Employer-Specific (Closed) Work Permit
How employer-specific work permits work: LMIA-based and LMIA-exempt routes, conditions on employer, location and occupation, and how to change employers.
An employer-specific work permit — sometimes called a closed permit — authorises you to work only for the employer, job and location named on the permit. Most require a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), though several categories are LMIA-exempt under international agreements or specific federal programs. Changing employers, occupation or location generally requires a new work permit application.
Key facts
| Tied to | A specific employer, position and often location |
|---|---|
| Common basis | Positive LMIA or an LMIA exemption code |
| Programs | Temporary Foreign Worker Program (LMIA) and International Mobility Program (LMIA-exempt) |
| Changing jobs | Usually requires a new work permit before starting the new role |
| Compliance | Employers must meet conditions tied to wages, duties and working conditions |
Who may qualify?
- Workers with a job offer supported by a positive LMIA
- Workers covered by an LMIA exemption, such as intra-company transferees or certain trade agreement categories
- Workers under federal or provincial agreements that permit employer-specific hiring without an LMIA
- Workers whose employer has registered the offer of employment as required
Eligibility requirements
- A genuine job offer from a Canadian employer
- A positive LMIA, or a valid LMIA exemption with supporting rationale
- Compliance with wage, occupation (NOC) and location conditions named on the permit
- Employer compliance with recruitment and worker protection obligations
- Admissibility requirements met by the worker
How it works: step by step
- 1
Confirm the hiring route
Determine with the employer whether an LMIA is required or an exemption applies.
- 2
Employer prepares the offer
The employer obtains a positive LMIA or registers the offer under an exemption category.
- 3
Apply for the permit
Submit the work permit application referencing the employer, occupation and location.
- 4
Work within the permit conditions
Stay within the named employer, duties and location to remain compliant.
- 5
Apply early if changing jobs
Submit a new work permit application before switching employer, occupation or location.
Expert insight
Employer-specific permits are only as strong as the job offer behind them. We look closely at whether the NOC code, wage and duties are documented consistently, since mismatches are a common source of refusals and compliance issues later.
Alternative pathways
Frequently asked questions
Immigration programs, fees and processing times change frequently. This page is general information, not immigration advice. Verify current requirements with official Government of Canada sources or speak with our RCIC.