Work permit basics

4 articles

Employer-specific and open work permitsCanada has 2 types of work permits: employer-specific and open. The differences, who can get each and the conditions printed on the permit, per IRCC.Updated October 2026
What is an LMIA?An LMIA is what an employer gets from ESDC to show it needs a foreign worker. What it means, who applies, who pays and when it's needed.Updated October 2026
LMIA-exempt categories (C16, ICT…)LMIA-exempt work permits under the International Mobility Program: C16 for French speakers, intra-company transfers, trade agreements, IEC and more.Updated October 2026
Who needs a work permit and who doesn'tMost foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada. The exemptions listed by IRCC (business visitors, short-term researchers...) and entry visa rules.Updated October 2026

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