As an immigration lawyer, I understand how important it is for foreign nationals to obtain a work permit to work in Canada. In this guide, I will explain the different types of work permits available and how to apply for each one. I will also cover the eligibility requirements, LMIA, job offer requirement, supporting documents, processing times, and what to do if your application is refused.

 
Types of Work Permits:

1. LMIA-Exempt Work Permit This type of work permit is available for individuals who are exempt from obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This could be because they fall under one of the following categories:

1.  Intra-Company Transfer
2.  NAFTA Professionals
3.  International Mobility Program
4.  Significant Benefit

To apply for an LMIA-exempt work permit, the individual must meet the specific requirements of the category they fall under. They must also provide supporting documents such as a job offer letter and a valid passport.

 
2. LMIA-Required Work Permit A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required for this type of work permit. The employer must obtain an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before the foreign national can apply for the work permit. The employer must demonstrate that there are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to do the job.
The foreign national must provide supporting documents such as a job offer letter and proof of qualifications. They must also undergo a medical examination and obtain a police certificate.

 
3. Open Work Permit An open work permit allows the foreign national to work for any employer in Canada. This type of work permit is available for the following individuals:

1. Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students
2. International students who have graduated from a Canadian educational institution
3. Individuals who have been accepted into Canada as refugees or protected persons
4. Individuals who have applied for permanent residence in Canada

The eligibility requirements and supporting documents vary depending on the category the individual falls under.

 
How to Apply for a Work Permit:

The application process for a work permit depends on the type of work permit being applied for. Generally, the individual must submit an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) either online or by mail. They must provide the necessary documents and pay the required fee.
Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for a work permit, the individual must meet the following requirements:

1. Be admissible to Canada
2. Have a job offer from a Canadian employer
3. Be able to prove that they will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay
4. Have enough funds to support themselves and their family members while in Canada
5. Meet the specific requirements of the work permit category they are applying under

LMIA: If an LMIA is required, the employer must first obtain the LMIA from ESDC. The LMIA application must demonstrate that there are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to do the job. The employer must also provide details of the job offer, including wages and working conditions.

 
Job Offer: The job offer must be from a Canadian employer and must include details of the job, including the job title, duties, and wages. The job offer must be genuine and the employer must be able to demonstrate that they are offering wages and working conditions that are consistent with Canadian standards.
Supporting Documents: The specific supporting documents required depend on the type of work permit being applied for. Generally, the following documents are required:

• A valid passport

• Proof of qualifications and work experience

• A job offer letter

• Proof of financial support

• A medical exam

• Police certificate

Processing Times: The processing times for a work permit application vary depending on the type of work permit being applied for and the location of the visa office. Generally, processing times range from