Work Permits and Visas to Canada
Canada remains a top destination for foreign professionals, offering diverse career paths and long-term settlement opportunities. To legally work in Canada, most foreign nationals must obtain a valid work permit, which may either be employer-specific or open.
Employer-specific permits are tied to a particular job and employer, while open work permits allow more flexibility, permitting employment with any approved Canadian employer. The eligibility rules, required documents, and timelines can vary depending on your background and work status.
At Kurzfeld Immigration Law, our Mississauga work permit lawyers offer strategic legal assistance to help workers, graduates, and employers navigate this process and secure the right type of Canadian work authorization.
Types of Work Permits for Canada:
Professional Legal Help in Mississauga
As a leading immigration law firm serving clients across the GTA, our team in Mississauga is here to help you understand which work permit suits your needs—and to guide you through each step of the application process.
Employer-Specific Work Permits
This permit allows a foreign worker to be employed in Canada by one specific employer, under a defined job role and at a fixed location. It is the most common type of work permit issued and is typically supported by a Canadian employer.
Key Requirements:
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- Valid Job Offer: You must have a written job offer from a Canadian employer, usually for full-time employment.
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): In most cases, the employer must obtain a positive LMIA, proving that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the position.
- Qualifications: The applicant must meet the experience, education, and skill set requirements outlined in the job description.
Special Programs:
- Global Talent Stream: Certain tech and high-skill roles may qualify for expedited LMIA processing and a two-week permit turnaround under Canada’s Global Talent Stream.
Open Work Permits
Open work permits are not tied to a specific employer or job. This type of permit offers greater freedom, allowing foreign nationals to work for almost any employer in Canada, making it a popular choice for spouses, students, and certain PR applicants.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Spouse or Common-Law Partner: Partners of skilled workers or international students may be eligible.
- International Graduates (PGWP): Students graduating from a DLI (Designated Learning Institution) in Canada can apply under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program.
- Permanent Residency Applicants: Dependents of PR applicants may also qualify for an open work permit.
- At-Risk Workers: Those facing abuse in the workplace may be eligible for an open work permit to protect their rights and safety.
Benefits:
- Work Flexibility: Change employers or positions without reapplying.
- No Job Offer Required: Unlike employer-specific permits, you do not need a job offer in advance.
Get Expert Legal Assistance from a Mississauga Work Permit Lawyer
Whether you are applying for the first time, switching jobs, or renewing your work permit, the process can be complicated. Our experienced immigration lawyers in Mississauga will help you:
- Choose the right permit based on your situation
- Gather all supporting documents
- Submit a strong application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- Communicate with employers or provide LMIA support
We are committed to providing personalized and responsive service to workers and employers throughout the Mississauga and Peel Region area.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I get a work permit in Canada without a job offer?
Yes, certain applicants—such as spouses of international students or skilled workers, PGWP applicants, and vulnerable workers—may qualify for an open work permit without needing a job offer.
What is required for a Mississauga employer to hire a foreign worker?
Employers typically need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to show there are no Canadians available for the job. We assist both employers and workers with the LMIA process.
How long does it take to get a Canadian work permit?
Processing times vary, but some permits, especially under Global Talent Stream, can be issued in as little as 10–14 business days.
Can I bring my spouse or children with me if I get a work permit?
Yes, in many cases your family can accompany you. Spouses may be eligible for an open work permit, and dependent children may qualify for study permits.
What happens if my work permit is refused?
If your application is refused, our lawyers can help you understand why and work with you on reapplying, appealing, or exploring alternative immigration pathways.
Can international students in Mississauga work after graduation?
Yes. Graduates of Canadian institutions, including schools in Mississauga, may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work full-time anywhere in Canada.
Can I apply for a work permit from inside Canada?
In many cases, yes. Visitors, students, and some temporary residents may be eligible to apply for or extend their work permit from within Canada. Contact us to find out if this applies to your situation.
Do I need to renew my work permit before it expires?
Yes. You should apply to renew or change conditions on your permit at least 30 days before it expires. Our lawyers can ensure your renewal is submitted on time and correctly filed.
What happens if I stay in Canada after my work permit expires?
If your permit expires, you may be able to apply for restoration of status within 90 days. It’s important to act quickly—contact our legal team immediately for help.
Can I switch jobs in Mississauga if I’m on a work permit?
If you hold an employer-specific permit, you’ll need to apply for a new permit to work for a different employer. We can assist with changing your work conditions while maintaining your legal status.
Are there any industries in Mississauga actively hiring foreign workers?
Yes. Mississauga has a strong demand in manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, IT, and logistics, among others. Our legal team helps connect skilled workers with compliant job opportunities in these sectors.
Contact a Mississauga Work Permit Lawyer Today
Our dedicated team at Kurzfeld Immigration Law is ready to help you take the next step toward working and living in Canada. Don’t risk delays or rejections—let us handle your case with the attention it deserves.
