Canada continues to welcome foreign workers, but the rules around work permits are changing. Here’s what you should know:
👉 Open Work Permits
Since January 2025, eligibility has become more restrictive. Spouses of international students now qualify only if the student is in a master’s, doctoral, or certain approved programs. Spouses of foreign workers may qualify if the main applicant works in high-skilled or priority occupations and has at least 16 months left on their permit. Dependent children are no longer automatically eligible under these rules.
👉 LMIA-Based Work Permits
Many foreign workers enter Canada through the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) process. This type of work permit is tied to a specific employer who has shown that no Canadian worker is available for the role. LMIA work permits are valuable because they give foreign workers Canadian experience and, in many cases, support future Permanent Residency (PR) applications through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.
✅ Whether it’s an open work permit or an LMIA-based one, preparation is key. Having your documents ready and understanding the latest rules will make the process smoother and faster.
At Robert Immigration Consultancy, we work closely with applicants to make sure their applications are done right the first time. If you’re planning to apply for a work permit or want to explore your PR options after gaining Canadian experience, feel free to reach out.
