Types of Work Visas in Canada 2025—There are several types of work visas in Canada, each with its own set of features and benefits. People who are looking to work in Canada should be familiar with these different types of work visas. This blog post will provide an overview of these visas so that you can make an informed decision about which visa is best for your needs.
Purpose of Work Visa
Working in Canada as a foreign national is an exciting prospect, but it’s also one that requires careful consideration. The easiest way to get legal permission to work in the country is with a work visa.
A work visa allows foreign nationals to work in Canada for a specific employer, and these visas often come with built-in features and benefits such as health insurance, employment rights, and legal protections.
The length of time for which these visas are issued may range from several months to several years, depending on the individual’s job requirements. No matter what kind of work you’re looking for in Canada, researching available visa options and consulting an immigration specialist can ensure that your experience abroad is as smooth and trouble-free as possible.
Types of Work Visas in Canada
There are four main types of work visas in Canada mentioned below:
- The Open Work Permit
- The Employer-Specific Work Permit
- The Post-Graduation Work Permit
- The Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
Working in Canada can be a great opportunity for people from all around the world. There are four main types of work visas available to potential immigrants, each ranging in eligibility and scope.
The Open Work Permit allows foreign workers access to most jobs without requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
The Employer-Specific Work Permit limits the immigrant to the employer that issued it, with the requirement of an LMIA assessment.
A Post-Graduation Work Permit is granted to international students who graduate from eligible Canadian post-secondary study programs and applies only within the field of study they graduated in and/or within a related field.
Finally, the Intra-Company Transfer Work Permits are designed to provide current employees with intra-company transfer opportunities between two or more affiliated corporations operating on an international scale. Each of these work visas has their own set of features and benefits that can help migrants obtain legal residence while working in Canada and taking advantage of the many opportunities offered here.
1. The Open Work Permit
Description: An Open Work Permit allows individuals to work for any employer in Canada, without the need for a job offer at the time of application. It provides flexibility and is not employer-specific.
Eligibility: Common recipients include spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students, refugees, and individuals applying under specific immigration programs.
Key Features:
No need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Permits work across multiple employers and locations in Canada.
Use Case: Often used by those accompanying family members to Canada or individuals transitioning to permanent residency.
2. The Employer-Specific Work Permit
Description: This work permit ties the worker to a specific employer and job. It is issued for a specific duration and requires the employer’s compliance with Canadian immigration laws.
Eligibility: Applicants must have a job offer from a Canadian employer and, in most cases, the employer must secure a positive LMIA to prove the need for a foreign worker.
Key Features:
Work is restricted to the employer and job listed on the permit.
Conditions like job location, duration, and role are explicitly mentioned.
Use Case: Suitable for individuals hired by a Canadian employer for a specific role, often in skilled or specialized professions.
3. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Description: The PGWP is specifically for international students who have completed an eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada. It enables them to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Eligibility: Graduates must apply within 180 days of receiving confirmation that they have completed their program. The permit duration depends on the length of the study program, up to a maximum of three years.
Key Features:
Open permit allowing work with any employer.
Helps graduates qualify for permanent residency pathways, such as the Canadian Experience Class.
Use Case: Ideal for international students aiming to establish their careers in Canada after their studies.
4. The Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
Description: This permit allows employees of multinational companies to transfer to their Canadian office or subsidiary. It is part of Canada’s commitment to international business and trade agreements.
Eligibility: Applicants must have been employed with the foreign entity for at least one year and be transferring to a managerial or specialized knowledge position.
Key Features:
No LMIA is required.
Work permit is limited to the specific employer and role within the company.
Use Case: Beneficial for multinational corporations looking to transfer experienced employees to their Canadian operations.
Open Work Permit Vs Employer Specific Work Permit
Open Work Permit allows foreign workers to work for any employer in Canada, while the Employer-Specific Work Permit is only valid for one specific employer.
