Types of Work Permit and Their Eligibility Criteria in Canada 2025

Canada offers multiple work permits to foreign nationals, each designed for specific job situations. Whether you're coming to work temporarily or permanently, understanding the types of work permits available and their eligibility criteria is crucial for a smooth immigration process in 2025.

1. Employer-Specific Work Permit

An Employer-Specific Work Permit (closed work permit) allows you to work for a specific employer in Canada. This type of permit requires a job offer from a Canadian employer who must also provide an approved Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to show that hiring a foreign worker won't harm the Canadian labor market.

Eligibility:

• A job offer from a Canadian employer.
• An approved LMIA (if required).
• Proof of qualifications for the job.

2. Open Work Permit

An Open Work Permit offers more flexibility, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada. It is often given to spouses of skilled workers, international students, or temporary residents.

Eligibility:

• Spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or student.
• Graduate from a Canadian educational institution (Post-Graduation Work Permit).
• No criminal record.

3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The PGWP is available to international students who graduate from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution (DLI). It allows graduates to work for up to three years and gain Canadian work experience, which is helpful for permanent residency applications.

Eligibility:

• Graduation from a DLI.
• Program duration of at least eight months.
• Application within 180 days of receiving your final transcript.

4. Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit

This work permit allows employees of multinational companies to transfer to a Canadian branch. It is available to employees in managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge roles.

Eligibility:

• Employment with the same company for at least one year.
• A managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position.

5. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

Through the TFWP, Canadian employers can hire foreign workers to fill labor shortages. Employers must prove there are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents available for the job.

Eligibility:

• A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
• An approved LMIA.
• Meeting the qualifications for the job.

6. International Mobility Program (IMP) Work Permit

The IMP allows foreign workers to apply for a work permit without an LMIA. This includes workers under specific agreements like NAFTA or business visitors.

Eligibility:

• You must be part of an international agreement (e.g., NAFTA or CETA).
• Must meet the requirements outlined in the agreement.

7. Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)

The BOWP allows foreign workers whose permanent residency applications are in process to keep working while they await the outcome.

Eligibility:

• Applied for permanent residency under an eligible program.
• Hold a valid work permit while waiting for permanent residency approval.

8. Religious Worker Work Permit

This permit is for foreign nationals working with religious organizations in Canada, such as religious leaders or missionaries.

Eligibility:

• Employment by a recognized religious organization.
• Work essential to religious activities in Canada.

9. Young Professionals Work Permit

Part of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, the Young Professionals Work Permit allows individuals under 35 to gain professional work experience in Canada.

Eligibility:

• Age between 18 and 35.
• A valid job offer in Canada that aligns with your career goals.

10. Spousal Open Work Permit

This permit allows spouses or common-law partners of foreign workers or international students to work for any employer in Canada.

Eligibility:

• Spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or student.
• Proof of relationship with the primary applicant.

Canada offers diverse work permits catering to various professional needs. Whether you’re looking to temporarily fill a position, gain post-graduation experience, or transfer within a company, understanding the eligibility criteria for each permit is essential. Keep up-to-date with any changes in immigration policies to ensure a smooth application process for working in Canada.

For expert guidance on your immigration journey, contact Oasis Visas today! We're here to help you every step of the way. Reach out to us via email at [email protected]. Let’s make your dreams of living and working abroad a reality!