Introduction

Canada operates a work permit system designed to support economic growth while protecting the domestic labour market. For international employees relocating to Canada for corporate assignments, understanding the work permit categories and application process is essential for compliance and successful integration.

Canadian immigration distinguishes between employer-specific work permits and open work permits, with most corporate relocations proceeding under employer-specific authorisations. This guide focuses on the primary pathways available to skilled professionals joining Canadian employers.

While your employer manages the work permit application and Labour Market Impact Assessment (where required), this resource provides practical context on what to expect throughout your relocation.

Employer-specific work permits

Employer-specific work permits authorise foreign nationals to work for a named employer in a specific position and location in Canada. These permits are the most common route for corporate relocations and typically require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an exemption from the LMIA requirement.

An LMIA is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) confirming that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the position and that no Canadian worker is available to do the job. The employer must apply for the LMIA before the employee can apply for the work permit.

Many corporate relocations qualify for LMIA exemptions under international trade agreements (such as CUSMA, CETA, or CPTPP) or under intra-company transfer provisions. LMIA exemptions streamline the application process and reduce processing times.

Intra-company transfers

The intra-company transfer (ICT) category is designed for employees of multinational companies transferring from a foreign office to a Canadian branch, subsidiary, or affiliate. This category is LMIA-exempt and offers expedited processing.

To qualify, you must have worked for the company abroad in a full-time position for at least one continuous year within the three years immediately preceding the transfer, and be transferring to Canada to work in a senior managerial, executive, or specialised knowledge role.

ICT work permits are issued for the duration of the assignment, typically up to three years for senior managers and executives or up to five years for specialised knowledge workers, with extensions available. 

Global Talent Stream

The Global Talent Stream (GTS) is an expedited processing route for employers hiring highly skilled foreign workers in designated occupations or under company-specific Labour Market Benefits Plans. The GTS offers two categories: Category A (for unique and specialised talent referred by designated partners) and Category B (for in-demand occupations on the Global Talent Occupations List).

Employers must apply for an LMIA through the GTS pathway, demonstrating their commitment to creating jobs and supporting skills development for Canadians. Once the LMIA is approved, the employee can apply for a work permit with expedited processing (typically two weeks for the work permit application stage).

The GTS is particularly relevant for technology companies and employers in innovation sectors recruiting software engineers, data scientists, and similar roles.

Application process and timeline

For LMIA-required positions, the employer first applies to ESDC for an LMIA. Processing times vary by stream but typically range from two to eight weeks. Once the positive LMIA is issued, the employee applies for the work permit.

For LMIA-exempt positions (such as ICT), the employee applies directly for the work permit, providing evidence of LMIA exemption eligibility (such as proof of intra-company transfer status or applicable trade agreement provisions).

Work permit applications can be submitted online or at a visa office abroad. Processing times vary by country and application type, typically ranging from a few weeks to several months. Once approved, the employee receives a Port of Entry Letter of Introduction and obtains the physical work permit upon arrival in Canada.

Dependent work and study permits

Spouses and common-law partners of work permit holders may be eligible for open work permits, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada without requiring a separate LMIA or employer-specific work permit. This benefit makes Canada particularly attractive for dual-career families.

Dependent children can attend primary and secondary school in Canada without requiring study permits. Post-secondary students require study permits, which can be applied for alongside the primary work permit application.

Compliance and work permit obligations

Employer-specific work permits are tied to the named employer, position, and location. Changing employers requires a new work permit application with a new LMIA (unless LMIA-exempt). Changing roles or locations may require an amended work permit.

Work permit holders must maintain status by ensuring their permit remains valid. Extensions should be applied for at least 30 days before the current permit expires to avoid gaps in authorisation.

All work permit holders and their families must maintain adequate health insurance coverage. Some provinces offer public healthcare coverage to work permit holders after a waiting period (typically three months), but private insurance is required during the interim.

MovePlus support

The MOVEPLUS™ platform is designed to track visa validity dates, expirations, compliance requirements, and renewal timelines, helping employers stay informed of key deadlines and obligations.

Through the MOVEPLUS™ platform, visa documentation is centralised, and key milestones such as petition, consular processing timelines and submission deadlines can be tracked when this information is provided by the immigration partner.  This coordination helps reduce administrative burden and supports better oversight of important tasks and timelines.

Conclusion

Canada’s work permit system offers multiple pathways for skilled professionals, with intra-company transfers and the Global Talent Stream providing efficient routes for corporate relocations. The availability of open work permits for spouses enhances Canada’s appeal for international families.

Your employer manages the LMIA (where required) and the work permit application process. MovePlus supports the logistical coordination, ensuring timelines are met and compliance obligations are tracked throughout your assignment.

Sources

• Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC): Work permit guidance and application procedures
• Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC): Labour Market Impact Assessment requirements
• Global Talent Stream: Expedited processing for highly skilled workers

Disclaimer

Information provided in this article is current as of April 2026 and is subject to change as immigration laws and regulations evolve. This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a qualified immigration adviser for case-specific guidance.