Back to visa checker
Canada · Work visa
Work Permit (LMIA-based)
- Processing
- LMIA: 2-4 months
- Cost
- From CA$1,155
- Validity
- Up to 3 years
Employer-sponsored work permit that requires a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Requirements
- Job offer from Canadian employer
- Employer obtains positive LMIA
- Qualification and experience for the position
- Proof of funds, ties to home country
Time and cost
- Processing time
- LMIA: 2-4 months, Work Permit: 2-4 weeks
- Validity
- Up to 3 years
- Cost
From CA$1,155
Required
- CA$155 work permit fee
- CA$1,000 LMIA fee
- Path to residency
- Express Entry with Canadian work experience
Documents
Valid passport
With adequate validity
LMIA letter
From employer
Job offer letter
Detailed offer
Proof of qualifications
Degrees, certifications
Tips
- The Global Talent Stream can reduce LMIA processing to 2 weeks for eligible technology roles
- Tech roles often qualify for expedited processing
- Visa-exempt nationals, including US citizens, may apply at a port of entry instead of applying in advance; Mexican citizens have needed a visa since 2024 and generally apply from outside Canada