Temporary Foreign Worker Program (LMIA)

Yes, but only if your job falls under TEER categories 0, 1, 2, or 3 (High-Skilled). Spouses of low-skilled workers (TEER 4 or 5) generally do not qualify for an open work permit, though there are ongoing pilot programs that may offer exceptions.

No. This is an **Employer-Specific Work Permit** (Closed Permit). You are legally authorized to work *only* for the employer listed on your permit. To change employers, your new employer must obtain a fresh LMIA and you must apply for a new work permit.

The distinction depends on whether your offered wage is below or above the median hourly wage of the province. The **Low-Wage stream** has stricter caps on the percentage of foreign workers an employer can hire and more frequent reporting requirements.

Most LMIA-based permits are issued for 1 to 2 years. While they can be extended, there is no longer a '4-year limit' (the cumulative duration rule was abolished in 2016), but you must still prove you will leave at the end of your authorized stay.