September 25, 2025
What to Do When Your Work Permit Is Tied to a Single Employer
For many foreign workers in Canada, a work permit is the gateway to professional and personal opportunities. However, some permits – often referred to as closed work permits – are tied to a specific employer. While these permits allow entry into the Canadian labour market, they also create challenges, as your legal status and ability to work are linked to one company. Understanding your rights, obligations, and available options is crucial if you find yourself in this situation.
What It Means to Have an Employer-Specific Work Permit
An employer-specific (closed) work permit authorizes you to work only for the employer listed on the permit, in the occupation, location, and duration specified by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Unlike an open work permit, you cannot switch jobs freely without applying for a new work permit.
This is common in situations such as:
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)-based work permits.
- Intra-company transferees.
- Certain international agreements or employer-specific programs.
While this framework is designed to balance labour needs with regulatory oversight, it can create obstacles if your circumstances change.
Common Challenges for Workers on Employer-Specific Work Permits
- Limited Job Flexibility
If you want to change employers, you cannot simply resign and take on a new role. A new work permit application is required. - Risk of Status Loss
If your employment ends unexpectedly (e.g., layoffs, termination, or business closure), your work permit remains valid on paper, but your legal ability to work ends.
What to Do if You Want or Need to Change Employers
If you are considering a change, here are the key steps:
- Review Your Current Work Permit
Confirm the conditions – such as the employer name, location, and expiry date. - Secure a New Job Offer
In most cases, your new employer must obtain a positive LMIA or qualify under an LMIA-exempt category before you can apply for a new work permit. - Apply for a New Work Permit
If you apply before your current status expires, you may benefit from maintained status, allowing you to remain in Canada while awaiting a decision.
Special Protections for Vulnerable Workers
Canada recognizes the potential risks for foreign workers whose status is tied to one employer. If you experience abuse or risk of abuse in your workplace, you may apply for a Vulnerable Workers Open Work Permit. This permit allows you to leave your current employer and work for almost any employer in Canada.
Practical Tips for Workers
- Keep Documentation: Maintain copies of your employment contract, pay stubs, and correspondence in case you need to prove your work history or defend your rights.
- Know Your Rights: Canadian labour laws apply to all workers, regardless of immigration status. You are entitled to fair treatment, safe conditions, and lawful pay.
- Plan Ahead: If your work permit is expiring soon or you anticipate changing jobs, begin the application process early to avoid gaps in status.
- Seek Legal Guidance: Immigration rules are complex, and professional advice can help you choose the best path forward.
While having a work permit tied to a single employer can feel restrictive, it does not mean you are without options. By understanding the conditions of your permit, exploring alternative pathways, and seeking legal advice when needed, you can protect your rights and maintain your ability to work in Canada.
At Bellissimo Law Group, we assist workers in navigating employer-specific work permits and exploring opportunities for greater flexibility. If you are concerned about your situation, our team can help you identify potential options.
Lijing Cao
Lijing’s practice encompasses a broad range of Canadian immigration matters, including all categories of work permit applications under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and the International Mobility Program, citizenship, labour market impact assessments, study permits, temporary resident permits, and sponsorship applications. She also advises entrepreneurs, business owners, international students and skilled workers on the options for permanent residence to Canada, including provincial nominee programs, Start-up Visa, Federal Skilled Worker, and Canadian Experience Class programs.
Lijing graduated from the University of Toronto with a Master of Laws (LL.M.) and holds a Juris Doctor degree from Hong Kong. She is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese Chinese. Prior to joining Bellissimo Law Group, Lijing worked as an associate lawyer at a boutique business immigration firm, where she provided advice to corporate clients to fulfill their workforce mobility and labour shortage needs.