Canada•North AmericaWP — Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA)
At a Glance
2–4 months
CAD $155
Duration of employment
Renewable
Renewal
Renewable
Family
Not specified
PR Pathway
Yes
Sponsor
Job offer required
Work
Remote not required

Living in Canada
Overview
Work for a specific Canadian employer with an approved Labour Market Impact Assessment.
The Canadian Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA-based) lets foreign nationals work for a named employer in a specific role. It requires a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment confirming no qualified Canadian was available, plus a formal job offer. The permit is tied to the employer, position, and LMIA duration.
Stay duration matches the employment contract, with renewals available by obtaining a new LMIA. Spouses may qualify for an open work permit. The permit supports a pathway to permanent residence via Express Entry, PNP, or other economic programs. Dual intent is permitted. Fee is CAD 155.
This visa is ideal for foreign workers with a specific Canadian job offer from an employer who has already secured a positive LMIA and want a route toward permanent residency.

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Stay & Extensions
| Status type | Tied to program duration |
Conversion Paths
Visas you can typically switch to from this status.
Canada
Canada
Canada
CanadaFSTP — Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
CanadaPV2 / PNC — Provincial Nominee Program
Requirements
PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS
Positive LMIA
Job offer
Qualifications for the role
REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
Passport
LMIA
Job offer letter
Qualifications
Advantages & Considerations
Key Benefits
- Wide range of occupations
- Can lead to PR
Worth Knowing
- LMIA process lengthy
- Employer-specific
Application Process
Principal applies for PR
Primary applicant must have submitted PR application
Receive Acknowledgement of Receipt
Get AOR letter confirming PR application received
Check qualification
Verify spouse/partner meets current qualification criteria as of January 21, 2025
Create account
Establish IRCC online account
Complete OWP application
Submit open work permit application
Provide documentation
Upload marriage certificate, AOR, and identification
Pay fee
Pay CAD $155 work permit fee plus CAD $100 open work permit holder fee
Receive decision
Work permit approval in online account
Application Forms
Go to application portal| IMM 1295 Application for Work Permit Made Outside of Canada | Fill online |
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Living in Canada
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