Work Permits & LMIA

Canada issues work permits through two broad systems: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (usually requiring an LMIA) and the International Mobility Program (LMIA-exempt permits). Getting the category right is the difference between a smooth approval and months of delay.

Employer-specific vs. open permits

Employer-specific (closed)

Tied to one employer, job and location — most LMIA-based and many IMP permits work this way.

Open work permits

Let you work for almost any employer — for example spousal open work permits and certain post-graduation permits.

What an LMIA involves

An LMIA is a document from ESDC showing that hiring a foreign worker won't negatively affect the Canadian labour market. It generally requires:

Recruitment

Advertising and recruitment efforts that test the local labour market.

Prevailing wage

Paying at least the prevailing wage for the occupation and region.

A detailed application

Including a transition or benefits plan for higher-wage roles.

LMIA-exempt options (IMP)

Many permits need no LMIA — they rely on establishing the exemption correctly:

Intra-company transfers

Moving key staff to a Canadian branch or affiliate.

Free-trade agreements

Such as CUSMA professionals and investors.

Spousal open work permits

For spouses of certain workers and students.

Post-graduation work permits

For eligible graduates of Canadian programs.

How Vik Immigration helps

We advise both employers and workers — assessing whether an LMIA or an exemption is the right route, preparing documents that meet ESDC and IRCC standards, and structuring the file to support a future permanent-residence plan where that's the goal.

Employer-specific vs. open permits

What an LMIA involves

LMIA-exempt options (IMP)

Explore other services.

Not sure if this is the right pathway?