Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP)
Foreign workers with a Canadian job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
The Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) is a Canadian work & skilled visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$155 (employer pays the CA$1,000 LMIA fee)) and processing time (~2 months (outside) or ~120 days (inside Canada)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) is for
Foreign workers with a Canadian job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Skilled LMIA work can build CEC experience and adds CRS points toward Express Entry PR.
Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) - eligibility criteria
- A job offer backed by a positive/neutral LMIA
- Meet the requirements of the offered job
- Prove you will leave at the end of the permit
- Be admissible (medical, security)
- Sufficient funds to support yourself
Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) (Canada) is ~CA$155 (employer pays the CA$1,000 LMIA fee), with an indicative processing time of ~2 months (outside) or ~120 days (inside Canada). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online; from outside or inside Canada |
| Length of stay | Usually tied to the job offer / LMIA (often 1-3 years) |
| Work rights | Employer-specific (work only for the named employer) |
| Study rights | No (study permit needed for long courses) |
| Government fee | ~CA$155 (employer pays the CA$1,000 LMIA fee) |
| Processing time | ~2 months (outside) or ~120 days (inside Canada) |
| Route to PR | Skilled LMIA work can build CEC experience and adds CRS points toward Express Entry PR. |
Pathway & next steps
Skilled LMIA work can build CEC experience and adds CRS points toward Express Entry PR.
Many applicants also compare IMP Work Permit · LMIA-Exempt Work Permit (International Mobility Program), ICT · Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit, CEC · Canadian Experience Class. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) pitfalls we fix
Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) cost?
The Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) government fee is ~CA$155 (employer pays the CA$1,000 LMIA fee). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~2 months (outside) or ~120 days (inside Canada). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP) lead to permanent residence?
Skilled LMIA work can build CEC experience and adds CRS points toward Express Entry PR.
Can I work on the Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP)?
Work rights: Employer-specific (work only for the named employer).
Who can apply for the Employer-Specific Work Permit (LMIA / TFWP)?
Foreign workers with a Canadian job offer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority