How to Apply for a Work Permit Using a Positive LMIA in Canada

Your employer just called with great news: ESDC issued a positive LMIA. That document is your ticket to applying for a Canadian work permit — but it does not mean you can start working yet. The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is only step one. The actual work permit is issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), and you must apply separately and be approved before entering Canada or starting work.

This guide explains the work permit application process from the worker's perspective, what documents you need, and what happens after you submit.

What the positive LMIA gives you — and what it does not

A positive LMIA is a confirmation that ESDC approves of the employer hiring a foreign national for a specific role. It is not a visa, not a work permit, and not permission to enter Canada. Think of it as the foundation that makes your IRCC application possible.

The LMIA is employer-specific and position-specific. It names the employer, the job location, the NOC code, the wage, and often the named worker. If any of these details change before you apply, consult an immigration lawyer — you may need the employer to seek an amended or new LMIA.

Step 1: Gather your documents

Before you apply to IRCC, assemble the following:

From your employer

• The original positive LMIA letter (including the LMIA number — you will enter this on the application)
• A written job offer letter on company letterhead that matches the LMIA: job title, duties, wage, hours, location, and start date
• Contact information for the employer's HR contact

Your personal documents

• Valid passport (check the expiry — your work permit cannot extend beyond your passport's validity in most cases; if your passport expires soon, renew it first)
• Educational credentials, diplomas, or professional licences if required for the occupation
• Reference letters or employment history if the job requires demonstrating work experience
• Biometrics — most applicants must provide fingerprints and a photo at a biometric collection centre if they have not already done so; confirm current biometric requirements on Canada.ca
• If applicable: a medical exam from a designated medical practitioner (IME) — IRCC will tell you whether one is required based on your country of nationality and the length of the work permit

If applying from outside Canada

• A Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if required for your nationality — verify on Canada.ca which one applies to your passport

Step 2: Choose the right application method

IRCC offers three routes depending on your situation:

Online application (IRCC Portal) — Most workers apply online through the IRCC secure portal. This is generally the fastest method and allows you to upload documents digitally.

Paper application — Paper is available but slower. Download the appropriate kit from IRCC's website; confirm which forms apply to your situation.

Port of entry (for certain nationalities) — Citizens of countries that do not require a TRV to visit Canada (and who are eligible) may apply for a work permit directly at a Canadian port of entry upon arrival. However, this route carries risk: if the officer is not satisfied, you may be turned away. For LMIA-based permits, applying in advance online is generally the safer approach.

Step 3: Submit and pay fees

Work permit application fees are set by IRCC and are subject to change — verify the current fee on Canada.ca before submitting. Fees are generally non-refundable. If you need an open work permit (which you likely do not with a positive LMIA — see FAQ), additional fees may apply.

Step 4: Wait and respond to any IRCC requests

After submitting, IRCC will review your application. Processing times vary by country of residence, application type, and IRCC workload — check the current processing time estimator on Canada.ca. Do not make irrevocable arrangements (resign from your current job, book flights, give notice on your apartment) until you have the work permit approval in hand.

If IRCC sends a request for additional information (an "Additional Document Request" or a procedural fairness letter), respond promptly and thoroughly. Missing IRCC's deadline can result in the application being returned or refused.

Step 5: Receive your work permit

If approved, IRCC will issue a work permit that specifies:

• Employer name and address
• Job title and NOC code
• Work location (province)
• Start and end date
• Any conditions (e.g., "must work for [Employer Name] only")

An LMIA-based work permit is employer-specific (also called "closed"). You are authorized to work only for the named employer in the named role. Working for a different employer — even temporarily — without authorization is a violation of your permit conditions.

Step 6: Arriving in Canada

If you applied online and are outside Canada, IRCC issues a "port of entry letter of introduction" rather than the physical work permit. You present this letter, along with your passport, at the border. The border officer (CBSA) issues the actual physical work permit at the port of entry. Confirm all conditions on the permit are correct before leaving the border — errors are much harder to fix later.

Frequently asked questions