Having a job offer is a useful start, but it does not answer every work-permit question. Your circumstances determine the route available to you.

Open or employer-specific?

An employer-specific work permit is tied to an employer and the conditions on the permit. An open work permit lets you work for most compliant employers, but it is available only in specific situations. “Open” does not mean anyone can apply for one.

Check what each side must provide

For an employer-specific permit, you generally need a job offer. The employer may also need a labour market impact assessment (LMIA). An open permit does not require a job offer, but you must meet the requirements of an eligible category. IRCC’s work-permit tool helps you find the instructions for your situation.

Before preparing your file

Write down where you are applying from, your current status, the employer and the proposed job. Separate your documents from anything the employer needs to provide. If you already hold a permit, read its conditions carefully before making plans for new work.

Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) — Find out what type of work permit you need.

Contact me to discuss your immigration questions.