Nothing checked off yet

First visit? Here's how the map works.

Steps run in order. A dashed step is blocked: something before it has to be finished first.

Check a step off when it's done. Whatever it was blocking unlocks by itself.

Some steps are IRCC's to make, not yours. Those show as waiting and can't be checked off.

Start with step 1: Check whether you need a permit at all

Work permitsApplyStep 3 of 7

Blocked$155 per person · RequiredYou are here

3. Apply for the work permit

You apply online, usually from outside Canada.

Waiting on: Employer-specific or open

Open this step

The rest of the pathway, folded up

This view fits the whole pathway on one screen: the step you're on is enlarged, its neighbours are shown small, and everything further out is folded into a summary bar you can open. The idea is borrowed from degree-of-interest trees (Card and Nation, 2002).

Times and fees on this page are rough and change without notice. Check canada.ca before you pay for anything or make a plan around a date.

Step 3 of 7 · RequiredClose

Apply for the work permit

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepWork permit application from outside Canadacanada.ca · Government of Canada

IRCC is the only authority here. Our summary is here to help you find your way. If anything below differs from the official page, the official page is right. Requirements, fees and processing times change without notice.

Our plain-language summaryLast reviewed 29 July 2026

You apply online, usually from outside Canada. The form asks for your job offer and the employer's LMIA or offer-of-employment number, if the stream needs one. The fee is $155, and an open permit adds a further $100. Where you apply from changes which routes are open to you.

Why it's required: A permit is not a visa. If you need an eTA or a visitor visa to travel, the approved permit does not replace it. You need both.

Fee$155 per personExtensions cost the same. An open permit adds $100.

FamilyApply togetherA spouse may qualify for an open permit in some streams.

Processing timeCheck the toolIt varies by country and stream; IRCC publishes a live figure.

Documents you'll need

Your passport, valid for the length of the job
The job offer and any LMIA or offer-of-employment number
Proof you'll leave when the permit ends
Proof you meet the job's requirements: qualifications, licences

Before this step

BlockedEmployer-specific or open

Finishing this unlocks: Give biometrics, Medical exam, if your job or country needs one