Employer-Specific Work Permits
Employer-Specific Work Permit in Canada
Dedicated Work Authorization for Specified Employment
If you are planning to work in Canada for a specific employer, an Employer-Specific Work Permit may be the right option for you. Also known as a closed work permit, this type of work permit allows a foreign worker to work in Canada under specific conditions.
An employer-specific work permit normally identifies the employer you are authorized to work for, the type of work you can perform and the location where you can work. It also includes an expiry date.
At HM Group, we help individuals understand their Canadian work permit options and guide them through the application process.
What Is an Employer-Specific Work Permit?
An Employer-Specific Work Permit Canada allows a foreign national to work for a particular Canadian employer.
Unlike an open work permit, an employer-specific permit generally does not allow you to work for any employer in Canada. You must follow the conditions listed on your work permit.
Your permit may specify:
- Name of the employer
- Job or occupation
- Location of employment
- Length of employment
- Expiry date
- Other applicable conditions
This makes it important to understand the terms of your work permit before starting employment in Canada.
Do You Need a Job Offer?
In most cases, an employer-specific work permit is connected to a Canadian job offer.
Depending on the position and the applicable immigration program, the Canadian employer may need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before the foreign worker can apply for a work permit.
Some positions may qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit under specific Canadian immigration programs.
The requirements depend on the employer, position, worker and immigration pathway.
LMIA-Based vs. LMIA-Exempt Permits
LMIA-Based Employer-Specific Work Permit
Many Canadian employers hiring foreign workers need an LMIA before the worker can apply for an employer-specific work permit.
The LMIA process is used to assess the impact of hiring a foreign worker on Canada's labour market. An employer may need to demonstrate that they have made reasonable efforts to recruit Canadian citizens or permanent residents for the position.
If a positive LMIA is issued, the foreign worker may use the required LMIA and employment documents to support their work permit application.
A positive LMIA does not automatically guarantee approval of a work permit. The worker must still meet the applicable immigration and admissibility requirements.
LMIA-Exempt Work Permits
Not every employer-specific work permit requires an LMIA.
Some workers may qualify for an LMIA-exempt work permit under programs such as the International Mobility Program or other specific immigration categories.
These programs may apply to certain workers based on international agreements, significant benefits to Canada, intra-company transfers and other qualifying situations.
If you believe your employment may qualify for an LMIA exemption, it is important to identify the correct category before submitting your application.
Changing Employers
One of the most important things to understand about an employer-specific work permit is that it is generally tied to the employer named on the permit.
If you want to change employers, you may need to apply for a new work permit or follow the appropriate process before starting your new job.
You should not assume that an existing employer-specific work permit allows you to immediately begin working for another employer.
Understanding your work permit conditions can help you avoid problems with your immigration status.
How to Apply & Who Can Apply
The application process depends on whether your job requires an LMIA and where you are applying from.
Generally, the process may involve:
- Receiving a qualifying job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Determining whether an LMIA is required.
- Completing the required employer process.
- Preparing your work permit application and supporting documents.
- Submitting the application to the appropriate Canadian immigration authority.
- Providing biometrics or completing other requirements, if applicable.
- Receiving a decision on your application.
Preparing accurate and complete documentation is an important part of the process.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility for an employer-specific work permit depends on your individual circumstances and the requirements of the applicable program.
Factors that may be considered include your job offer, qualifications, work experience, employer, immigration status and admissibility to Canada.
Additional requirements may apply depending on the occupation and type of work you intend to perform.
How HM Group Can Help
Applying for an Employer-Specific Work Permit in Canada can be confusing, particularly when you are unsure whether your job requires an LMIA or qualifies for an exemption.
At HM Group, we help clients understand their work permit options and navigate the Canadian immigration process.
Our team can assist with understanding the applicable pathway, organizing supporting documents and preparing for the work permit application process.
Whether you already have a Canadian job offer or are exploring your options to work in Canada, HM Group can help you understand the next steps.
