Work Permit (LMIA / IMP / PGWP etc.) Lawyer in Toronto

The appropriate permit option will be determined by your unique circumstances.

• Employer specific permits (such as LMIA-based) require you to have an offer of employment from a Canadian employer.
• Open permits (like PGWP) offer more flexibility for graduates or those involved in certain programs.

We'll consider your eligibility, employment status and long-term goals when advising which route to take.

Eligibility is based on a valid job offer (for employer specific permits), demonstration of appropriate qualifications and adherence to immigration regulations.

Some permit programs (for example, the International Mobility Program – IMP) allow employment without requiring the employer to secure an LMIA.

Schedule a consultation to discuss your credentials and explore the available options.

Essential documentary requirements include:

• A letter offering employment from your prospective employer
• Confirmation of approval of LMIA (if necessary)
• Evidence of attestation of qualifications (diplomas, certificates)
• Your passport and proof of immigration status

We provide a step-by-step checklist tailored to your specific permit type to ensure you collect the relevant documents.

Yes, you may apply to change to a different permit (for example, LMIA-based or IMP) before expiration of your PGWP. Applications must be submitted on time to avoid disruption to status. We'll help you determine eligibility and submit within the required time limits.

The Labour Market Impact Assessment process involves:

1. Your employer posting the job advertisement in Canada for a minimum of 30 days
2. Applying for an LMIA with proof of recruitment efforts
3. Waiting for approval from Employment and Social Development Canada

The employer is expected to demonstrate that no Canadians are available to do the job and must submit a detailed offer of employment.

The IMP covers LMIA-exempt permit categories created through certain agreements (such as CUSMA) or for jobs which benefit Canada (e.g. academic researchers).

Your eligibility depends on your specific job category, country of citizenship or employer-based exemption. We'll review your information to determine if you meet the requirements.

Applications can be made while permits are still in force, provided they are received before your current permit expires.

Early filing also prevents gaps in work authorization and eliminates the risk of rejection due to expired documentation.

Processing time estimates differ based on the following factors:

• LMIA application: Several weeks to several months depending on stream
• Work permit: Several weeks to a few months

Certain faster processing tracks, such as the Global Skills Strategy, can reduce processing to two weeks for eligible high-wage jobs.

We offer clear and transparent pricing so you pay only what you are quoted. Fees are fixed depending on the type of permit applications and services included (for example, assistance with LMIAs, hearings and appeals). A detailed breakdown is provided during your consultation meeting.

We send email updates when your file moves forward or ask you to call us to discuss. You also receive access to a secure portal for file documentation and status tracking.

The most common risks are:

• Omitting information from the forms or using out of date forms
• Failure to include the LMIA discussion or offer of employment
• Submitting the application too late (close to permit expiry date)

We will review your application and supporting documentation to prevent errors.

Dependent spouses and children may be eligible for open work permits, study permits or visitor permits as part of your application package. We will explain your options to keep your family together in Canada.

We help to ensure that your employer follows the rules for recruiting, preparing LMIA paperwork and finding relevant exemptions to the LMIA. This includes writing the job posting, drafting LMIA paperwork and representing the employer during a government interview.

Yes, our legal representation covers reviewing the refusal details, advising you of your options (re-submitting or for making an appeal) and supporting your case for a new application.

We coach the employer through the recruitment standards, wage guidelines and LMIA submission processes. These steps include reviewing the job postings and assisting with preparations for an audit.

The main deadline is that you must apply within 180 days of receipt of your final marks or your confirmation of program completion. Missed deadlines may make you ineligible, so filings are prioritized by our office.

We provide updates as they happen and consult as needed to discuss changes to your strategy. These might include an LMIA exemption or a change to application processing times that impacts your application strategy.

Yes, our long-term advice helps you plan all steps (from Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs) for securing permanent resident status after a temporary work permit is issued.

You must apply for an extension of the work permit (or move to visitor status) before expiry to avoid losing your legal status. We prepare your filing to ensure there is no gap on file.

Communication is by email and phone plus a secure online client portal. Updates are provided at each 'step' in your case (filing, granting) and within 48 hours of any post-submission file activity.