Changing employers in Canada

Overview

Changing employers in Canada

An open-permit holder can usually change employers within permit restrictions. An employer-specific permit holder normally needs a new permit and must not start the new job without authorization.

The new employer completes its immigration step

The employer may need a positive LMIA or an LMIA-exempt Employer Portal offer. The worker then submits the in-Canada employer-specific permit application with the new details.

A private agreement to transfer the employee cannot amend the printed permit.

Request interim work authorization

Eligible in-Canada workers can use IRCC’s web form after applying and request the public-policy authorization to start the new job before permit approval. Include the prescribed priority code and application details.

Wait for IRCC’s authorization email before starting.

Open permit holders still check restrictions

They can move between compliant employers, but cannot ignore medical, occupation or province limitations. Verify the new workplace is not on the non-compliant list.

Keep a copy of the valid permit and employment records.

Job loss does not cancel status immediately

An unexpired employer-specific permit can still provide temporary resident status, but it does not authorize work for someone else. Plan the new application or change to visitor before expiry.

Where abuse caused the change, consider the vulnerable-worker open permit and safety supports.