ELEVATE YOUR DREAM
WORK PERMIT IMMIGRATION PATH
Apply for a work permit upon receiving a job offer from a Canadian employer. Depending on your profile, you may need an LMIA prior to obtaining your work permit or you may be exempt from this requirement. Gaining Canadian work experience will open various pathways for permanent residency.
Job Offer
✓ You receive a job offer from a Canadian employer
Apply for a Work Permit
✓ Your employer receives a positive LMIA.
✓ You apply for a work permit and visa.
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Apply for a Work Permit if
✓ You qualify for a program under a free trade agreement between your country and Canada.
OR
✓ You have an intermediate level of French proficiency.
Apply for an LMIA
✓ If there are no free trade agreements with your country and you do not communicate in french, your employer needs to request an LMIA.
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Permanent Residency Application
✓ Apply for permanent residency based on the best program for you:
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
From Work Permit to Permanent Residency
Explore the different pathways to permanent residency after securing a job offer from a Canadian employer. Depending on your professional profile, you may qualify to apply immediately or may need to work in Canada for at least a year before applying. Options include the Express Entry program or Provincial Nomination.
IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS
Key Insights and Essential Information
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You must have a job offer from a Canadian employer to apply for a work permit. Usually the wage will need to be equal to the median wage for the same position in the geographical location of the job.
*Only special circumstances can allow for an open work permit without a job offer. For example being the spouse of a master’s student.
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You must have related work experience prior to applying. Most programs require 2 years of previous work experience while some request 4 years. This will depend on the job title, the LMIA or the free trade agreement used for your application.
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Intermediate English or French language skills are crucial for obtaining a work permit and succeeding in the Canadian job market. You may need to take an approved language test.
If you can communicate in French, you may be eligible for the Mobilité Francophone work permit.
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Many work permits offer a pathway to permanent residency, such as through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under the Express Entry system.
Some jobs have priority over others in both the federal program and the provincial program.
Business Immigration
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Professionals & Students
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Work Permits
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Permanent Residency
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Students
Business Immigration • Professionals & Students • Work Permits • Permanent Residency • Students
MEETING
Take the First Step
Book a meeting with our experienced team to discuss your immigration options. Let’s create a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and simplifies your path to Canada. Your future begins with one conversation.
Business Immigration
•
Professionals & Students
•
Work Permits
•
Permanent Residency
•
Students
Business Immigration • Professionals & Students • Work Permits • Permanent Residency • Students
MEETING
Take the First Step
Book a meeting with our experienced team to discuss your immigration options. Let’s create a personalized plan that aligns with your goals and simplifies your path to Canada. Your future begins with one conversation.
Related Videos
Learn about the work permit process with videos covering job offers, permit applications, and pathways to residency.
