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Work Permit Application Checklist

Last updated · Reviewed by Immigration Content Lead · Review cadence 45 days

Quick answer

This on-page checklist organizes documents commonly gathered for a Canadian work permit application, distinguishing between employer-specific permits that may require an LMIA or LMIA-exempt offer and open work permits that do not tie the holder to one employer. It is a planning aid to use alongside the personalized checklist IRCC generates for each application type.

Key takeaways

  • Employer-specific work permits generally need a job offer supported by either an LMIA or an LMIA exemption.
  • Open work permits let the holder work for most employers without a single tied job offer.
  • Proof of identity, a clean immigration history and sometimes a medical examination are commonly required.
  • Which supporting documents apply depends heavily on the specific work permit category being used.
  • Biometrics are generally required unless a recent exemption applies to the applicant.
  • This checklist supports preparation; it does not replace the official checklist tied to the exact application stream.

What This Checklist Covers

This page covers the document categories relevant to both employer-specific and open work permit applications, since the two paths diverge significantly in what supporting evidence is needed. It is meant to help applicants identify which category applies to their situation before assembling documents.

What's Inside

  • Job offer letter, where applicable, outlining duties, wage and employment conditions.
  • Labour Market Impact Assessment or a documented LMIA exemption code and rationale, for employer-specific permits.
  • Proof of identity: a valid passport and any other requested travel documents.
  • Evidence supporting eligibility for the specific open work permit category being used, if applicable.
  • Proof of funds sufficient to support the applicant, and family members if accompanying.
  • Biometrics appointment confirmation, unless a current exemption applies.
  • A medical examination, if the occupation or country of residence triggers this requirement.
  • Any provincial nomination or program-specific letters relevant to the work permit category.

How to Use This Checklist

First identify whether the intended application is employer-specific or open, since this determines which items in this list actually apply. Then work through the identity, offer or eligibility, and financial categories in order. Always confirm the exact required documents through IRCC's application guide for the specific work permit stream, since requirements differ meaningfully between categories such as LMIA-based permits, international agreement categories, and open work permits tied to a spouse's or partner's status.

Update Schedule

This resource is owned by the Immigration Content Lead and reviewed every 45 days given how frequently work permit categories and LMIA exemption codes are updated. Updates are applied directly to this page at its existing address rather than through a new publication.

Frequently asked questions

Do all work permits require an LMIA?
No. Many employer-specific work permits require an LMIA, but a range of LMIA exemptions exist under international agreements and other categories, and open work permits do not require one at all.
What is the difference between an open and closed work permit?
An open work permit allows working for most employers in Canada, while a closed, employer-specific permit ties the holder to one employer and often one specific job and location.
Is a medical examination always required?
No, it depends on factors such as the occupation, expected length of stay and country of residence. IRCC's application guide for the specific permit type will indicate whether one is required.
Can this checklist tell me if I qualify for an LMIA exemption?
No, exemption eligibility depends on specific facts and categories. This checklist only flags that an exemption may apply; confirming eligibility requires reviewing the applicable category or consulting an RCIC.

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Official sources

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