All foreign workers are required to have a valid work permit to work for a Canadian company, entity, or organization. Generally, there are two types of work permits: (1) employer-specific work permits for applications including LMIAs; and (2) open work permits.

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In most cases, a candidate can obtain a work permit if the company first obtains a positive LMIA and provides it to the employee for their work permit application. While the LMIA assess the employer's needs to give the employer permission to hire the foreign worker, the work permit application verifies the applicant's background to determine if they meet Canada's immigration requirements. 

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Applicants usually obtain an open work permit through connection with another immigration programs or through special streams and exceptions. This includes work permits concurrent to spousal sponsorship applications, study permit applications, post-graduate work permits, and refugee programs.

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To learn more about your eligibility for a work permit or to determine your options, book a consultation with HACIC.