1. Open Work Permits
Open Work Permits allow foreign nationals to work for any employer in Canada (with a few exceptions), without needing a job offer or LMIA. These permits are ideal for individuals who need flexibility or who are not tied to a specific employer.
Common types of Open Work Permits:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): For international students who have completed a program at a designated Canadian learning institution. Valid for up to 3 years, depending on the length of the program.
- Spousal Open Work Permit: For spouses or common-law partners of:
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents being sponsored for permanent residence (inside Canada).
- Temporary foreign workers in high-skilled occupations.
- International students with a valid study permit.
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP): For workers already in Canada who have applied for permanent residence under certain economic immigration streams and need to maintain status while waiting for a decision.
- Refugee Claimants and Protected Persons: Individuals with pending refugee claims or who have received protected status may also be eligible for an open work permit.
2. International Experience Canada (IEC)
IEC offers young adults from over 30 partner countries the chance to work and travel in Canada. This program does not require an LMIA and is divided into three categories:
- Working Holiday: Open work permit for up to 2 years (depending on nationality). No job offer needed.
- Young Professionals: Requires a job offer in a skilled occupation that contributes to the applicant’s professional development.
- International Co-op (Internship): For students who need to complete a work placement or internship in Canada.
Note: Each country has different eligibility rules and quotas, so it’s important to check specific agreements.
3. Spousal Work Permits
As mentioned above, spouses of certain individuals can apply for an open work permit without an LMIA. This is especially common in two contexts:
- Spouses of international students can apply if the student is studying full-time at a public post-secondary institution.
- Spouses of skilled foreign workers (usually in TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3 under the NOC system) can also obtain open work permits.
This route supports family unity and provides financial flexibility for couples in Canada.
4. LMIA-Exempt Work Permits Under International Agreements
Canada is party to various international trade and mobility agreements that allow certain foreign workers to enter the Canadian labour market without needing an LMIA. These are processed under the International Mobility Program (IMP).
Key agreements and exemptions:
- CUSMA (formerly NAFTA): Allows citizens of the U.S. and Mexico to work in Canada under categories like intra-company transferees, professionals, traders, and investors.
- CETA (Canada–EU): Offers similar pathways for certain professionals and business visitors from EU countries.
- Intra-Company Transfers: Employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Canadian branch may be eligible, especially executives, senior managers, and those with specialized knowledge.
- Significant Benefit to Canada: If hiring a foreign worker offers a cultural, social, or economic benefit, such as in academic, artistic, or research roles, a work permit may be granted without an LMIA.
5. Other LMIA-Exempt Situations
- Charitable or Religious Work: Certain workers involved in genuine charitable or religious activities may be exempt from an LMIA.
- Canada’s Francophone Mobility Program: French-speaking foreign nationals working outside Quebec in skilled roles can obtain an LMIA-exempt work permit to promote linguistic diversity.
- Permanent Residence Applicants with Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR): In some cases, applicants for permanent residence may qualify for a bridging open work permit once they receive their AOR.
