🇨🇦 How to Apply for a Canada Work Visa by Yourself in 2025

Planning to work in Canada in 2025? You don’t necessarily need an agent or consultancy firm. With the right information and documentation, you can apply for a Canada work visa on your own through a straightforward online process.

This guide will walk you through each step of the self-application process for a Canadian work permit, saving you time and money while helping you avoid common mistakes.

What Is a Canada Work Visa?

A Canada work visa, officially called a work permit, allows foreign nationals to live and work in Canada temporarily. In most cases, it requires a job offer from a Canadian employer and may involve obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

You can apply for two main types:

• Employer-Specific Work Permit
• Open Work Permit (for eligible applicants such as spouses of skilled workers or international students)

For full details, visit the Government of Canada’s official page:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit.html

Step 1: Check If You’re Eligible

Before applying, confirm that you meet these general requirements:

• A valid job offer from a Canadian employer (for employer-specific permits)
• A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), if required
• Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself
• No criminal record
• A clean bill of health (medical exam may be required)
• Intention to leave Canada when the permit expires

Use the eligibility tool:
https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/index.asp

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Step 2: Gather Your Required Documents

Here’s a list of commonly required documents for your work visa application:

• Valid passport
• Copy of your job offer letter
• Copy of the positive LMIA (if applicable)
• Completed application forms (IMM 1295 and others)
• Proof of professional qualifications or education
• Evidence of funds
• Police clearance certificate
• Medical exam results (if required)

Step 3: Create Your IRCC Online Account

To apply online, you must create an account with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC):

• Visit the official portal:
  https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application/account.html
• Sign up using your GCKey or a partner sign-in
• Choose “Apply to Come to Canada” and follow the prompts

Step 4: Fill Out the Application Forms

Use the IRCC portal to complete all required forms. Ensure all information is accurate and matches your documents. Commonly required forms include:

• IMM 1295 – Application for Work Permit Made Outside Canada
• IMM 5645 – Family Information Form
• IMM 5409 – Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (if applicable)

Save a copy of all completed forms for your records.

Step 5: Pay the Application Fees

The current fees (as of 2025) for most work permit applications include:

• Work Permit fee: CAD $155
• Biometrics fee: CAD $85 (if required)

Pay fees directly through the IRCC portal using a valid debit or credit card.

Fee details and updates:
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/fees.html

Step 6: Submit Your Application

After uploading all documents and paying your fees, you can submit your application through your IRCC account.

You’ll receive a confirmation message and a unique tracking number. IRCC may contact you for additional documents or to schedule biometrics and a visa interview, depending on your nationality and circumstances.

Step 7: Track Your Application Status

Use your IRCC portal to check real-time updates on your application progress. You can also receive email notifications when your file is updated.

For detailed tracking instructions:
https://ircc-tracker-suivi.apps.cic.gc.ca/en

Step 8: Receive Your Work Permit Decision

If approved, you’ll receive:

• A letter of introduction
• A temporary resident visa (TRV) or electronic travel authorization (eTA) (if applicable)

You must show these documents to Canadian border officers when entering Canada. Your actual work permit will be issued at the port of entry.

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