Canada’s work permit is a gateway for skilled professionals, skilled trades, students and families to contribute to the country’s economy. In this guide we break down the two primary types of work permits- Employer Specific and Open Work Permit.
- Employer-Specific Work Permits
An employer- specific work permit (also known as closed work permit) bound you to a single employer, job and location.
Key features are:
- Conditions: You can only work for the employer named on your permit, in the role and location specified.
- Requirements:
- A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (unless exempt) to prove no Canadian citizen or permanent resident could fill the role.
- An offer of employment number for LMIA-exempt roles (e.g., under international agreements like CUSMA or the Francophone Mobility Program).
Francophone LMIA Exemption
Canada’s Francophone Mobility Program allows employers to hire French-speaking foreign workers without an LMIA in Francophone minority communities outside Quebec.
Key details:
- Eligibility:
- The job must be in a TEER category 0-3 (managerial, professional, technical, or skilled trades roles).
- The position must be outside Quebec and support Francophone economic growth.
- The worker must demonstrate French-language proficiency (CLB 5 or equivalent).
- Benefits:
- No LMIA required, accelerating the hiring process.
- Priority processing for applications.
- Pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Opportunity for: French-speaking professionals in sectors like education, healthcare, or technology seeking opportunities in provinces like Ontario, New Brunswick, or Manitoba.
- Open Work Permits
An open work permit offers flexibility to work for almost any employer in Canada.
Key advantages include:
- No job offer required: Apply without employer support.
- Eligibility scenarios:
- Spouses of skilled workers or international students.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders.
- Refugees, asylum seekers, or vulnerable workers.
- Restrictions: Cannot work for employers offering adult entertainment or listed as non-compliant.
Opportunity for: Graduates, spouses of temporary residents, or those awaiting permanent residency decisions.
Key Differences between Closed Work Permit & Open Work Permit
| Feature | Employer-Specific Permit | Open Work Permit |
| Employer Flexibility | Tied to one employer | Work for any compliant employer |
| LMIA Requirement | Usually required (unless exempt*) | Not required |
| Job Offer Needed | Yes | No |
| Validity Period | Matches job contract (up to 2 years) | Varies (e.g., PGWP: up to 3 years) |
| Path to PR | Possible via Express Entry/CEC | Often accelerates PR applications |
*LMIA exemptions apply to roles under CUSMA, Francophone Mobility Program, or Global Talent Stream.
Eligibility and Application Process
Employer-Specific Work Permits
- Employer’s Role:
- Obtain an LMIA (if required) or submit an offer via the Employer Portal.
- For Francophone Mobility Program: Submit proof the role supports Francophone communities and verify French proficiency.
- Applicant’s Role:
- Submit proof of qualifications, language proficiency (if applicable), and pay fees ($155 CAD+).
Processing Time: 120-150 days (standard LMIA) vs. 2-4 weeks for Francophone Mobility applications.
Open Work Permits
- Determine Eligibility: Common pathways include PGWP, spousal sponsorship, or BOWP.
- Application: Submit proof of eligibility (e.g., graduation certificate, marriage proof) and pay fees ($100–255 CAD).
Benefits and Limitations
Employer-Specific Permits
- ✅ Stability: Secure employment with a designated employer.
- ✅ LMIA Exemptions: Available for roles under CUSMA, Global Talent Stream, or Francophone Mobility Program.
- ❌ Limited Mobility: Changing jobs requires a new permit.
Open Work Permits
- ✅ Flexibility: Switch employers or roles freely.
- ✅ No LMIA: Streamlined application process.
- ❌ Eligibility Restrictions: Limited to specific groups.
FAQs
Q: Can French-speaking workers apply without an LMIA?
Yes! The Francophone Mobility Program exempts LMIA requirements for French-speaking professionals in TEER 0-3 roles outside Quebec.
Q: Can my family work in Canada while I hold a work permit?
Yes, spouses may qualify for open work permits, and children can study.
Q: How long is a Francophone Mobility work permit valid?
Typically up to 2 years, renewable if eligibility criteria are met.
Why Choose Eiffel Immigration?
Navigating Canada’s work permit system requires expertise. At Eiffel Immigration, we offer:
- LMIA & Francophone Mobility Support: Simplify compliance for employers and candidates.
- PGWP Guidance: Maximize post-graduation opportunities.
- Family Sponsorship: Secure work permits for spouses and dependents.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an employer seeking talent or a professional pursuing Canadian opportunity, understanding work permit options is critical. Employer-specific permits (including LMIA exemptions like the Francophone Mobility Program) offer targeted employment, while open permits provide flexibility.