Canada Work Permit Types & Application Process – 2025 Guide
Understand different types of Canada work permits and how to apply from India. Includes LMIA, Open Work Permit, Global Talent Stream, and more.
Introduction
Planning to work in Canada from India?
Canada offers several types of work permits depending on your profession, job offer, and relationship status. Choosing the right permit type is crucial — it affects how you apply, how long you can stay, and even your eligibility for permanent residency later.
In this guide, you’ll learn about all the major Canada work permit types and the step-by-step application process in 2025.
Types of Work Permits in Canada
There are two broad categories:
1. Employer-Specific Work Permit (Closed Work Permit)
You can only work for one employer, at one location, for a specific time.
Most commonly used by:
- Truck drivers
- Caregivers
- Hospitality workers
- Skilled trades
Requires LMIA
2. Open Work Permit
You can work for any employer in Canada, no job offer needed before applying.
Granted to:
- Spouses of skilled workers or international students
- Recent graduates from Canadian institutions
- Refugees or vulnerable workers (in special cases)
No LMIA needed
Major Work Permit Programs Explained
1. LMIA-Based Work Permit
LMIA = Labour Market Impact Assessment
- Your Canadian employer must prove that no Canadian is available for the job
- You apply after LMIA is approved
Best for:
Truck drivers, chefs, welders, mechanics, warehouse workers, and more
Valid for: 1 to 3 years
2. Global Talent Stream (GTS)
A fast-track program under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
Best for:
IT professionals like software engineers, data scientists, UX designers
Processing time: Just 2 weeks!
Job offer from eligible GTS employer is required
3. Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
Given to students who graduate from a Canadian college/university
- No LMIA required
- Open work permit
- Valid for 1–3 years
Pathway to PR via Canadian Experience Class
4. Spousal Open Work Permit
If your spouse is:
- On a study permit
- On a skilled worker permit
You can apply for an open work permit.
No LMIA or job offer required
5. International Mobility Program (IMP)
Includes:
- Intra-company transfers
- NAFTA/FTAs (for other nationalities)
- Special cultural or charitable workers
How to Apply for a Work Permit from India (2025)
Step 1: Choose the Right Permit Type
Use the list above to determine which category fits you.
Step 2: Get a Job Offer (if needed)
Use trusted platforms like:
Ensure your employer can:
- Apply for an LMIA (if required)
- Provide a signed offer letter
Step 3: Gather Documents
Typical documents include:
- Passport
- LMIA or job offer
- Resume (Canadian format – download template)
- Educational/work experience proofs
- IELTS (if needed)
- Police clearance & medical (if required)
Step 4: Apply Online via IRCC Portal
Go to: Canada Immigration Portal
Pay fees:
- Work Permit: CAD $155
- Biometrics: CAD $85
Step 5: Wait for Processing & Biometrics Appointment
- LMIA-based permits take 8–16 weeks
- Global Talent Stream: 2–3 weeks
Step 6: Travel to Canada & Start Working
Once approved, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter. Present it when you land in Canada to get your actual permit.
Quick Comparison Chart
| Type | LMIA Needed | Job Offer Required | Valid For | Can Change Employers? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LMIA Work Permit | Yes | Yes | 1–3 years | No |
| Open Work Permit (Spouse) | No | No | 1–3 years | Yes |
| PGWP | No | No | 1–3 years | Yes |
| Global Talent Stream | Yes | Yes | 1–2 years | No |
Final Thoughts
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to Canadian work permits. Take time to understand which one suits your career, family, and future PR plans.
And remember — always apply with genuine documents and a clear purpose. Canada rewards honesty and skilled migration.
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