’t accept employment with any other employer.

• Open work permit:

This kind of work permit allows you to work for any employer and anywhere in Canada. It is not location or occupation-specific. It is related to the spouses of skilled workers, students and some other categories. In addition, from January 30^th of 2023, until further notice, spouses of non-skilled temporary foreign workers will be able to apply for this type of work permit. You can also apply for a Bridging Open work permit once you obtain the Permanent Resident (PR) number and submit a full PR application.

Further, we can separate work permits into 2 categories:

• LMIA-based work permit:

LMIA stands for Labour Market Impact Assessment, and that application has to be filled out with Service Canada. This is a part of the Temporary foreign worker program. Your company will need to advertise for 28 consecutive days before being eligible to apply for LMIA. You can find more information regarding the Temporary Foreign Worker program here: https://premierimmigration.ca/temporary-foreign-worker-program/

• LMIA-exempt work permit

Conversely, many foreign workers that do not require an LMIA fall under the International Mobility Program (IMP). Numerous streams are LMIA-exempt. Streams such as the Francophone Mobility program, Intra-Company transfers, Young professionals and work permits issued under Free-trade agreements do not require LMIA application. Legislative sections further confirming LMIA exemption codes are as follows:

• A25.2 Public policies
• R204: International agreements or arrangements
• R205: Canadian interests
• R206: No other means of support
• R207: Permanent residence applicants in Canada
• R207.1: Vulnerable workers
• R208: Humanitarian reasons
• International Mobility Workers Unit (IMWU): port of entry (POE) assistance

We are experts in both LMIA and LMIA-exempt work permit, so contact us today to find out more.