You need a work permit
To work in Canada under an international trade agreement, you need a work permit unless you’re a business visitor.
Type of work permit
You can apply for an employer-specific work permit with a labour market impact assessment exemption if you meet the
- requirements set out in the trade agreement with your country
- general eligibility requirements(opens in a new tab) for a work permit
When you fill out your work permit application, select “Exemption from Labour Market Impact Assessment” as the type of work permit in the “Details of intended work in Canada” section.
Before you apply
Your employer needs to
- submit an offer of employment to IRCC
- provide you with an offer of employment number
Your employer may have to pay a CAN$230 employer compliance fee.
Some workers and employers are fee exempt. If you aren’t sure if you’re fee exempt, pay your fees. You’ll get a refund if you don’t have to pay fees.
Faster processing
If your job is classified under Training, Education, Experience and Responsibilities (TEER) category 0 or 1 of the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system, you’re eligible for 2-week application processing.