Country guide · Canada
Working in Canada: work permits and getting hired
Canada is one of the most active countries for skilled international hiring with clear pathways to permanent residency — but the process involves more employer paperwork than most candidates expect.
Last updated June 22, 2026
Quick facts
Main employer route
LMIA + Work Permit
Fast-track route
Express Entry (LMIA-exempt in some cases)
Employer requirement
Labour Market Impact Assessment (most cases)
Processing time
Varies widely by province and route
Bring family?
Yes — open work permit for spouse
Path to PR?
Yes — Express Entry and provincial programmes
How Canadian employer sponsorship works
Most employers hiring foreign workers need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) — a document showing no suitable Canadian citizen or permanent resident was available for the role. This takes time and costs the employer money, which is why many smaller companies don't sponsor.
Some roles are LMIA-exempt — particularly intra-company transfers, roles under trade agreements (like CUSMA for US and Mexican nationals), and certain professionals. Ask the employer specifically which pathway applies to your situation.
With a valid job offer and LMIA, you can apply for a work permit. Processing times vary significantly by country of application and current IRCC volumes.
Express Entry and permanent residency
Express Entry is Canada's main system for skilled worker permanent residency. You create a profile, get a Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, and may receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) during draw rounds.
Since 25 March 2025, a job offer no longer adds CRS points. A qualifying offer may still matter for eligibility in some programmes, while Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) remain a separate route that can materially affect an Express Entry profile.
The pathway from work permit to permanent residency is one of the clearest in the world — but it requires planning, patience, and often professional advice.
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