Want to Work in Canada? Here’s How to Get a Work Permit
- immigration-conultant
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
Canada is one of the most welcoming countries for foreign workers, offering multiple pathways to live and work legally. Whether you're looking to gain international experience, support your spouse, or move closer to Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), a Canada Work Permit is your gateway.
In this article, we'll walk you through the process of applying for a Canadian work permit, the types available, and essential tips to increase your chances of success in 2025.
Types of Canada Work Permits
There are two main categories of work permits in Canada:
Employer-Specific (Closed) Work Permit
Open Work Permit
Let’s explore the differences below.
Difference Between Open and Closed Work Permit
When considering employment in Canada, understanding the open and closed work permit options is crucial. Each has distinct eligibility criteria, advantages, and restrictions based on your situation.
Open Work Permit
An open work permit is not job-specific, meaning you don’t need a job offer or LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) to apply.
You can work for any employer in Canada, except those listed as ineligible.
This type of Canada work permit provides maximum flexibility.
Common applicants include:
Spouses of international students or skilled workers
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders
Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) applicants
Closed (Employer-Specific) Work Permit
A closed work permit, also known as an employer-specific work permit, is job- and employer-specific.
You can only work for the employer listed on your permit, and an LMIA is required in most cases.
Ideal for:
Foreign nationals hired under the Global Talent Stream or other LMIA-backed jobs
Intra-company transferees
Workers on contractual assignments
Tip: If flexibility and job mobility matter to you, an open work permit might be a better option compared to a closed work permit.
How to Apply for a Canada Work Permit
Step-by-Step Process:
Determine Eligibility: Check whether your situation qualifies for an open or closed permit.
Get a Job Offer (If Needed) For closed permits, a valid job offer and an LMIA are usually required.
Gather Required Documents
Passport
Educational credentials
Work experience proof
Job offer letter (if applicable)
LMIA (if applicable)
Spouse’s study or work permit (if applicable for open permits)
Apply Online or at a VAC. Submit your application through the IRCC portal or via a Visa Application Centre.
Give Biometrics. After submission, you’ll receive a Biometric Instruction Letter (BIL).
Wait for approval.l Processing times vary depending on the country and type of permit.
Is IELTS Mandatory for Canada PR?
Yes, IELTS is mandatory if you are planning to apply for Canada Permanent Residency under most economic immigration programs, like:
Express Entry (Federal Skilled Worker, Canadian Experience Class)
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Minimum Requirements:
CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0 in each band) for FSW
CLB 5–7, depending on the specific program
Note: IELTS is not mandatory for work permits, but it helps prove your English proficiency, especially when applying for jobs or preparing for PR later.
Need Expert Help with Your Work Permit or PR Application?
At GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES, we provide personalized immigration support, document preparation, job assistance, and end-to-end guidance for your journey to Canada.
GO GLOBAL IMMIGRATION SERVICES
Office Address: Office No. 212, Second Floor, Suneja Tower-1, Plot No. 7, District Centre, Janakpuri, New Delhi-110058
Call Us: +91 9266113222 | +91 9266114222 | +91 9266115222
Email: info@ggims.com
Website: www.ggims.com
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