An employer-specific work permit, often called a closed work permit, ties you to one employer, one position and usually one location. Before you can apply, the employer must either obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment from ESDC or, if the position is LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program, submit an offer of employment through the IRCC Employer Portal and pay the compliance fee. Only then does the worker’s application to IRCC begin.
The permit application is where many otherwise strong files fall apart. Officers look for proof that you meet the education and experience the LMIA or offer describes, that your language ability fits the job, that you are medically and criminally admissible, and that your immigration history is consistent. A gap between what the employer told ESDC and what you show IRCC is one of the most common reasons for refusal.
Where you apply also matters. Applications can be made from outside Canada, from inside Canada if you hold valid temporary resident status, or, for some visa-exempt nationals, at a port of entry, although the rules on port-of-entry processing have tightened. Each route has its own requirements for documents, biometrics, medical exams and, if you are already here, maintained status while you wait.
Who this is for
- Foreign nationals with a positive LMIA who need to apply for the work permit itself
- Temporary residents with an LMIA-exempt job offer submitted through the Employer Portal, with an offer of employment number
- Workers changing employers who need a new employer-specific permit before starting the new job
- Employers who want the worker’s application coordinated with their LMIA or offer of employment
What we do
- Confirm the LMIA or offer of employment number, its expiry and the exact position it covers before anything is filed
- Verify that your credentials, experience and language ability match the requirements stated in the LMIA or job offer
- Prepare the complete application package: forms, employment contract, proof of qualifications, police certificates and medical exam where required
- Advise on the right application route (outside Canada, inside Canada or port of entry) and what it means for your status while you wait
- Draft a submission letter that addresses any weakness in your history, such as previous refusals or gaps in status
- Track the application, respond to IRCC requests, and prepare you for the examination if you enter at a port of entry
How it works
- 1
Offer and eligibility check
We review the LMIA or LMIA-exempt job offer alongside your background and confirm that you qualify for the position as described.
- 2
Document preparation
We provide a tailored document list, review everything you gather, and identify anything that could raise an officer’s concern before it does.
- 3
Application and submission
We complete the IRCC forms, draft the submission letter, and file through the correct route with biometrics and medical instructions.
- 4
Follow-up to approval
We monitor the file, handle requests for additional documents, and advise on your first day of work, permit conditions and future extensions.