Canadian work authorization may require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or fall under an LMIA-exempt category such as international agreements, intra-company transfers, or significant benefit — each with distinct employer and worker obligations.
Employers must demonstrate recruitment efforts and labour market need where an LMIA is required. We work alongside HR teams on defensible filings that align with program-specific wage, advertising, and job description rules.
Many Vancouver tech and professional hires rely on exemptions tied to trade agreements, CUSMA, transfer categories, or other IRCC codes. Choosing the correct exemption and supporting it with evidence reduces refusal risk at ports of entry and online submissions.
Small errors on renewal timelines or job duties can jeopardize continuity of work authorization. We advise on when bridging, employer-specific amendments, or new permits are required.
General information for Vancouver applicants — not legal advice. Outcomes depend on facts and current IRCC or IRB policy.
LMIA processing varies by stream (for example high-wage, low-wage, Global Talent Stream) and government service standards. Delays can occur when files are incomplete or when additional verification is required.
A closed permit authorizes work for a specific employer under stated conditions. Changing employers generally requires a new permit or an approved change of conditions before you start unauthorized work.
A job offer is usually necessary but rarely sufficient on its own. Officers assess admissibility, labour market rules, employer compliance history, and whether the offer is genuine and consistent with the permit category requested.
In some circumstances, applicants who apply to extend work authorization before expiry may continue working under defined conditions while a decision is pending. Whether implied status applies depends on permit type, application method, and timing.
Share your timeline and goals on our consultation page — we will outline practical next steps for your immigration strategy in BC.
Immigration consultation — Vancouver