WORK PERMIT GUIDE

LMIA-exempt work permits

No LMIA does not mean no requirements. Start with the exemption that fits the work and the evidence that supports it.

Call our office

PLAIN-LANGUAGE OVERVIEW

Understand the starting point.

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is not required for certain work permit categories. These are commonly administered through the International Mobility Program. An exemption removes the LMIA requirement for that situation; it does not remove the need to qualify for the work permit or meet its conditions.

Who this guide may suit

Workers and employers reviewing a recognized exemption category.
Applicants whose work may fall under an international agreement or another specific exemption.
People comparing an employer-specific exempt permit with a qualifying open permit.

Eligibility factors to review

Immigration rules change frequently.

These are key factors, not a complete eligibility test. Check the current official instructions and your individual circumstances before applying.

Recognized exemption

There must be a valid exemption that fits the proposed work and your circumstances. Identify its requirements and the supporting evidence.

Open or employer-specific

LMIA-exempt permits can still be tied to an employer. Open permit eligibility is a separate question.

Employer compliance

For many employer-specific exempt applications, the employer must submit an offer through the Employer Portal and pay the compliance fee before the worker applies. Exceptions need to be checked.

Work and personal evidence

Review the role, your qualifications, admissibility, and the application instructions for your location.

A careful, step-by-step approach

Identify the exemption

Review the proposed activity and determine which exemption may be relevant.
Check employer obligations

Establish whether an Employer Portal offer, fee, or a documented exception is needed.
Build the evidence

Prepare the employment and personal records that explain how the category requirements are met.
Apply and review conditions

Submit under the correct category, respond to requests, and check the scope of any work authorization issued.

Your document starting point

The exact checklist depends on your route and circumstances. This list helps prepare the discussion; it does not replace IRCC’s personalized document requirements.

Passport and applicable immigration status documents.
Employment contract and detailed role information where relevant.
Employer offer number and compliance evidence when required.
Documents explaining the exemption basis and applicable code.
Education, experience, or relationship evidence relevant to the specific category.
Translations and other records requested in the IRCC checklist.

Refusal risks and preparation pitfalls

Eligibility and evidence both matter. The following points deserve attention; this is not an exhaustive list or a prediction of a decision.

Selecting an exemption because it appears convenient rather than applicable.
An employer offer that does not match the role described in the application.
Missing a required employer submission or assuming a fee exemption applies.
Treating an exempt employer-specific permit as unrestricted employment permission.

Common questions

Is an LMIA-exempt permit always open?

No. Many are employer-specific. The conditions on the permit determine the authorized work.

Does the employer still have responsibilities?

Often yes. Portal and compliance requirements can apply even though no LMIA is needed.

Can we simply use a different exemption code?

The code must correspond to a category that actually fits the facts and evidence. A code alone does not establish eligibility.

Related guides

Go to the official source

Use the links below for current government requirements and application instructions.

Last reviewed: September 2026.

This page provides general information only and is not legal advice. It does not assess your eligibility or guarantee an outcome. A review of your full circumstances and current rules is needed before taking action.

PERSONAL GUIDANCE. PRACTICAL NEXT STEPS.

Make your work plans
with a clearer next step.

Discuss your circumstances with Balpreet Singh, RCIC #R525492.

Contact our Surrey office