Canada Work Permit from India – Step-by-Step Guide 2025
Learn how to apply for a Canadian work permit from India in 2025. Full guide on LMIA, visa types, job offer requirements, and application steps.
If you’re an Indian citizen dreaming of working in Canada, you’re not alone. Thousands of skilled professionals, tradespeople, and caregivers migrate every year — and most do so through a Canada Work Permit.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how you can apply for a Canadian work permit from India in 2025 — the types, steps, documents, and costs involved.
What Is a Canada Work Permit?
A work permit allows you to work legally in Canada for a specific employer, job, and time period.
There are two main types:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit (based on LMIA)
- Open Work Permit (fewer restrictions, but limited pathways)
Work Permit Pathways from India
1. LMIA-Based Work Permit
Most common pathway.
- LMIA = Labour Market Impact Assessment
- Employer in Canada must get government approval to hire you
- Once approved, you apply for a closed work permit
- Valid for 1–3 years
- Best for:
- Skilled workers
- Truck drivers
- Caregivers
- Retail supervisors
- Construction workers
2. Global Talent Stream (Fast Track for IT Jobs)
- For highly skilled tech workers
- No LMIA delay (processed in 2 weeks!)
- Employer must be approved under Global Talent Stream
3. Open Work Permit (Spouse or Graduate Pathway)
- For spouses of international students or skilled workers
- Doesn’t require job offer
- Can work for any employer
4. IEC (International Experience Canada)
- Not open to Indians currently — but some Indians with dual citizenship use this.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Canada Work Permit from India
Step 1: Get a Valid Job Offer
Search through:
Ensure your employer can:
- Support LMIA application
- Provide proper job letter and wage
Step 2: Employer Applies for LMIA
- Employer submits to ESDC (Employment & Social Development Canada)
- If approved → you get a copy of the positive LMIA
- This process takes 4–12 weeks
Step 3: Gather Documents for Work Permit
You’ll need:
- Job offer letter + LMIA
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months)
- Proof of work experience (salary slips, reference letters)
- Educational certificates
- IELTS score (for some jobs)
- Police Clearance Certificate
- Medical exam (only for healthcare, children, food workers)
Step 4: Apply Online via IRCC Portal
Apply through:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada.html
Processing time:
- LMIA Work Permit: 8–16 weeks
- Global Talent Stream: 2–4 weeks
Work Permit Fees (2025)
| Type | Fee (CAD) | In INR (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Work Permit (LMIA) | $155 | ₹9,500 |
| Biometrics | $85 | ₹5,200 |
| Open Work Permit | $255 | ₹15,600 |
| Medical Exam (if needed) | ~₹6,000–₹10,000 | Based on hospital |
Pro Tips to Increase Approval
- Submit all documents clearly and in PDF format
- Keep your resume Canadian-style – Download Template
- Don’t use agents who promise fake job offers – Canada is strict
- If rejected, you can reapply with improved documents
What After You Get Work Permit?
- Book your flight and move to Canada
- Apply for SIN (Social Insurance Number)
- Open a bank account
- Start working full-time
- You may become eligible for Permanent Residency (PR) after 1–2 years
Bonus Downloads:
- Free Canadian Resume Template
- [Work Permit Checklist PDF (Coming Soon – Want me to make one?)]
- [Subscribe to get updates on latest LMIA jobs]
Final Thoughts
Getting a work permit from India to Canada isn’t impossible — but it does take effort, planning, and patience. Focus on real job offers, authentic documents, and a clean process. Your dream job in Canada is closer than you think.
Related Articles:
Resume Format for Canadian Jobs →
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