Canada employer-specific work permits in 2026

IRCC distinguishes employer-specific work permits from open work permits. An employer-specific permit normally identifies the employer and may also restrict location or occupation.

The employer must determine whether the job needs a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or qualifies for an LMIA exemption.

LMIA-required jobs

Where an LMIA is required, the employer applies through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program. A positive LMIA supports the worker's separate IRCC work-permit application; it is not itself a work permit.

LMIA-exempt employment

The International Mobility Program contains LMIA exemptions for defined situations such as some free-trade-agreement workers and Francophone Mobility. Employer Portal and compliance-fee steps can still apply.

Open work permits are only available in specified circumstances. Most people outside Canada cannot simply choose an open permit because they have no job offer.

The Global Skills Strategy can provide faster processing for eligible complete high-skilled cases, but it is a service standard, not a separate visa or approval guarantee.

Entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals whose Canadian activity may create significant economic, social or cultural benefit should also read the significant-benefit entrepreneur work permit guide. That LMIA exemption is fact-specific and is not the same as a provincial business-immigration work permit.

Remote workers for foreign employers should read the digital nomad visitor guide. Youth-mobility applicants should review IEC.

Verified against IRCC on 18 September 2026.

Official and supporting sources

Related routes in Canada