Temporary Residence
Employer-Specific Work Permit
A work permit tied to a specific Canadian employer and job offer.
Overview
An employer-specific work permit authorizes a foreign worker to work for one named employer, in a specific job, usually for a set period, based on the conditions listed on the permit.
Most employer-specific permits are supported by either a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA exemption under a specific program category. For LMIA-exempt jobs, the employer submits an offer of employment through the IRCC Employer Portal, pays the employer compliance fee and gives the worker the offer of employment number needed to apply.
Because the permit is tied to the employer and role, a job or employer change generally requires a new application.
Who may consider this: Workers with a confirmed Canadian job offer who need a permit tied to that specific employer.
Eligibility Considerations
- A genuine, specific job offer from a Canadian employer
- A positive LMIA, or a valid LMIA exemption category
- Qualifications and experience matching the job offer
- The employer meeting its compliance obligations
- No criminal or medical inadmissibility concerns
How It Works
Job Offer Review
We review the job offer and determine whether it needs an LMIA or qualifies for an exemption.
LMIA or Exemption Pathway
We help the employer complete the LMIA process, or identify the correct exemption and guide the employer through the Employer Portal offer and compliance fee.
Worker Qualification Check
We confirm your experience and credentials match what the job offer requires.
Application Preparation
The work permit application is prepared with the job offer, the LMIA or offer of employment number, and your documents.
Submission
The application is usually made from outside Canada, from inside Canada in some cases, or at a port of entry in limited cases, with biometrics where required.
Government Processing
IRCC reviews the application against the job offer and your qualifications.
Permit Issuance
Once approved, the permit is issued for the named employer and role.
Documents You May Need
Document requirements vary by applicant and pathway — not every applicant needs every item below. We confirm your specific list during an assessment.
- Written job offer or employment contract
- Positive LMIA, or the offer of employment number for an LMIA-exempt job
- Proof of qualifications and relevant experience
- Licence or certification for regulated occupations, where required
- Valid passport and photos
- Employer compliance fee payment confirmation, for LMIA-exempt jobs
Common Issues to Watch For
These are presented to help you prepare, not to cause concern — most are avoidable with careful preparation.
- A mismatch between your experience and the job offer's requirements
- Submitting before the LMIA or exemption process is actually complete
- Incomplete employer compliance documentation
- Job duties on the offer that don't match the National Occupational Classification used
How We Help
- Review whether the job offer needs an LMIA or qualifies for an exemption
- Coordinate with the employer on compliance requirements, including the Employer Portal offer for LMIA-exempt jobs
- Confirm your qualifications align with the role before submission
- Prepare a complete application package for both worker and employer documentation
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I change employers on this permit?+
Generally no — an employer-specific permit is tied to the named employer and role, so a change usually requires a new application.
Does every job offer need an LMIA?+
No. Some categories are LMIA-exempt under specific international agreements or program rules, which we assess based on the job and your background.
Who applies for the LMIA — me or my employer?+
The employer applies for the LMIA. We can support the employer through that process or work from an LMIA they've already obtained.
Can this lead to permanent residence?+
Canadian work experience under this permit can support certain permanent residence pathways, such as Express Entry's Canadian Experience Class, depending on your specific profile.
Can I apply without a job offer?+
No. An employer-specific permit needs a genuine job offer supported by an LMIA or an LMIA exemption. Without one, other routes may fit, such as an open work permit through a family member or program, International Experience Canada or studying in Canada — we can assess what's realistic for you.
The information on this website is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration policies, fees, processing times, and eligibility requirements change frequently. Please verify current requirements with official government sources or a qualified immigration professional before making decisions.