Work permit applications come in two main flavors: employer-specific (closed) work permits requiring a job offer + LMIA (or LMIA-exempt category), and open work permits like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), spousal open work permit (SOWP), or working holiday visa (IEC).
This checklist covers the most common employer-specific scenario. Open work permits require fewer documents but very specific eligibility evidence (e.g. proof of PGWP-eligible program completion, sponsor's work permit + cohabitation proof for SOWP, etc.).
