Work Permits & LMIA
For employers who need to hire a foreign worker, and for workers who already have a stream — LMIA, LMIA-exempt, or open — not a promise of any job in Canada.
Most employer-specific work permits need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from ESDC or an LMIA exemption (CUSMA, intra-company transfer, francophone mobility, and others). Open work permits are a different product. Compliance sits with the employer as much as the worker. Canadian work experience can later support Express Entry or a PNP; the permit itself is not permanent residence.
LMIA timing
Often 2–4 months
Some streams are faster; some freeze or queue.
Permit type
Closed or open
Closed permits are tied to one employer.
Global Talent Stream
Faster when eligible
Occupation and employer rules are strict.
Path to PR
Possible, not included
CEC or a PNP may follow qualifying work.
Who this is for
- You are a Canadian employer who needs an LMIA or an LMIA-exempt hire
- You have a written job offer and need the matching work permit
- You may qualify for an open work permit (spouse, IEC, or similar)
- You need an extension or a change of employer
Who this is not for
- You do not have an employer or an open-permit category
- You want us to “find a job” as the immigration service
- You need a visitor record only — see Extensions & Restoration
What RSTM handles
- Stream selection (LMIA, GTS, ICT, CUSMA, open permit)
- Employer compliance and advertising review for LMIA
- LMIA package to ESDC where required
- Work permit forms and support letters
- Extension or change-of-employer filings
How this program works
- 1
Employer and stream
We confirm whether the role needs an LMIA, qualifies for an exemption, or belongs on an open permit.
- 2
LMIA if required
We prepare the employer’s advertising, transition plan, and ESDC forms so the offer matches the wage and location.
- 3
Permit filing
After an LMIA or exemption is in place, we file the work permit with the worker’s qualifications and admissibility documents.
- 4
Compliance
We tell the employer what they must keep on file. A permit can be undone by a messy inspection later.
Documents and requirements
- A genuine job offer for a closed permit, or a category that supports an open permit
- Positive LMIA or a valid exemption code when required
- Worker qualifications that match the NOC and the offer
- Employer compliance with TFW or IMP conditions
- Admissibility of the worker
Checklist
- Employment contract and job offer
- LMIA or offer of employment number
- Worker’s passport, education, and experience evidence
- Employer business documents for LMIA
- Biometrics and medical exam when required
Robert Makkar, RCIC · CICC licence R508785 · Toronto, Ontario
Advice specific to your circumstances is given in a paid consultation with a licensed RCIC — not by an automated score.
Verify licence with CICC“Robert and the RSTM team made our Express Entry journey so smooth. From the initial assessment to receiving our ITA, we always felt in good hands.”
“Exceptional service for my LMIA-based work permit. The team was responsive, thorough, and delivered on every promise.”
“RSTM helped me sponsor my husband. The process was complex but Robert guided us every step of the way.”
Frequently asked questions
This page is preliminary information only. It is not legal advice, not a confirmation of eligibility, and not a guarantee of an invitation, approval, or any particular outcome. Advice specific to your circumstances is provided in a paid consultation with a licensed RCIC.
Ready to explore your Canadian immigration options?
Start with a free preliminary assessment or book a paid consultation for personalized advice from a licensed RCIC.
Related programs
Express Entry
Canada's main system for skilled worker permanent residence — FSW, CEC, and FST streams.
Learn moreProvincial Nominee Programs
Provincial streams that nominate workers whose skills match local labour needs.
Learn moreBusiness Immigration
Start-up visa, self-employed, and investor pathways for business owners.
Learn more