The Open Work Permit lets foreign nationals take full advantage of Canada’s labour force in any province or industry. It provides the ability to change employers freely, empowering holders to make career advancements more easily. On the other hand, an Employer-Specific Work Permit limits a worker to one specific employer, yet it can be advantageous in certain circumstances. This type of permit may provide access to better wage rates by eliminating competition from foreign workers for that particular job. Ultimately both options give qualified applicants the opportunity to become contributing members of Canada’s workforce and experience life as a Canadian.
The Post-Graduation Work Permit Vs Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa
The Post-Graduation Work Permit allows you, as a recent graduate, to gain work experience in your field of study. This permit lets you stay in Canada for up to three years, giving you the opportunity to find relevant employment and build valuable connections in your industry.
If a multinational company already employs you and they need your expertise in their Canadian branch, the Intra-Company Transfer Work Visa may be the right option for you. This visa allows you to be temporarily transferred to Canada while continuing to work for the same company.
Each work visa has different requirements and benefits, so it’s important for you to choose the one that fits your situation best.
How to choose the right work visa in Canada for yourself?
It can be difficult to make the right decision when choosing a work visa in Canada, especially since each visa has unique eligibility requirements and benefits. However, knowing your individual skillset as well as other pertinent information, like the sector in which you would like to work, will help you make an informed decision.
It’s also helpful to gather more information about each visa; for instance, some visas may have restrictions on how many hours you are allowed to work or aren’t eligible for Permanent Residency. But no matter which type of visa you choose, it’s important to remember that there are numerous opportunities for skilled workers in Canada that can help further your career.
Applying for a work visa in Canada is no easy task, given the country’s strict policies and procedures. However, taking the time to research, plan and put meticulous preparation into such an application can give applicants a much greater chance of success.
With all the exciting features and benefits that come with having a work permit in Canada, it’s certainly worth all the effort! Understanding each step of the application process, from eligibility criteria to documents required and deadlines to apply by, will help ensure that those wishing to live and work in Canada on a temporary basis have a smooth journey toward obtaining their cherished work visa.
Conclusion
Work visas are a great way for foreign nationals to gain temporary work experience in Canada. There are four main types of work visas, each with its own eligibility requirements and benefits. The process of applying for a work visa can be complex, but with careful planning and preparation, it is possible to obtain the necessary permit to live and work in Canada on a temporary basis.
We hope you understand everything regarding the types of work visas in Canada, and if you are still confused or interested in Study Abroad at affordable fees, then we are here to your rescue. At SecureMyScholarship, we offer students full assistance with their university application process the visa process. Fill out the form and get in touch with us today.
FAQs about Types of Work Visas in Canada
Q1. Is it easy to get a work visa in Canada?
Getting a work visa in Canada can be simple for some but more challenging for others. The Canadian government has various programs to help you enter the country as a foreign worker.
The requirements for your work visa depend on several factors. These include your country of origin, the type of work you plan to do, and how long you will stay in Canada. There are two main types of work permits: employer-specific and open work permits.
An employer-specific work permit requires a job offer from a Canadian employer. Your employer must also get a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This proves that no Canadians or permanent residents are available for the job.
An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada. You don’t need a job offer to apply for this permit. It’s often given to those already in Canada on another permit, such as a study permit or a spouse/partner visa.
Canada offers many pathways for foreign workers like you. However, the process can be complex and time-consuming. Be sure to research the specific requirements for your situation. You should also consult a qualified immigration professional if needed.
Q2. Can a Canada work visa get rejected?
Yes, it is possible. The Canadian government has strict eligibility criteria that applicants must meet in order to be granted a work visa. Some of the common reasons for a work visa application rejection include:
Incomplete or incorrect application:
The authorities will reject your application if it is incomplete, missing required documents, or not submitted in the proper format.
Inadmissibility:
The authorities will reject your application if you have a criminal history, security concerns, health issues, or if you provide false information.
Insufficient evidence of job offer:
If you can’t provide proof of a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, your application will be rejected.
Insufficient evidence of financial support:
You cannot get a work visa if you don’t have enough financial resources to support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Canada,
Failure to meet eligibility requirements:
The university will reject your application if you fail to meet the specific eligibility requirements for a work permit.
