After the LMIA: what the worker submits

A positive LMIA is not a work permit. After the employer gets the LMIA, the worker must apply to IRCC for the work permit.

Documents from the employer

• A copy of the positive LMIA decision letter.
• Annex A – Employment details.
• The job offer or employment contract.

The worker's documents

• A valid passport.
• Proof that you meet the job requirements: degrees, certificates, work experience letters.
• The documents on the personalized checklist in your IRCC account (photo, family information, travel history...).
• Certified translations of documents not in English or French.

IRCC fees

Biometrics and medical exam

• After you submit your application and fees, you get a biometric instruction letter (BIL) and must give your fingerprints and photo at an official location. Biometrics are valid for 10 years.
• People who lived in Vietnam for 6 months or more in the year before coming, and plan to stay over 6 months, need an immigration medical exam with an IRCC panel physician. IRCC notes a medical exam can add more than 3 months to processing if not done upfront.

After approval

• Applying from outside Canada: you get a port of entry letter of introduction; the work permit is issued when you arrive.
• Check the details on your work permit before leaving the port of entry.

Note ESDC advises workers to apply after the employer receives a positive LMIA. LMIAs have a validity period; don't wait too long to apply.