By the licensed immigration consultants at Sun Consulting (Pvt.) Ltd, operating as Sun Enterprises.
Quick Answer: To get a Canada work permit from Pakistan, you generally need a valid job offer from a Canadian employer (with an LMIA in most cases), a passport, proof of qualifications matching the job, and to pay the CAD $155 work permit fee plus $85 biometrics fee. Processing time and requirements vary depending on whether the job is LMIA-based, LMIA-exempt, or part of a program like the Global Talent Stream.
Canada continues to face labour shortages in several sectors, which keeps demand strong for foreign workers but the process for Pakistani applicants involves more scrutiny than for many other countries. Here’s exactly what’s required.
Types of Canada Work Permits
- Employer-Specific (Closed) Work Permit tied to one employer, one job, one location. Usually requires a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- Open Work Permit not tied to a specific employer. Available to spouses of skilled workers/students, some Working Holiday participants, and certain other categories.
- LMIA-Exempt Work Permits for intra-company transfers, CUSMA/USMCA professionals, and certain international agreements no LMIA required, but strict eligibility rules apply.
Core Requirements Checklist
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Valid Job Offer | From a Canadian employer, in writing, with an offer number (via the Employer Portal) |
| LMIA (if applicable) | A positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), obtained by the employer |
| Proof of Qualifications | Educational credentials + relevant work experience matching the job description |
| Language Proof | IELTS or equivalent, depending on the occupation and program |
| Proof of Funds | Enough to support yourself (and any accompanying family) during your stay |
| Police Clearance Certificate | Required for most applicants |
| Medical Exam | Required depending on occupation (especially healthcare, childcare) and length of stay |
| Passport | Valid for the duration of intended stay |
LMIA vs LMIA-Exempt Which Applies to You?
Most Pakistani applicants go through the LMIA route, where the Canadian employer must first prove no Canadian worker was available for the role. This adds time (LMIA processing itself can take several weeks) before the work permit application even begins. LMIA-exempt categories move faster but are limited to specific situations intra-company transfers within the same multinational, CUSMA professionals, or employer-specific exemptions tied to significant economic benefit.
How Much Does It Cost?
- Work permit application: CAD $155 per person
- Biometrics: CAD $85 per person
- Open work permit holder fee (if applicable): additional CAD $100
- LMIA processing fee (paid by employer, not the worker): CAD $1,000 per position
For the full breakdown of all visa-related fees, see: Canada Visit Visa Fees in Pakistan (Updated 2026).
Processing Time
Work permit processing time from Pakistan varies significantly depending on the LMIA route and current IRCC workload. For the latest processing-time trends and how to track your specific application, see our detailed guide: Canada Visa Processing Time in Pakistan.
Common Reasons Work Permit Applications Get Refused
- Job offer doesn’t clearly match the applicant’s qualifications or experience
- Missing or expired LMIA
- Insufficient proof of funds
- Inconsistent employment history documentation
- Weak ties to Pakistan (for closed work permits, officers still assess intent to return if the permit ends)
About Sun Consulting (Pvt.) Ltd
Sun Enterprises is the operating/trade name of Sun Consulting (Pvt.) Ltd, a licensed immigration consultancy based in Karachi, Pakistan, helping clients with Canada, USA, Australia, UK, and Europe immigration and visa applications.
FAQs
Do I need an LMIA for every Canada work permit?
No. LMIA-exempt categories exist for intra-company transfers, CUSMA professionals, and certain international agreements but most standard job offers to Pakistani applicants require a positive LMIA.
How long does a Canadian employer take to get an LMIA approved?
LMIA processing timelines vary by stream and are set by ESDC, not IRCCÂ applicants should ask their employer for the current expected timeline, since it directly affects the overall work permit timeline.
Can my spouse and children come with me on a Canada work permit?
Yes. Spouses may be eligible for an open work permit, and dependent children can typically apply for study permits or accompany you as visitors, depending on your specific work permit category.
Can I switch employers on an employer-specific work permit?
Not without applying for a new work permit tied to the new employer (and, in most cases, a new LMIA), unless you hold an open work permit.
Get Your Work Permit Eligibility Checked
Every occupation and LMIA category has different rules a mismatch between your job offer and your documented experience is one of the most common (and most avoidable) reasons for refusal.
