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Canada Work Permit Application Checklist
The documents and steps for a Canadian work permit, from outside Canada.
A real, editable checklist below — tick, tap a line to rewrite, drag to reorder.
Tick the circles, tap any line to change it, drag the dots to reorder.
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This list runs in the order eligibility, job-offer paperwork, documents, the online application, then biometrics. Canada.ca advises applying for your work permit before you travel to Canada. The list assumes you are applying from outside Canada for a temporary work permit. It leaves out study, spousal and permanent residence routes. Requirements differ by case and change over time, so check the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or your personalized IRCC checklist before you submit.
Why these items are on the list
- Confirm you are eligible. Applying from outside Canada, show enough funds, admissibility and that you will leave when the permit expires.
- Choose open or employer-specific. Open permits allow work for almost any employer; employer-specific permits name the employer on your permit.
- Find out if you need an LMIA. A positive LMIA shows a genuine need for a foreign worker; some jobs are exempt.
- Get your job offer letter. Employer-specific permits usually need a valid Canadian job offer from your employer.
- Collect the LMIA copy and number. If an LMIA applies, you need a copy of it, its file number and the offer.
- Get an offer of employment number. For LMIA-exempt jobs, your employer provides this number along with an employment contract.
- Check your passport. Most applicants include a valid passport; Phan Immigration lists three years' remaining validity, so check your IRCC checklist.
- Take photos to IRCC specifications. Passport-sized photographs must meet the requirements IRCC states.
- Complete form IMM 1295. This is the work permit form for applying from outside Canada.
- Show proof of funds. Cover living expenses, accommodation, transport and return travel; the amount depends on family size and location.
- Gather education and work records. Credentials, employment records, reference letters and pay stubs show you meet the job requirements.
- Check provincial licensing. If your occupation is regulated in Canada, you may also need a provincial license.
- Arrange police clearance certificates. These are listed for temporary workers and may be requested by IRCC.
- Book a medical exam if needed. Get it before you travel if you need one; some applicants must have it.
- Translate documents not in English or French. CanadianVisa.org says to use a certified translator and include the translation, a copy of the original and the translator's certification.
- Add marriage or birth certificates. Depending on your case, IRCC may ask for these, including for accompanying family members.
- Create your IRCC account. Most applicants apply online and receive a personalized document checklist after the questionnaire.
- Review the application for errors. Mistakes can delay processing; check forms against your documents before submitting.
- Apply online before you travel. Canada.ca advises applying for your work permit before you travel to Canada.
- Provide biometrics when notified. You will be asked for fingerprints and a photo after submitting.
Tick off one document at a time and keep the list on your phone. If someone is applying alongside you, you can share it and see what is still open.
When to use it
Use it when you have a job offer or are planning to apply, before booking any travel.