Work Permit Canada

Temporary residence · Work in Canada

Canadian work permit guidance, tailored to your circumstances

Work permit options depend on your circumstances, the type of work and where you are applying from. Brookside Immigration offers professional consultations to help you understand the questions to consider and the next steps to explore.

Start with the right questions

Work permit pathways are not one-size-fits-all

IRCC describes two broad types of work permits: employer-specific and open. The permit type available to an individual depends on eligibility and the details of the situation. Some employer-specific pathways may involve an LMIA; other pathways may be LMIA-exempt.

Application instructions can also vary depending on whether a person is applying from inside or outside Canada. Always check the current official instructions for your situation.

Professional support

Guidance for work permit matters

Depending on the scope of your matter, a consultation may cover:

Pathway discussion

Talk through the purpose of the proposed work and questions about the relevant category.

Application preparation

Discuss forms, supporting information and case-specific considerations relevant to your application.

Extensions or changes

Review questions about changing circumstances, status or existing work authorization.

Family considerations

Discuss whether a family member’s circumstances raise related immigration questions.

Refusals and next steps

Review the reasons provided in a prior decision and consider what options may be available.

Employer coordination

Where relevant, discuss how an employer process may relate to a work permit matter.

A clear process

What to expect from a consultation

  1. Book a consultation using the existing booking page.
  2. Explain your circumstances, including where you are applying from and the work involved.
  3. Discuss relevant questions and any documents or official guidance that may need review.
  4. Understand next steps and confirm any proposed service arrangement before proceeding.

Helpful details to have ready

  • Your current location and immigration status, if applicable
  • The proposed role and employer, if known
  • Any relevant prior applications or decision letters
  • Your questions and key dates

Please wait for secure document-sharing instructions before sending personal records.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a work permit?

Requirements and exemptions depend on the type of work and your circumstances. Use IRCC’s official tool and guidance to check your situation.

Does an LMIA guarantee a work permit?

No. An LMIA and a work permit are separate decisions. A positive decision in one process does not guarantee another immigration outcome.

Can I apply for an open work permit?

Open work permits are available only in certain circumstances. Check current IRCC eligibility information before deciding which instructions apply.

Find out what type of work permit you need — IRCC ↗

Talk through your next step

Get clear guidance on your work permit questions

Book a consultation to discuss your circumstances and the questions that matter to your work permit process.

Book a Consultation

No application outcome or processing time can be guaranteed.