Moving to Canada is exciting, but before you can start your new job, there’s one key step between you and your first paycheque: getting a work permit. That piece of paper opens the door to your next chapter in one of the friendliest countries on Earth.
At Remitly, we know this process well. Many of us have been through the same mix of joy and confusion that comes with starting over in a new country. From hunting down the right forms to learning that “winter coat” is not a one-size-fits-all situation, we’ve seen it all. That’s why we created this guide to help you apply for your work permit with fewer headaches along the way.
Before you start: what to expect
Paperwork isn’t the most thrilling part of moving to a new country. But once you know what’s coming, the process feels much more manageable.
Think of applying for a work permit as following a path with a few checkpoints as you go along. First, you’ll make sure you’re eligible, choose the type of permit that fits your situation, and gather your documents. Then, you’ll pay your fees and submit your application.
After that, there’s a bit of waiting while the government reviews everything. Sometimes they might ask for biometrics, that’s just fingerprints and a quick photo.
The waiting part can test your patience, but consider trying to use this time productively and start exploring what life in Canada will look like. You could research cities, find housing options, check out local communities, or practice saying “Saskatchewan.”
Step 1: Check if you’re eligible for a work permit
Before you fill out any forms, it’s worth making sure you actually qualify. The rules come from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
General eligibility requirements
Most applicants need to show that they’ll leave Canada once their permit expires, that they can support themselves financially, and that they’re in good health and have no criminal record.
Depending on your country of origin, you might also need a medical exam or a police certificate. If you’re not sure where you stand, the IRCC’s eligibility tool is a quick way to check.
Step 2: Which work permit is right for you
There isn’t just one kind of work permit in Canada, and figuring out which one fits your plans can make the whole process easier.
Employer-specific work permit
If you already have a job offer lined up, this type of permit is probably for you. It connects you to one employer, in one location, for a set amount of time. Most of these permits need what’s called a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), basically your employer’s way of showing that hiring you won’t take a job away from a Canadian worker.
Some roles don’t need that extra step, like academic positions or internal company transfers. It’s always worth checking the IRCC website just to be sure.
Open work permit
If you don’t have a job waiting for you, or you just want some flexibility, an open work permit keeps your options open. You can work for almost any employer in Canada, as long as they follow labour laws, without needing an LMIA or a specific job offer first.
These permits are often given to spouses or partners of skilled workers and students, recent grads on a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), or refugee claimants. They’re perfect if you’d rather explore a few paths before settling into one particular role or city.
Step 3: Where are you applying from
Where you’re applying from can change a few things like what forms you’ll fill out, how long it takes, and whether you’ll need to give biometrics.
Applying from outside Canada
If you’re still abroad, you’ll apply online through your IRCC account or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country. You’ll upload your documents, pay your fees, and give biometrics.
Processing times can vary, sometimes by a lot. The safest move is to apply early. Give yourself plenty of time before your planned move so you’re not stressing over travel dates later.
Applying from inside Canada
If you’re already in Canada as a student, visitor, or temporary worker, you can usually apply for your work permit without leaving. The same goes if you’re the spouse or partner of an international student or worker, or if you’ve just wrapped up your studies and want to apply for a PGWP.
The best part is that you can typically stay in Canada while waiting for your new permit to be approved. You can even keep working under what’s called “maintained status” which is permission to keep going while the paperwork catches up.
Step 4: Gather your documents
This is the part where you channel your inner organizer. Having everything ready from the start will save you from last-minute panicking.
You’ll need your completed forms, like IMM 1295 along with a valid passport and a couple of recent passport-style photos. If you’re applying for an employer-specific permit, don’t forget your job offer letter and that all-important positive LMIA, if it applies to your role. Depending on your situation, you might also need to show proof of funds or provide medical exam results.
Before hitting submit, take a moment to review the IRCC’s document checklist. Requirements change from time to time, and even one missing document can slow things down.
And here’s a small but useful tip, save digital copies of everything with clear names. “Passport_Canada2026.pdf” looks organized. Whereas, “finalversionREALLAST.pdf”, not so much.
Step 5: Submit your application
You’ve got your documents and forms ready, so now it’s time to make things official.
Completing your forms
Remember to give everything one last look. Check your spelling, passport number, and dates—even a tiny typo can cause a big delay. Make sure all your forms are signed, dated, and look consistent.
Paying your fees
Most work permits cost CAD 155, plus CAD 100 if you’re applying for an open permit. Biometrics fees are CAD 85 per person or CAD 170 per family of 2 or more people. You can double-check the latest amounts on the IRCC fee list before paying.
