Closed Work Permit in Canada: Work Legally with a Job Offer
A Closed Work Permit is a type of work authorization that allows foreign workers to work in Canada for a specific employer and location. If you have received a job offer from a Canadian employer, this permit can be your gateway to gaining valuable Canadian work experience and potentially applying for permanent residency.
What is a Closed Work Permit?
Unlike an Open Work Permit, a Closed Work Permit is tied to a single employer. This means you can only work for the employer and under the conditions specified in your work permit. Many foreign workers enter Canada through this route when an employer supports their application and, in most cases, obtains a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
Eligibility Requirements for a Closed Work Permit
To be eligible for a Closed Work Permit, you must:
- Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Ensure your employer has obtained a positive LMIA (if required) to demonstrate that no Canadian worker is available to fill the position.
- Meet the qualifications and experience required for the job.
- Demonstrate that you intend to leave Canada once your work permit expires unless applying for permanent residence.
- Provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members.
- Meet health and security requirements, including medical exams and background checks, if required.
Exemptions from the LMIA Requirement
In some cases, you may not need an LMIA to apply for a Closed Work Permit. Some common LMIA-exempt categories include:
- Intra-company transferees (employees transferred within the same company to a Canadian branch).
- Workers under international agreements (e.g., CUSMA for citizens of the U.S. and Mexico).
- Post-graduate work permit holders transitioning to a closed permit with a specific employer.
- Special work permit categories such as francophone mobility or reciprocal agreements.
How Long is a Closed Work Permit Valid For?
The duration of a Closed Work Permit depends on your job offer and the LMIA approval (if required). Typically, it is issued for the length of your employment contract, which can range from a few months to several years. Some work permits can be extended if the employer continues to meet eligibility requirements.
Who is NOT Eligible for a Closed Work Permit?
You may not qualify for a Closed Work Permit if:
- You do not have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Your employer does not meet the requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- You fail to provide the necessary supporting documents for your application.
- You do not meet Canada’s admissibility requirements, such as criminal or medical inadmissibility.
Start Your Work Permit Application with CIP Immigration!
Applying for a Closed Work Permit can be complex, and a mistake in your application could result in delays or refusals. At CIP Immigration, we specialize in helping foreign workers secure their work permits smoothly and efficiently.
Let us guide you through every step of the process! Contact us today to get started on your Closed Work Permit application and take the next step toward your career in Canada.
