Canada remains a popular choice for foreign workers looking for better job opportunities and a new start.
However, you need the right work permit before you can legally work in Canada in most cases.
The cost and requirements depend on the type of work permit you need.
For many applicants, the basic work permit processing fee is CAN$155. If you need an open work permit, an extra CAN$100 fee usually applies. Biometrics can cost another CAN$85 for an individual applicant.
This guide explains the main costs, requirements and steps for foreign workers who want to work in Canada.
How Much Does a Canada Work Permit Cost?
The standard government fee for a Canadian work permit is currently:
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Work permit processing | CAN$155 |
| Open work permit holder fee | CAN$100 |
| Biometrics | CAN$85 |
| Family biometrics maximum | CAN$170 |
The CAN$100 open work permit fee only applies when you are applying for an open work permit.
Biometrics are required for many applicants, but not everyone has to provide them.
Example of the Total Cost
If you are applying for a regular employer-specific work permit and must give biometrics, your basic government fees could be:
CAN$155 + CAN$85 = CAN$240
For an eligible open work permit applicant who must also provide biometrics:
CAN$155 + CAN$100 + CAN$85 = CAN$340
These amounts do not include other costs such as medical exams, police certificates, translations, travel or professional help.
What Is a Canadian Work Permit?
A work permit is a document that allows a foreign national to work legally in Canada.
There are two main types:
- Employer-specific work permit
- Open work permit
An employer-specific permit normally limits you to the employer, job and conditions listed on your permit.
An open work permit gives eligible workers more freedom because it is not tied to one specific employer.
1. Employer-Specific Work Permit
This is one of the most common options for foreign workers coming to Canada for a specific job.
You normally need a genuine job offer from a Canadian employer.
In many cases, the employer also needs a Labour Market Impact Assessment, known as an LMIA.
An LMIA helps show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the position.
If an LMIA is required, the employer usually handles the LMIA process before you submit your work permit application.
Your employer may need to give you documents such as:
- Positive LMIA
- LMIA file number
- Employment contract
- Job offer letter
- Other documents required for your job
If the job is in Quebec and the situation requires it, you may also need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate.
2. Open Work Permit
An open work permit is different because it does not normally tie you to one employer.
You do not need a job offer to apply for an open work permit.
However, this does not mean that anyone can simply apply for one.
Open work permits are only available to people who meet certain eligibility rules.
Some people who may qualify include certain:
- International students after graduation
- Permanent residence applicants
- Spouses or common-law partners who meet the rules
- Workers facing abuse or risk of abuse at work
- Other applicants covered by specific immigration programs
Your exact situation matters because open work permit rules can change.
Canada Work Permit Requirements for Foreign Workers
The requirements depend on your work permit type.
However, applicants generally need to prove that they meet Canada’s immigration and work permit rules.
Common requirements can include:
1. Valid Passport
You need a valid passport or travel document.
Your work permit cannot normally be issued beyond the validity of your passport.
2. Genuine Job Offer
If you are applying for an employer-specific work permit, you generally need a valid job offer.
Your employer must also meet Canada’s requirements for hiring foreign workers.
3. LMIA When Required
Many employer-specific jobs require an LMIA.
However, some jobs and immigration programs are LMIA-exempt.
Your employer should confirm whether an LMIA is needed before you apply.
4. Proof That You Can Perform the Job
You may need to show that you have the skills, training or work experience needed for the position.
This could include:
- Employment letters
- Certificates
- Diplomas
- Professional licences
- Training records
- Other evidence of experience
Some regulated jobs require a Canadian licence before you can legally work in that profession.
5. Biometrics
Many foreign workers need to provide fingerprints and a photo as part of their application.
The current individual biometrics fee is CAN$85.
6. Medical Examination
Some applicants may need a medical examination.
Whether you need one can depend on factors such as your planned job, where you have lived and your immigration history.
A medical exam can create an extra cost because the examination is normally completed through an approved medical professional.
7. Police Certificate
Some applicants may be asked to provide police certificates or other documents showing their background.
The exact documents depend on your circumstances.
8. Proof of Funds
You may need to show that you can support yourself and any family members coming with you.
The amount needed can depend on your situation and the immigration program involved.
9. Admissibility
Canada checks whether applicants are admissible.
Issues involving criminality, security or certain medical concerns can affect an application.
Documents You May Need
Depending on your application, you may need:
- Valid passport
- Work permit application forms
- Job offer letter
- Employment contract
- LMIA documents, if required
- Proof of work experience
- Education certificates
- Professional licence, if required
- Biometrics
- Medical examination results, if required
- Police certificates, if requested
- Proof of funds
- Passport photographs
- Family documents, if applicable
Do not submit fake documents or false information.
