Work in Canada

LMIA-based Closed Work Permit

With a positive LMIA and a job offer, a foreign worker can apply for an employer-specific work permit. It allows you to work for one employer, in one occupation and location, under the conditions on your permit.

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WHAT YOU NEED

Application Essentials

Positive LMIA

Your employer provides a copy of the positive LMIA and its number, together with a written job offer.

EmployerESDC

Qualifications

You must show that you meet the job’s requirements — education, work experience, licences and language where required.

EducationExperience

Admissibility

You must be admissible to Canada and show that you will follow the conditions of your permit. Biometrics and a medical exam may be required.

BiometricsMedical

CONDITIONS

Living with a Closed Work Permit

One employer, one job. Your permit names your employer, and usually your occupation and work location.
Changing employers generally requires a new work permit, and usually a new LMIA, before you start the new job.
If you face abuse at work, you may be eligible for an open work permit for vulnerable workers.
Your family: whether your spouse can get an open work permit depends on your occupation’s TEER level. See open work permits →

OUR SERVICE

How We Help

Offer Review

Check the LMIA and job offer details

Documents

Qualifications, identity and support letters

Application

Inside or outside Canada

Next Steps

Extensions, family, and PR planning

FAQ

Not on an employer-specific permit, unless you obtain separate authorization. Working outside your permit conditions can affect your status and future applications.

Skilled Canadian work experience can help you qualify for Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class) or provincial nominee programs. Note that job offers no longer give CRS points as of March 2025.

Requirements change frequently. The information on this page summarizes IRCC guidance as reviewed in September 2026 and is for general information only. For current rules, see the official Government of Canada page, or book a consultation for advice on your situation.

NEXT STEP

Start Work in Canada on the Right Footing

We review your job offer and LMIA, prepare your work permit application, and help you plan the next step.