Job Spectra

Jobs in Canada for Indians: employer-specific work permits, LMIA and your rights

Most Indians go to Canada on an employer-specific work permit. The employer first finds out whether the job needs a labour market impact assessment (LMIA), then gives you the documents, such as the LMIA letter and Annex A, to include in your work permit application. Canada.ca says employers cannot make you pay recruitment fees.

How does an Indian get a job in Canada on a work permit?

Most Indians go to Canada on an employer-specific work permit. The employer first finds out whether the job needs a labour market impact assessment (LMIA), then gives you the documents, such as the LMIA letter and Annex A, to include in your work permit application. Canada.ca says employers cannot make you pay recruitment fees.

How the employer-specific route works

1. A Canadian employer offers you a job. Canada.ca says the employer must find out whether the job needs an LMIA or is LMIA-exempt before you apply.
2. If an LMIA is needed, the employer gives you documents such as the LMIA letter and Annex A from their positive LMIA, which you include in your application.
3. You apply for the work permit. Canada.ca says the instructions vary by where you apply: from outside Canada, inside Canada, at a port of entry or as an extension.
4. The permit names your employer. Canada.ca says an employer-specific permit only lets you work for that employer, so you need a new permit to change employer.

What an LMIA is

Canada.ca defines a labour market impact assessment as a document proving there is a need to hire a foreign worker for the job, and states that most jobs need one. The page we read does not list which jobs are exempt, so ask the employer which category your job falls into and keep that answer in writing. Canada.ca's published page was dated 31 March 2026.

Fees and your rights

• Canada.ca says employers and supervisors cannot make you pay to get or keep your job or reimburse recruitment fees they paid for your position, and that you only have to pay for your work permit, medical exam and biometrics if required.
• Your employer must give you a signed copy of your employment agreement and information about your rights on or before your first day of work, and pay you as stated in the agreement.
• You have the same rights and protections as Canadians and permanent residents, and an employer cannot punish you for reporting mistreatment or unsafe work.
• To report abuse, Service Canada's tip line is 1-866-602-9448, a confidential service. In an emergency call 9-1-1.

Before you pay anyone

Because Canada.ca says you cannot be made to pay recruitment fees for your current position, treat any "LMIA for sale" offer as a warning sign. Read the overseas job scam guide and the step-by-step job abroad guide. If you want permanent residence rather than a work permit, see the Express Entry and CRS guide. You can also browse jobs or submit your CV.

Official sources

• Canada.ca: employer-specific work permits
• Canada.ca: temporary foreign workers, your rights are protected

Last reviewed 2026-10-17. Information only, not legal advice.

Related guides

• Canada Express Entry and the CRS score: how it works for Indian applicants
• How to get a job abroad from India: a safe, step-by-step guide
• Overseas job scams in India: warning signs and what to do
• UK Skilled Worker visa for Indians: requirements, process and timeline