Can I Change Employers on a Closed Work Permit?
Yes, but not with the permit you have. A closed (employer-specific) work permit only lets you work for the employer named on it. To switch, your new employer needs an LMIA or an LMIA-exempt job offer, and you apply for a new work permit from inside Canada. You don't always have to wait for approval: under IRCC's temporary public policy, you can request authorization to start the new job while your application is processed. IRCC aims to reply in about 10 to 15 days.
Closed vs open work permits
| Permit type | Can you change employers? |
|---|---|
| Open work permit (including PGWP and spousal) | Yes, at any time while it's valid |
| Employer-specific (closed) work permit | Only with a new work permit, or an authorization email while it's processed |
How to change employers, step by step
- Get a job offer from your new employer.
- Your employer gets an LMIA, or submits an LMIA-exempt offer through IRCC's Employer Portal and pays the employer compliance fee. They'll give you the LMIA or offer of employment number.
- Apply online for a new employer-specific work permit from inside Canada.
- Request authorization to start working using IRCC's web form and the code PPCHANGEWORK2020, after you've applied.
- Wait for IRCC's email (about 10 to 15 days for online applications) before starting with the new employer.
The authorization to start early
- You must have applied for a new employer-specific work permit in Canada.
- You must currently hold an employer-specific permit, or be a worker who can work without one.
- The email lets you work for the new employer while your application is processed. It is not your work permit.
- It's not available to business visitors and some short-term Global Skills Strategy workers. IEC participants must check their own rules first.
Can I keep working for my current employer?
Yes, as long as your current permit is valid (or you're on maintained status under its conditions). Don't start with the new employer until you get either your new permit or the authorization email.
What if I lose my job?
You'll need a new job offer and a new work permit (or authorization email) before you can work again. Stop working for any employer until then. Keep your status valid: apply to extend or change your status before your permit expires.
Common mistakes we see
- Starting the new job the day you apply. Wait for the authorization email or the permit.
- Assuming a new job with the same employer is fine. A different occupation can also need a new permit.
- Paying for an LMIA or job offer. Employers can't charge you for this.
- Letting your permit expire while job hunting.
Every situation is different. GLC Immigration Consulting can help in three ways:
- Consultation: a one-on-one session with Osaro Ezomo, RCIC, to review your situation and your options.
- Full representation: we prepare and submit your application and act as your authorized representative with IRCC, from start to finish.
- Pre-submission review: you prepare your own application, and we review it for errors, gaps and risks before you submit.
To request full representation or a pre-submission review, or for any other question, email us at hello@gradlifecanada.ca.
Frequently asked questions
Can I change employers on a closed work permit?
Yes, but you need a new employer-specific work permit, or an authorization email from IRCC while your new permit application is processed.
Can I start working for my new employer before my new permit is approved?
Possibly. After applying, you can request authorization under IRCC's temporary public policy. If IRCC approves, you get an email letting you start; IRCC aims to reply in about 10 to 15 days.
Does my new employer need an LMIA?
Usually yes, unless the job is LMIA-exempt. LMIA-exempt employers submit the offer in IRCC's Employer Portal.
Can I change employers on an open work permit?
Yes, at any time while your open work permit is valid.
What happens if I lose my job on a closed work permit?
You must stop working until you get a new job offer and a new work permit or authorization email.
Fact-checked: Based on IRCC's Changing jobs or employers (October 8, 2026), If you lose your job, Guide 5553, and the IRCC Help Centre (October 30, 2026). Verified November 9, 2026.
Disclaimer: This article is general information only and is not legal or immigration advice. Immigration rules change often. For advice on your situation, speak with a licensed immigration professional.
Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant, licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC), licence #R711785. Osaro is the principal consultant at GLC Immigration Consulting in Calgary, Alberta, helping clients with Express Entry, provincial nomination, work and study permits and family sponsorship.
Book a consultation · hello@gradlifecanada.ca