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 permitsDecision and arrivalStep 6 of 7

BlockedAt the port of entry · RequiredYou are here

6. Collect the permit at the border

A border services officer checks your documents and issues the actual work permit when you arrive.

Waiting on: Decision

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 6 of 7 · RequiredClose

Collect the permit at the border

BlockedRequired

The authority on this stepWork permit: applying at a port of entrycanada.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

A border services officer checks your documents and issues the actual work permit when you arrive. Read it before you leave the counter: the employer, job, location and expiry printed on it are the conditions you are bound by.

Why it's required: Errors on a permit are far easier to fix at the counter than afterwards, and the officer can still refuse entry despite an approved application.

Issued atThe borderThe permit itself is printed when you arrive, not before.

Check itBefore you leaveEmployer, job, location and expiry date all have to be right.

Documents you'll need

Your port of entry letter of introduction
Your passport, and visa or eTA if you needed one
The job offer, LMIA number and proof of your qualifications

Before this step

BlockedDecision

Finishing this unlocks: Know your rights and your permit's conditions