by Canada doesn’t issue a separate “work visa”. It issues a work permit, and if your country needs a visa to enter, it is issued with the permit at no extra fee. This guide to the Canada work visa explains who needs a permit, the requirements, the fees in 2026, how long it takes, and how to avoid fake offers.
Key points
- Most people need a job offer first. Many employers also need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- The government fee is C$155 for the permit, plus C$85 for biometrics in most cases.
- Your employer pays the LMIA fee, not you.
- Processing time depends on your country and the type of permit, so check IRCC’s official tool.
Is There a “Canada Work Visa”?
In most cases, you need a work permit to work in Canada. The permit is issued by IRCC, and if you also need a visa or eTA to enter, the officer issues it at the same time. You don’t pay extra or fill in a second form.
Types of Work Permits
| Type | Job offer needed? | Who it’s for |
|---|---|---|
| Employer-specific | Yes | Most workers. It ties you to one employer. |
| Open | No | Only people who qualify, such as some family members of workers |
You can’t choose which type you get. The type depends on your situation.
Canada Work Visa Requirements in 2026
To apply from outside Canada, IRCC says you must:
- Show you have enough money for yourself and your family during your stay and to return home.
- Include all the required documents in your application.
- Show you will leave Canada before your permit ends.
Your application can be refused if you are medically inadmissible, have a criminal record, or plan to work for an employer on IRCC’s list of employers that failed to comply. For an employer-specific permit, you also need a job offer. Many employers must first get an LMIA.
Canada Work Visa Fees in 2026
| Fee | Amount (CAD) | Who pays |
|---|---|---|
| Work permit processing | $155 | You |
| Open work permit fee | $100 more | You, for open permits only |
| Biometrics | $85, or up to $170 for a family | You, if required |
| LMIA fee | $1,000 per position | Your employer |
| Employer compliance fee | $230 | Your employer, for LMIA-exempt jobs |
So a typical employer-specific permit costs you C$240 in government fees. You may also pay for a medical exam and police certificates, and prices vary by country. Employers can’t recover LMIA or recruitment costs from you.
Canada Work Visa Processing Time
There are two waits. First, your employer may need an LMIA. As of 7 October 2026, ESDC averages were 9 business days for the Global Talent Stream, 82 for the low-wage stream, and 98 for the high-wage stream. Advertising time is extra.
Second, IRCC reviews your permit. There is no single figure, because it depends on your country, so use IRCC’s processing times tool on Canada.ca. Some applicants qualify for the Global Skills Strategy’s two-week processing, and IRCC gives priority to some essential occupations, such as farm and health care jobs.
One 2026 rule matters. ESDC won’t process low-wage LMIAs in cities where unemployment is 6% or higher. The list changes every quarter, and some jobs, such as primary agriculture, are exempt.
Documents You Will Usually Need
Your IRCC checklist will list exactly what to upload. Most applicants prepare:
- A valid passport.
- Your job offer, plus the LMIA or offer-of-employment details, if they apply.
- Proof of funds, and proof of your education or work experience.
- A police certificate or medical exam results, if IRCC asks for them.
How to Apply for a Canada Work Permit From Outside Canada
- Get a job offer, and check if your employer needs an LMIA.
- Sign in to your IRCC secure account and answer the questions.
- Upload the documents on your checklist.
- Pay the fees by credit or debit card.
- Wait for your biometrics letter, then book your appointment quickly.
- Wait for a decision, and travel only after you are approved.
How to Spot Fake Job Offers for Canada
Fake offers often promise a guaranteed permit for a fee. Stay safe with these rules:
- Never pay anyone for a job offer or an LMIA.
- Check your employer on IRCC’s list of employers that failed to comply.
- Apply only through your own IRCC account.
- Ask for a written job offer and contract.
Our guide to fake US work visa bond requests shows how similar tricks work.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is there a visa just for working in Canada? Canada issues a work permit. If you need a visa or eTA, it is issued with the permit at no extra fee.
2. How much does a Canada work permit cost? The fee is C$155, plus C$85 for biometrics in most cases. Open permits cost C$100 more.
3. Who pays the LMIA fee? Your employer pays C$1,000 per position. You shouldn’t pay it.
4. How long does it take? It depends on your country and the type of permit. Use IRCC’s processing times tool, and add any LMIA time.
5. Do I need a job offer? For an employer-specific permit, yes. Open permits don’t need one, but only some people qualify.
6. Do I need an LMIA? Often, yes. Some jobs are exempt, and your employer can tell you which route applies.
7. Can I apply from inside Canada? Usually you apply before you arrive. Some people, such as those extending a permit, can apply from inside Canada.
8. Do I need biometrics, a medical exam, or a police certificate? Biometrics are needed in most cases. A medical exam or police certificate may be required, depending on your situation.
9. Can my family come with me? Your spouse, partner, and children may be able to visit, study, or work in Canada. Check each person’s rules.
10. Where can I check the latest rules? Use the IRCC and ESDC pages on Canada.ca.
Final Thoughts
The process is clear once you know the steps: get a real job offer, check the LMIA, pay the right fees, and apply through your own IRCC account. Rules and wait times change often, so check the official pages before you pay or travel. This article is general information, not legal advice. See our Disclaimer. For your own case, check the official government sites.
