Do I need a job offer to use IMM 1295?

Only for employer-specific work permits. Most open work permit applications do not require a specific job offer, though eligibility rules still apply.

What is the difference between IMM 1295 for open versus employer-specific permits?

The form is the same, but employer-specific applications generally require job offer and Labour Market Impact Assessment details that open work permit applications do not.

Where do I get the current IMM 1295 form?

Download it directly from the official IRCC work permit application page immediately before completing it, since older versions are rejected.

Can I apply for a work permit from inside Canada using this form?

Some applicants inside Canada follow a different process. Confirm your eligibility and the correct application method on the current IRCC work permit page.

IMM 1295: Application for Work Permit

Last updated August 3, 2026 · Reviewed by Immigration Content Lead · Review cadence 60 days

Quick answer

IMM 1295 is the application form most applicants use to apply for a Canadian work permit from outside Canada. It captures details about the applicant, the intended employment, and, for employer-specific permits, information linking the application to a job offer or Labour Market Impact Assessment where applicable.

Key takeaways

IMM 1295 is the standard work permit application form for most applicants applying from outside Canada.
It differs slightly in required attachments depending on whether the permit is employer-specific or open.
Employer-specific applications often need to reference a Labour Market Impact Assessment or exemption.
The current version must always come directly from the official IRCC page before use.
Applicants inside Canada may sometimes follow a different application process; confirm current eligibility.
Errors matching job offer or LMIA details are a common source of processing delays.

Purpose

IMM 1295 is used by most applicants to apply for a Canadian work permit, authorizing temporary employment in Canada. Depending on the type of work permit sought, the form connects to different supporting evidence: employer-specific permits generally require information tied to a job offer, while open work permits do not require a specific employer or job offer in most cases.

This guide explains the form's purpose only. Always complete the current version downloaded from the official IRCC page.

When to use it

Use IMM 1295 when applying for a work permit from outside Canada, for either an employer-specific work permit tied to a specific job, or an open work permit that is not tied to one employer.

Used for most employer-specific work permit applications, often referencing a Labour Market Impact Assessment or an LMIA exemption.
Used for most open work permit applications, which do not require a specific job offer.
Some applicants inside Canada may follow a different process; confirm current IRCC instructions.

Required information

Applicants generally need passport details, job offer information where applicable, and, for employer-specific permits, a Labour Market Impact Assessment number or exemption code, before completing the form. Always download the current version of this form directly from the official IRCC form page before completing it, since IRCC rejects older versions and applications submitted on outdated forms can be returned unprocessed.

Preparation tips

Confirm whether your situation requires an employer-specific or open work permit before applying.
Gather your Labour Market Impact Assessment number or applicable exemption details in advance, if relevant.
Download the current form directly from the official IRCC work permit page for each new application.
Cross-check job title, employer name and dates against your job offer letter or LMIA.

Common mistakes

Submitting an employer-specific application without a required Labour Market Impact Assessment or exemption reference.
Confusing an open work permit application with an employer-specific one and providing the wrong supporting details.
Using an outdated copy of the form instead of the current version from canada.ca.
Inconsistent employer or job details between the form and the supporting job offer documentation.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a job offer to use IMM 1295?: Only for employer-specific work permits. Most open work permit applications do not require a specific job offer, though eligibility rules still apply.
What is the difference between IMM 1295 for open versus employer-specific permits?: The form is the same, but employer-specific applications generally require job offer and Labour Market Impact Assessment details that open work permit applications do not.
Where do I get the current IMM 1295 form?: Download it directly from the official IRCC work permit application page immediately before completing it, since older versions are rejected.
Can I apply for a work permit from inside Canada using this form?: Some applicants inside Canada follow a different process. Confirm your eligibility and the correct application method on the current IRCC work permit page.

Official sources

IRCC – Apply for a work permit

This guide is general information, not legal advice. Government requirements change. Confirm details against the official sources above, and read our editorial standards.