How much does a Canadian work permit cost?
Government fees include a CAD 155 work permit fee, CAD 85 biometrics, and, for open work permits, a CAD 100 holder fee. Employer-side costs add an LMIA fee of CAD 1,000 per position or a CAD 230 compliance fee for LMIA-exempt streams.
The employer pays the CAD 1,000 LMIA processing fee for each position and is prohibited from recovering it from the foreign worker. Recruitment fees charged to the worker are also generally not allowed.
What is the difference between LMIA and LMIA-exempt?
LMIA-based permits require a Labour Market Impact Assessment showing no Canadian is available. LMIA-exempt permits fall under the International Mobility Program, cover treaty and intra-company transfers, and require a CAD 230 employer compliance fee instead.
Are legal and recruitment fees included?
No. These estimates cover government fees only. Employers often also pay for recruitment, legal representation, advertising, and sometimes travel, which can add thousands of dollars.