Employer-Specific Work Permit – Sapra Immigration

What Is an Employer-Specific Work Permit?

An Employer-Specific Work Permit (formerly called a “closed” work permit) authorizes a foreign national to work only for the employer named in the permit, under the exact job title, location, and conditions approved by IRCC.

This permit is typically issued under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or International Mobility Program (IMP), depending on whether a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required.

Who Needs an Employer-Specific Work Permit?

You will need an employer-specific work permit if:

You have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer
Your employer has obtained a positive LMIA, or your job qualifies for an LMIA exemption
You are not eligible for an open work permit
You are coming to Canada for a specific role, location, and employer arrangement

It is not transferable between employers. If you want to change jobs, a new application is required.

Conditions on the Work Permit

Your work permit will state:

Name of the authorized employer
Location of employment (if applicable)
Duration of employment
Any additional conditions (e.g., medical exam required if working in health or childcare)

You must comply with all listed conditions to maintain valid status in Canada.

LMIA vs. LMIA-Exempt Jobs

✓ LMIA-Based Work Permits (TFWP):

Employer applies for an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)
Proves no Canadian citizen or PR is available for the job
Most common for hospitality, trades, caregiving, agriculture, and logistics

✓ LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (IMP):

Based on international agreements (e.g., CUSMA), reciprocal employment, or significant benefit to Canada
Includes intra-company transferees, post-grad work, bridging open work permits, and more

Required Documents

To apply for an employer-specific work permit, you typically need:

Job offer letter or employment contract
LMIA document (if applicable) or LMIA-exempt offer of employment number
Valid passport
Completed IMM5710 or equivalent application form
Digital photo
Proof of qualifications (e.g., certificates, resume)
Medical exam if working in regulated occupations
Police clearance (if required)

Proof of application fee payment ($155 CAD)

Application Process

You can apply:

Online through the IRCC portal (recommended)
From outside Canada, inside Canada, or at a port of entry (in limited cases)

Steps:

Employer submits LMIA or exempt offer through IRCC Employer Portal
Candidate receives job offer & supporting documents
Applicant submits work permit application
IRCC processes the file, including biometrics
Work permit is issued upon approval

Work Permit Validity & Extensions

Permit is issued for the duration of the job offer or LMIA approval
Can be extended if the employer continues to meet program conditions
A new LMIA or job offer may be required for extensions
You must apply before your current permit expires to maintain legal status

Why Choose Sapra Immigration?

At Sapra Immigration Services Inc., we help both employers and foreign workers navigate the employer-specific work permit process with clarity and compliance. Our RCIC-led team provides:

Work permit filing (LMIA and LMIA-exempt)
Compliance guidance for employers
Document review and SOP support for applicants
Support with renewals, changes, and PR pathways

We ensure each file is accurate, complete, and professionally handled — improving success rates and reducing delays.