Misrepresentation can create serious immigration problems.
How to Apply for a Canada Work Permit
Most foreign workers can apply online through the Canadian immigration system.
The basic process is:
Step 1: Find the Right Work Permit
First, determine whether you need an employer-specific or open work permit.
The requirements are different for each type.
Step 2: Get a Job Offer if Required
If you need an employer-specific permit, find a genuine Canadian employer willing to hire you.
Be careful with anyone asking for large amounts of money in exchange for a guaranteed Canadian job.
Step 3: Check the LMIA Requirement
Ask the employer whether the position requires an LMIA.
If an LMIA is needed, the employer normally handles that process.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Gather your passport, job documents, work history, education records and other required documents.
Make sure the information is accurate and consistent.
Step 5: Submit Your Application
Complete the application and upload the required documents.
You will also pay the required government fees.
Step 6: Give Biometrics
If IRCC asks you to provide biometrics, follow the instructions and complete them within the required time.
Step 7: Wait for a Decision
IRCC will review your application.
Processing times can change, so check the official processing-time tool before making travel plans.
How Much Money Do You Need to Move to Canada for Work?
The work permit fee is only one part of the total cost.
You may also need money for:
- Visa-related expenses
- Biometrics
- Medical examination
- Police certificates
- Document translation
- Credential assessment
- Flight tickets
- Temporary accommodation
- Food
- Local transportation
- Initial rent
- Emergency savings
Your actual budget will depend heavily on your job and destination in Canada.
Someone moving to Toronto, for example, may face very different housing costs from someone moving to a smaller Canadian city.
Does the Employer Pay for the Work Permit?
This depends on the situation.
Some costs belong to the employer, while others are paid by the worker.
For example, when an LMIA is required, the employer is responsible for the LMIA process and related employer obligations.
Do not assume that every employer will pay your personal immigration expenses.
Ask for a clear breakdown before accepting a job.
Beware of Canada Work Permit Scams
Foreign workers are often targeted by fake job agents.
Be very careful if someone promises:
- Guaranteed Canadian work permits
- Guaranteed jobs
- Guaranteed permanent residence
- A visa without an interview or proper application
- A job without meeting the employer’s requirements
- A work permit in exchange for a large cash payment
A genuine job offer does not automatically guarantee a work permit.
Your application still needs to meet Canada’s immigration rules.
Can a Canada Work Permit Lead to Permanent Residence?
A work permit itself does not automatically give you permanent residence.
However, Canadian work experience can support some immigration pathways.
Depending on your situation, you may later qualify through programs such as Express Entry or a Provincial Nominee Program.
Your occupation, education, language ability, work experience and other factors can affect your options.
This is why choosing the right job and immigration pathway can be important from the beginning.
Canada Work Permit for Nigerians
Nigerians can apply for Canadian work permits if they meet the requirements for the relevant program.
The process is generally based on Canadian immigration rules rather than nationality alone.
A Nigerian applicant should focus on finding a genuine employer, checking the LMIA requirement and preparing complete documents.
Do not pay an agent simply because they claim to have special access to Canadian employers.
Always verify the job and immigration information through official Canadian sources.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much is a Canada work permit?
The standard work permit processing fee is currently CAN$155.
An eligible open work permit normally requires an additional CAN$100 fee.
Biometrics cost CAN$85 for an individual applicant when required.
Can I apply for a Canada work permit without a job offer?
Sometimes.
Open work permits do not require a job offer, but only certain people qualify.
Most employer-specific work permits require a job offer.
Do I need an LMIA to work in Canada?
Not always.
Many employer-specific jobs require an LMIA, but some work permits are LMIA-exempt.
The employer should determine whether an LMIA is needed for the position.
How long does a Canada work permit last?
The length depends on the type of permit and your circumstances.
Your permit will show its expiry date and the conditions attached to it.
Can my family come with me?
In some situations, eligible family members may be able to accompany you or apply for their own permits.
However, family members do not automatically qualify simply because you have a work permit.
The rules depend on your job, permit and family situation.
Can I get permanent residence after working in Canada?
Possibly.
Canadian work experience may help some workers qualify for permanent residence programs, but there is no automatic conversion from a work permit to permanent residence.
You must meet the requirements of the immigration program you apply under.
Conclusion:
A Canadian work permit can give foreign workers a legal way to work and gain experience in Canada.
The basic government fee is currently CAN$155, while an open work permit can add CAN$100 and biometrics can add CAN$85.
But the real cost can be higher once you include medical exams, documents, travel and your first living expenses.
Before paying an agent or accepting a job, check the employer, job offer and immigration requirements carefully.
Canadian immigration rules can change, so always confirm the latest requirements with IRCC before submitting an application.
Official reference: Canada work permit information on IRCC