Work Permit - Workers who already have an LMIA

WORK PERMIT – WORKER WITH LMIA

KeyApply assists clients in preparing work permit applications when they have a positive LMIA or when their employer is in the process of obtaining an LMIA.

Note: An LMIA is not a work permit and does not guarantee that a work permit application will be approved. The worker must still meet the requirements of the job position and the conditions for entry/working in Canada.

BASIC PROCESS

1. The employer applies for an LMIA with Employment and Social Development Canada/Service Canada if the position requires one.
2. Upon receiving a positive LMIA, the employer provides the LMIA and the employment contract/job offer to the worker.
3. The worker prepares and submits a work permit application to IRCC, including documents proving they meet the job requirements.
4. IRCC may request biometrics, a medical exam, police certificates, or additional documents depending on the application.
5. If approved, the worker follows the instructions provided by IRCC to enter Canada and receive their work permit.

WORKING IN QUÉBEC

For temporary employment in Québec exceeding 30 days under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, employers must generally complete the LMIA process with Service Canada and the relevant Québec requirements; workers usually need a CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate) before applying for a work permit, unless exempted by regulation.

As of March 13, 2026, Québec and the Canadian government are applying temporary measures for certain foreign workers currently in Québec who are eligible to renew their work permits without a new LMIA. Whether one falls under this category must be verified based on specific conditions at the time of application.

DOCUMENTS WORKERS USUALLY NEED TO PREPARE

• Passport and proof of current status in Canada, if already in Canada.
• Copy of the positive LMIA and job offer/employment contract from the employer.
• CAQ if the work is in Québec and that specific case requires it.
• CV, educational credentials/professional certifications, and practice licenses if required by the profession.
• Letters verifying work experience, pay stubs, bank statements, or other documents proving experience when needed.
• Photos, biometrics, and medical exam results if requested by IRCC.
• Other documents depending on the applicant's circumstances and IRCC requirements.

ACCOMPANYING SPOUSE AND CHILDREN

The ability to apply for an open work permit for a spouse or documentation for children depends on the type of work permit, the profession/TEER, the remaining validity of the permit, and the IRCC regulations in effect at the time of application. Not everyone with an LMIA/work permit is automatically eligible to bring their spouse to Canada on an open work permit.

FEES NOT INCLUDED

• Government fees, biometrics, and medical exam fees.
• Translation, notarization/certification, and third-party costs.
• LMIA fees and services for employers if an LMIA is not yet obtained.
• CAQ and related Québec costs if applicable.

Immigration applications are handled by an RCIC/lawyer in accordance with the scope of services. Conditions and procedures may change; applications are assessed based on regulations in force at the time of submission.