Guide to IMM 1295 for Work Permit Applications

Working in Canada is one of the most common goals for newcomers, and a work permit is the gateway to legal employment for most foreign nationals. Form IMM 1295, "Application for Work Permit Made Outside of Canada" (or the equivalent form for applications made inside Canada), is the main form you fill out. Understanding the different types of work permits and how to complete this form correctly is crucial for a successful application.

Types of Work Permits

Employer-Specific Work Permits

These permits tie you to a specific employer, job location, and duration. Your employer usually needs to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before you can apply. The LMIA proves that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available for the job.

LMIA-Exempt Work Permits

Some work permits do not require an LMIA. Common LMIA-exempt categories include:

• International trade agreements (CUSMA/NAFTA, CPTPP, CETA)
• Intra-company transfers
• Post-graduation work permits (PGWP) for graduates of Canadian DLIs
• Spousal open work permits (for spouses of skilled workers or students)
• International Experience Canada (IEC) working holidays
• Bridging open work permits (for those transitioning to permanent residence)

Open Work Permits

Open work permits let you work for any employer in Canada, in any job, in any location. They are typically available to:

• Spouses of skilled workers or international students
• PGWP holders
• IEC participants
• Applicants for permanent residence who qualify for a bridging open work permit

Step-by-Step: Completing IMM 1295

Section 1: Personal Information

Enter your full legal name, date of birth, country of birth, citizenship, passport details, and current immigration status (if already in Canada). Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.

Section 2: Contact Information

Provide your current mailing address, phone number, and email. If you are applying from outside Canada, provide your address in your home country.

Section 3: Employment Details

• Employer name and address (for employer-specific permits)
• LMIA number (if applicable) or the employer's offer of employment number (for LMIA-exempt categories)
• Job title and NOC code: Use the IRCC NOC finder to identify the correct code
• Duration of employment: Start and end dates
• Salary or wages: Must meet or exceed the prevailing wage for the position and region

Section 4: Education and Work Experience

Provide your educational background and employment history for the past 10 years. This is similar to the information on IMM 5669 Schedule A.

Section 5: Background Questions

Answer questions about criminal convictions, immigration violations, health conditions, and previous visa refusals. Be truthful in all responses.

Section 6: Family Information

Declare your spouse and dependent children. If your spouse wants to work in Canada while you are on a work permit, they may qualify for an open work permit of their own.

Required Supporting Documents

Depending on your work permit type, you may need:

• A valid passport
• A job offer letter from the Canadian employer
• The LMIA confirmation letter (if LMIA-required)
• Proof of qualifications (degrees, certificates, professional licenses)
• Police clearance certificates
• Medical exam results (if required)
• Proof of financial means to support yourself (and family, if applicable)
• Passport-size photographs
• Payment of the work permit processing fee ($155) and, if applicable, the open work permit holder fee ($100)

Applying Online

Most work permit applications are submitted online through the IRCC online portal. After creating your account:

1. Answer the eligibility questions to determine the correct application stream
2. Complete IMM 1295 and any supplementary forms
3. Upload all supporting documents
4. Pay the processing fee
5. Submit biometrics if required
6. Track your application status online

Common Mistakes

• Applying under the wrong category: There are many work permit streams. Make sure you select the correct one based on your situation (LMIA, LMIA-exempt, open, employer-specific).
• Expired LMIA: An LMIA is valid for six months. If your employer's LMIA expires before you apply, you cannot use it.
• Not matching the job offer: Your qualifications and experience must match the job requirements stated in the LMIA or job offer. Discrepancies will cause a refusal.
• Forgetting about biometrics: Many nationalities must provide biometrics. Check whether you need to and budget time for the appointment.

For related guides, see our articles on IMM 1294 Study Permit, IMM 5257 Visitor Visa, and IMM 1344 PR Card Application.

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