Online vs. in-person submission
Submitting online is usually the way to go: it’s faster, easier to track, and saves you a trip. But if you prefer to do things in person, you can apply through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country.
Once you’ve submitted, you’ll get a confirmation email from IRCC, and yes, that’s the one you’ll probably check more often than your social media notifications for the next few weeks.
Step 6: The most common mistakes
Nobody gets everything right the first time. But when it comes to immigration paperwork, even small slip-ups can lead to long waits or extra stress. Some of the most common ones include forgetting to pay the biometrics or open work permit fees, using outdated forms, leaving sections blank, or uploading blurry document scans.
Another easy-to-miss detail is ignoring follow-up emails from IRCC. They sometimes ask for additional information or documents, and missing that message can pause your whole application. Finally, check you’ve saved a full copy of your application, just in case you need it later.
Step 7: What happens after you apply
Now comes the waiting game. This part can feel slow, but there’s still plenty happening behind the scenes.
Biometrics and processing time
Most applicants will get a Biometrics Instruction Letter, which is IRCC’s way of saying it’s time to book an appointment. You’ll need to provide fingerprints and a photo, usually within 30 days. It’s a quick process, and once you’ve done it, your application officially moves to the review stage.
Processing times will be different depending on where you’re applying from, the type of work permit, and even the season; things can move more slowly during busy months. The IRCC’s processing time tool gives you a good estimate, though it’s always smart to expect a little flexibility.
Receiving a decision
Once IRCC finishes reviewing your file, you’ll get an email with the result. If you’re approved, congratulations, you’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. That’s the document you’ll show when you arrive in Canada to get your actual work permit.
If your application isn’t approved, don’t panic. The refusal letter explains exactly why, and most issues, like missing documents or unclear scans, can be fixed. Take some time to review it carefully, make the changes, and try again. Plenty of successful applicants get it right on the second round.
Step 8: Get ready for life in Canada
Once your work permit is approved, you’re officially ready to start your Canadian adventure.
Essential first steps
First things first, apply for your Social Insurance Number (SIN). This lets you get paid, pay taxes, and access government services. You can do it online or visit a Service Canada office in person. It’s usually quick and free.
Next up, open a Canadian bank account. Most major banks offer newcomer packages with lower fees or bonuses to help you get started. Having a local account makes everything easier, from receiving your paycheque to paying rent.
Settling in and adapting
Don’t forget about healthcare. Every province runs its own system, so apply for your health card as soon as you can. Some provinces have a short waiting period before coverage kicks in, so it’s worth checking the details early.
Once the essentials are sorted, give yourself permission to explore. Try poutine, Canada’s national comfort food. Catch a hockey game, even if you don’t quite understand the rules yet. And get used to saying “thank you” to your bus driver. Canada is known for its friendliness, and before long, you’ll feel right at home.
Step 9: Extending or changing your work permit
If you’ve found a job you love, or you’re just not ready to say goodbye to Canada, you can usually extend your work permit before it expires. The process is pretty simple and can be done online through your IRCC account.
The key is timing. If you apply before your current permit runs out, you’ll get maintained status, so you can keep working legally in Canada while your extension is being processed.
If you decide to change jobs or switch employers, you’ll likely need a new work permit. But don’t worry, you don’t have to leave the country to apply. Just make sure your new application includes the updated details about your employer and job type, and you’ll be set to continue your Canadian chapter without missing a beat.
You’re closer than you think
Applying for a Canadian work permit might feel like a big challenge, but it’s really a series of manageable steps. With preparation, patience, and a little persistence, you’ll soon be starting your new life, coffee in one hand and work permit in the other.
Whether you’re sending money home with Remitly, opening your first Canadian bank account, or figuring out how to survive your first snowstorm, we’re here to make the process smoother.
FAQs
How much does a Canadian work permit cost?
Most permits cost CAD 155, plus CAD 100 for open permits. Biometrics add CAD 85 per person or CAD 170 per family.
Can I apply for a work permit from inside Canada?
Yes. Most visitors, students, and temporary residents can apply without leaving.
How long does it take to get a work permit?
Processing times vary by country and permit type. You can check current estimates on the IRCC website.
Can my family join me in Canada?
In most cases, yes. Spouses or partners can often apply for open work permits, and children can apply for study permits.
Can I extend my permit later?
Absolutely. Just apply before it expires. You can usually keep working while you wait for your new one.