formli AI logo formli AI
Back to Library
🇨🇦 Canada

IMM 1295 Work Permit (Canada)

Canadian Work Permit Application

Medium ~30 min Work PermitPGWPCanadaImmigration

/ What is this form?

IMM 1295 is used to apply for a Canadian work permit from outside Canada. Covers employer-specific work permits (requiring LMIA), LMIA-exempt permits (intra-company transfers, international agreements), and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) for international graduates.

/ Who needs this form?

  • Foreign workers with a Canadian job offer
  • International graduates applying for PGWP
  • Intra-company transferees
  • LMIA-exempt categories (CUSMA/NAFTA professionals, etc.)

/ What you need before you start

Valid passport
Job offer letter and employer's LMIA or exemption code
For PGWP: letter from Canadian institution confirming program completion
Proof of funds
Police certificates

/ Step-by-step guide

1 Determine Your Work Permit Type
Identify whether you need an employer-specific permit (requires LMIA or exemption code), an open work permit, or a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
2 Get Employer Documentation
Your employer must provide the LMIA number or confirm their LMIA exemption. For PGWP, obtain a completion letter from your Canadian institution.
3 Complete IMM 1295 in Adobe Reader
Fill in all sections: personal details, job offer details, LMIA or exemption code. Use Adobe Reader to generate the required barcode.
4 Gather Supporting Documents
Valid passport, job offer letter, LMIA or exemption documentation, proof of qualifications, proof of funds, and police certificates.
5 Apply Online or at a Visa Application Centre
Submit your application with all supporting documents. Track your application status through IRCC's online portal.

/ Key fields explained

Field What to enter Common mistake
LMIA number Labour Market Impact Assessment number provided by employer LMIA-exempt workers must enter the correct exemption code instead of an LMIA number

/ Common mistakes to avoid

PGWP: not applying within 180 days of receiving final grades
Not having valid study or work status when applying from inside Canada
Not understanding the difference between open work permits and employer-specific permits

/ Frequently asked questions

What is a PGWP?

Post-Graduation Work Permit allows international graduates of eligible Canadian institutions to work for 8 months to 3 years, depending on the program length.

Do I need an LMIA?

Not always. Many categories are LMIA-exempt: spouses of skilled workers, intra-company transfers, CUSMA/NAFTA workers. Check the exemption code list on canada.ca.