How to obtain a work permit if you have not yet received PR?

Obtaining a work permit before obtaining permanent resident status is an important step for many immigrants who wish to start a professional career in Canada. Calgary, one of Alberta's largest economic centers, attracts thousands of foreign professionals with its developed oil and gas, technology, and financial industries. The process of obtaining a work permit can seem daunting, but understanding the categories, requirements, and procedures makes it much easier.

Canada's temporary work permit system

Canada offers two main routes for temporary workers:

  1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Requires a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) confirming that there will be no negative impact on the Canadian labor market.

  2. International Mobility Program (IMP) Exempts from the LMIA requirement based on international agreements or specialized programs and requires the employer to pay a fee ($230).

Permits requiring an LMIA

  1. Role of the employer The employer submits an application to ESDC/Service Canada. The average processing time is 3–6 months.
  2. LMIA categories

  • High-wage positions (salary ≥ provincial median).

  • Low-wage positions (salary < median).

  1. Job advertising Minimum 4 weeks on Job Bank + two additional platforms.
  2. Applying for a work permit After a positive LMIA, the employee submits an application to IRCC. Processing takes several weeks.

Open work permits

Spouses and partners

  • Partners of master's (≥16 months), doctoral, professional program students, or TEER 0–3 employees are eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

  • Available to graduates of Designated Learning Institutions
  • Duration: up to 3 years (depending on the program).
  • Application must be submitted within 180 days of graduation.

Work for students

  • On-campus: no separate permit, no hour limit.
  • Off-campus: up to 20 hours/week during the semester, full-time during breaks.
  • A valid Study Permit with work authorization and a SIN are required.

International Experience Canada (IEC)

Available to citizens aged 18–35 (age depends on country):

  • Working Holiday — work for up to 24 months with no employer restrictions.
  • Young Professionals — work in your field.
  • International Co-op — paid internship.

Work permits for refugees and asylum seekers

  • Application after referral to the Refugee Protection Division.
  • Fee waiver and possibility of renewal for 2 years while the case is pending.

City of Calgary requirements

  • City jobs: must have status that allows you to work (citizenship, PR, or valid work permit).
  • Foreign qualifications are assessed through IQAS or another recognized service.

Support for temporary workers

  • Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS): free services, including TFW Hub.
  • Alberta Temporary Foreign Worker Advisory Office: advice on rights and applying for an Open Work Permit in cases of abuse.

Application procedure

  1. Online profile on the IRCC portal.

  2. Documents: passport, Job Offer, LMIA/offer number, financial evidence, medical examination (if required), police clearance.

  3. Payment: $155 (Work Permit) + $100 (Open Work Permit if required).

  4. Biometrics: submission of fingerprints and photo.

  5. Processing: application status can be tracked in your IRCC account.

Renewal and extension of permit

  • Apply at least 30 days before the expiry of your current permit.
  • The applicant retains Implied Status and may continue to work under the same conditions until a decision is made.

Special programs and exceptions

  • Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program — seasonal agricultural work.
  • Global Talent Stream — expedited LMIA for technology professionals (10 business days).
  • CUSMA/CETA/other agreements — LMIA-exempt permits for business visitors, investors, intra-company transfers.

Rights and responsibilities of temporary workers

  • Right to safe working conditions, fair pay, and protection from discrimination.
  • Ability to contact the TFWAO if your rights are violated.
  • Obligation to comply with the terms of the permit and leave Canada after it expires (unless PR status has been obtained).

Summary

Obtaining a work permit before receiving PR in Calgary requires an understanding of the relevant program (TFWP, IMP, IEC, etc.), timely collection of documents, and compliance with IRCC procedures. Canadian work experience not only opens up access to the Alberta labor market, but also strengthens future applications for permanent residence. To simplify the process, it is advisable to use the services of immigration consultants, CCIS and TFWAO resources, and closely monitor updates to the rules in 2025.