Work
LMIA — Employer-Specific Work Permit
Foreign nationals looking to work in Canada usually obtain one of two main types of work permit: the open work permit, or the employer-specific work permit.
What is an Employer-Specific Work Permit?
An employer-specific work permit allows foreign nationals to work according to the conditions on the work permit. It limits a foreign national to one employer, in one position, in Canada.
What is an LMIA and do you need it?
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document an employer in Canada needs before hiring a foreign worker. It shows there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job and that the employer could not find a Canadian worker or permanent resident for that role. It is not always required if the occupation is exempt; if the person does not fit an exempt category, they are still eligible for an employer-specific work permit but will need an LMIA beforehand.
General Eligibility
- You must satisfy the immigration officer that you will leave as soon as your work permit expires.
- You have sufficient finances to support yourself and any accompanying people.
- You have a clean criminal record and pose no threat to Canada’s security.
- You have no serious medical issues that may affect the Canadian population.
- You are not working for an employer listed as ineligible for non-compliance, or one dealing in escort/erotic services.
Occupations that may use an employer-specific work permit
- Applicants who are part of the Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program (AIPP)
- Dancers, actors, orchestral musicians, opera singers or someone in a related field
- Entrepreneurs
- Film or television production workers
- French-speaking skilled workers who intend to work in a Francophone community outside Quebec
- Intra-company transferees
- Professional athletes or coaches
- Provincial Nominated applicants who have a job offer
- Religious workers or someone doing charitable work
- Repair or maintenance workers for industrial or commercial equipment
- Researchers at certain Canadian institutions
- Start-up Visa program applicants
- Workers under a federal-provincial/territorial agreement
Limitations
Employer-specific work permits state the name of the employer you may work for, the duration of employment allowed, and the specific location of employment. To apply, you must obtain the positive LMIA decision letter from your employer and demonstrate that you meet the required experience and/or education for the position.
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