RCIC REGISTERED · CANADATEMPORARY RESIDENTWork Permit (LMIA) Consultants in Canada
A Canadian Work Permit authorises a foreign national to work in Canada for a specific employer and period. Most employer-specific work permits require a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), confirming no available Canadian can fill the role.
LMIA applications require precise documentation from both the employer and employee. An RCIC guides the employer through the LMIA process, ensures NOC codes are correctly identified, and prepares a complete work permit application that minimises refusal risk.
Work Permit (LMIA) Consultants
RCIC-registered consultants specialising in Work Permit (LMIA) applications.
Frequently asked questions — Work Permit (LMIA)
What is an LMIA and does my employer need one?
An LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is a document an employer must obtain from ESDC before hiring most foreign workers. It demonstrates the employer tried to hire a Canadian first. Some categories are LMIA-exempt: intracompany transfers (ICT), CUSMA/USMCA professionals, International Experience Canada (IEC), and some provincial PNP streams.
What is an Open Work Permit?
An Open Work Permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada without employer-specific conditions. Examples include: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), spousal/common-law partner of certain work permit holders, and some bridging open work permits for people who have applied for PR. Open WPs do not require an LMIA.
Can a work permit lead to permanent residence?
Yes. Canadian work experience gained on a valid work permit can qualify you for Express Entry (CEC), a PNP stream, or employer-sponsored PR pathways like the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP). An RCIC will map out the most efficient PR pathway from your current work permit.
Can I include my family on my Work Permit?
Your spouse or common-law partner may be eligible for an open spousal work permit if you hold a high-skilled work permit. Dependent children can apply for study permits. An RCIC can advise on the eligibility of accompanying family members.
How long does a Work Permit application take?
Processing times vary by country and application type. Visa-exempt applicants can apply at the port of entry for some positions. Most online applications are processed in 2–8 weeks. LMIA processing at ESDC takes 10–20 business days for regular applications.
Other Canadian immigration pathways
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