Do You Need an LMIA or a Work Permit?

Foreign workers may fall into one of the following categories:

• Jobs requiring both an LMIA and a work permit

• Jobs that are LMIA-exempt but still require a work permit

• Jobs that allow individuals to work in Canada without a work permit

Each category has specific criteria. Explore below to find out which applies to your situation.

Jobs That Require a Positive LMIA and a Work Permit

In most cases, Canadian employers must first obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before they can hire a foreign worker. The LMIA confirms that hiring a foreign national will not negatively impact the Canadian labour market and that the job offer meets wage and working condition standards.

Employers must demonstrate genuine efforts to recruit Canadian citizens or permanent residents before turning to international talent. Additionally, they are subject to inspections to verify compliance with immigration and employment standards once the worker is in Canada.

LMIA-Exempt Jobs: Work Permit Still Required

Some categories of foreign workers are exempt from requiring a positive LMIA, yet they must still obtain a valid work permit to work legally in Canada.

Common LMIA-exempt categories include:

• International agreements (e.g., NAFTA/CUSMA, CETA, GATS, Canada-Colombia and Canada-Peru FTAs)

• Global Talent Stream

• Intra-company transferees

• Entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals

• Participants in international youth and exchange programs

• Spouses and dependents of certain foreign workers or students

• French-speaking skilled workers

• Religious workers

• Academics and researchers

• Provincial exemption streams

Note: Being LMIA-exempt does not mean exemption from needing a work permit. Each worker must still apply and be approved for a valid work permit before beginning employment.

More details can be found in our LMIA-Exempt Jobs section.

The Global Talent Stream: Fast-Track Hiring for Tech & Growth Sectors

Canadian companies in high-growth sectors, particularly in IT and STEM fields, can benefit from the Global Talent Stream (GTS)—a fast-tracked immigration pathway designed to help employers bring skilled foreign talent to Canada within as little as two weeks.

This program helps innovative businesses fill labour shortages swiftly and supports Canada’s tech ecosystem.

Discover more in our Global Talent Stream section.

Working in Canada Without a Work Permit

Certain occupations and scenarios allow foreign nationals to work in Canada without needing a work permit. These are limited to specific roles and are strictly regulated.

Eligible roles include:

• Professional athletes and team staff

• Business visitors

• Convention organizers

• Crew members (e.g., air or marine)

• Foreign government officials

• Clergy and religious leaders

• Emergency service providers

• Aviation accident inspectors

• Health care students (with conditions)

• Military personnel

• On-campus student employment and certain off-campus work

• Performing artists

• Public speakers

• Media crews and journalists

• Judges, referees, and similar officials

• Investigators and expert witnesses

• Individuals with implied status while awaiting a decision