However, a rejection doesn’t always mean the applicant is ineligible to work in Canada. In some cases, they may be able to reapply or appeal the decision. If the authorities reject your application or if you have concerns about the process, consult with a qualified immigration professional.
Q3. Can I get a work visa for Canada without IELTS?
In most cases, obtaining a work visa for Canada requires proof of language proficiency. You can demonstrate this by taking an approved test, such as IELTS or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).
Language skills are crucial for working in Canada, as they ensure effective communication with co-workers, customers, and clients. Some jobs, particularly in healthcare and education, also require proof of language proficiency.
However, there are exceptions. Individuals from certain countries may not need to take a language test. This applies if they completed their education in English or French. It also applies if they have worked in an English or French-speaking country for a specific period of time.
Work visa requirements in Canada can vary depending on the job and length of stay. It’s best to consult with an immigration professional or review the Government of Canada’s website to determine your specific requirements.
Q4. How much does a work visa cost in Canada?
The fees for a work visa in Canada depend on the type of work permit being applied for and the country of origin of the applicant.
As of February 2025, the fees for some common types of work permits are as follows:
Work permit (including extensions): CAD 155 per person
Open work permit holder: CAD 100 per person
Employer compliance fee: CAD 230 per employer
International Mobility Program work permit: CAD 155 per person
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): CAD 1,000 per position
These fees can change, and extra charges may apply depending on the application. Besides work permit fees, you may also need to pay for services like biometrics or medical exams.
Check Canada’s immigration website or consult an immigration professional for the correct fees. Make sure you pay the fees in full and in the correct currency to avoid delays or rejection of the application.
Q5. How many years does Canada give for a working visa?
The duration of a work permit in Canada depends on factors like the job role and length of stay. Work permits allow your stay duration ranging from a few months to several years. The maximum length is usually four years.
After a work permit expires, individuals may be able to apply for a new one based on their circumstances.
Some programs, like those for intra-company transferees, allow permits valid for up to five years. Certain workers may also qualify for permanent residence, enabling them to live and work in Canada without a permit.
Applicants should consult an immigration professional or review the Government of Canada’s website for specific requirements.
Q6. How many types of work visas are there in Canada?
Canada offers various types of work visas, primarily categorized into four main types: Open Work Permit, Employer-Specific Work Permit, Post-Graduation Work Permit, and Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit.
Q7. What are the 4 types of visas in Canada?
The 4 types of work visas in Canada are:
- Open Work Permit
- Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Post-Graduation Work Permit
- Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
Q8. Which work permit is best in Canada?
The best work permit in Canada depends on individual needs. The Open Work Permit is highly flexible as it allows individuals to work for any employer, whereas the Post-Graduation Work Permit is ideal for international students aiming for permanent residency.
Q9. What is the 2-year work permit in Canada?
A 2-year work permit in Canada often refers to a work permit issued for a duration of two years, commonly seen with the Post-Graduation Work Permit (based on the length of study) or employer-specific permits tied to job contracts.
Q10. How many types of work permits are there in Canada?
There are primarily two broad categories of work permits in Canada:
- Open Work Permits (not employer-specific).
- Employer-Specific Work Permits (tied to a specific employer and job).
Q11. Which work permit is good in Canada?
For flexibility, the Open Work Permit is ideal as it allows working for any employer. For career-focused opportunities, the Employer-Specific Work Permit suits individuals with job offers in specialized fields.
Q12. What are the different types of work permits?
The main types of work permits in Canada are:
- Open Work Permit
- Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Post-Graduation Work Permit
- Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
Q13. What are the different types of work visas in Canada?
Canada offers various work visas, including:
- Open Work Permit
- Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Post-Graduation Work Permit
- Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
Q14. How much is a 2-year work permit in Canada?
The cost of a work permit in Canada varies. The basic fee for most work permits is CAD 155, but additional fees may apply depending on the type of permit and application specifics.
Q15. What is the LMIA work visa?
The LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) work visa refers to an Employer-Specific Work Permit issued after the employer obtains a positive LMIA. This assessment proves the need to hire a foreign worker for a specific job when no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available.
