Introduction

A closed work permit is a work permit that allows you to work for a specific employer in Canada, according to the conditions of your work permit. It is a common option for foreign skilled workers who want to work in Canada temporarily.

Benefits of a Closed Work Permit

A closed work permit is a popular and convenient way to work in Canada temporarily. Unlike an open work permit, which requires you to meet certain criteria and pay an additional fee, a closed work permit is based on a job offer from a Canadian employer. This means that you can:

• Secure a job in Canada before you apply for the work permit

• Work in a specific position that matches your skills and qualifications

• Earn a competitive salary and benefits in Canada

• Apply for permanent residence in Canada, if you meet the requirements

Eligibility Criteria

• You are a temporary foreign worker who has been offered a job by a Canadian employer who has obtained a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC)

• You are an intra-company transferee who works for a multinational company that has a branch, subsidiary or affiliate in Canada

• You are a professional who is covered by an international trade agreement, such as the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) or the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA)

Types of Closed Work Permits

There are two types of closed work permits available: LMIA-based and LMIA-exempt. An LMIA-based work permit requires your employer to obtain a positive LMIA from ESDC before offering you a job. An LMIA-exempt work permit does not require your employer to obtain an LMIA, but they may need to submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay an employer compliance fee. An LMIA-exempt work permit is usually issued for occupations that are exempt from the LMIA requirement due to international agreements, public policy or significant economic benefits. The type of closed work permit you get depends on your situation and eligibility. For example:

• If you are a temporary foreign worker who has been offered a job by a Canadian employer who has obtained a positive LMIA from ESDC, you will get an LMIA-based work permit.

• If you are an intra-company transferee who works for a multinational company that has a branch, subsidiary or affiliate in Canada, you will get an LMIA-exempt work permit under the International Mobility Program.

• If you are a professional who is covered by an international trade agreement, such as the USMCA or the CETA, you will get an LMIA-exempt work permit under the Global Skills Strategy.

Duration and Conditions

The duration of your closed work permit depends on your situation and eligibility. It can range from a few weeks to several years. For example:

• If you are a temporary foreign worker who has been offered a job by a Canadian employer who has obtained a positive LMIA from ESDC, your work permit can be valid for up to four years, depending on the length of your job offer and the occupation category.

• If you are an intra-company transferee who works for a multinational company that has a branch, subsidiary or affiliate in Canada, your work permit can be valid for up to one year for specialized knowledge workers, or up to three years for senior managers or executives.

• If you are a professional who is covered by an international trade agreement, such as the USMCA or the CETA, your work permit can be valid for up to three years, or longer if the agreement allows it.

Your closed work permit will state the conditions of your work in Canada, such as:

• The name of the specific employer you can work for

You should always carry your closed work permit with you when you travel in and out of Canada. You should also inform Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) if your personal information or situation changes, such as:

• Your name, address, phone number or email

• Your marital status or family composition

• Your passport or travel document

• Your employer or job