LAWCRESTWork permits lawyer in Mississauga
Whether you have a job offer, are graduating, or need to extend your stay, the right work permit keeps you working legally and protects your future in Canada. Lawcrest guides workers, graduates and employers across Mississauga and the GTA with clear advice and carefully prepared applications.
Apply before your current permit expires to protect your status. Working without authorization can seriously affect your future in Canada.
416-830-3369Working in Canada, the right way
Most foreign nationals need a work permit before they start working in Canada. The right permit depends on your job, your employer, your education and your situation, and the rules change often.
A mistake, such as applying late or choosing the wrong category, can lead to a refusal, a gap in your status, or a loss of work rights. Careful preparation from the start protects you.
We help workers, graduates, families and employers understand their options, choose the right permit, and present a complete, accurate application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Workers with a job offerEmployer-specific and LMIA-exempt permits.
- International graduatesPost-graduation work permits and planning your next step.
- EmployersSupport for hiring and keeping foreign workers.
Types of work permits we handle
If your situation is not listed, call us. We will tell you plainly whether we can help and what is realistic.
Employer-specific permits
Tied to one employer, often supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
LMIA-exempt permits
Certain jobs and situations that do not require an LMIA, such as some trade agreement categories.
Open work permits
Allow you to work for most employers, for those who qualify.
Post-graduation work permits
For graduates of eligible Canadian schools who want to gain work experience.
Spousal open work permits
For spouses and partners of certain workers and students, where eligible.
Bridging open work permits
For some people waiting on a permanent residence application in Canada.
Intra-company and professionals
Transfers within a company and professionals under trade agreements.
Extensions and changes
Extending your permit, changing employers or changing conditions.
When should you speak to a lawyer?
The sooner you get advice, the more options you usually have. Contact us if any of these sound familiar.
- You have a job offer from a Canadian employerWe check which permit is needed and what the employer must do.
- Your permit is about to expireApplying in time may let you keep working while you wait.
- You are graduating from a Canadian schoolStrict timing rules apply to post-graduation permits.
- You want to change employersMany permits are tied to one employer and need updating.
- Your spouse wants to workSome spouses and partners may qualify for an open permit.
- You were refused or received a concern letterDeadlines and options depend on the reason.
Pathways to a work permit
There is more than one route. We explain each, including requirements and likely timing, so you can choose with confidence.
LMIA-based permitsEmployer applies first
For many jobs, the employer must first obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment showing that no suitable Canadian worker is available. You then apply for the permit.
LMIA-exempt permitsUnder international mobility programs
Some workers qualify without an LMIA, for example under trade agreements, intra-company transfers or other special programs.
Open work permitsWork for most employers
Available in specific situations, such as for some graduates, spouses and people waiting on permanent residence.
Extensions and maintained statusApply before expiry
If you apply to extend before your permit expires, you may be able to keep working on the same conditions while the application is processed.
From work to permanent residencePlanning ahead
Canadian work experience can help with permanent residence programs. We help you plan your permit and your long-term goals together.
How we work with you
A clear process, with no surprises about where your application stands.
Consultation
You tell us about your job, status and goals. We listen, check eligibility and explain your options in plain language.
Choose the pathway
We select the right permit, plan the timeline and flag risks such as expiring status or past refusals.
Prepare the documents
We prepare accurate forms and a complete, well-organized evidence package.
Apply and follow up
We submit your application, track it and respond promptly to any requests from IRCC.
Biometrics and medicals
We guide you through any biometrics, medical exam or interview, so you know what to expect.
Decision and arrival
We review the decision with you and advise on your conditions and next steps.
For employers hiring foreign workers
Hiring from abroad or keeping a valued employee can be complex. We help Canadian businesses do it correctly and on time.
- Choosing the right programLMIA or LMIA-exempt, based on the role and the worker.
- LMIA applicationsPreparing the application and meeting the advertising and recruitment requirements.
- Job offers and contractsOffers and agreements that match the immigration requirements.
- ComplianceEmployers hosting foreign workers can be inspected. We help you keep proper records.
- Long-term retentionPlanning a path to permanent residence for key employees.
Documents we will ask you for
Do not worry if you do not have everything. Bring what you can, and we will tell you what else is useful.
- Passport and your current permit or status documents
- Job offer, contract or LMIA details from the employer
- Resume, education credentials and proof of experience
- For graduates, transcripts and your program completion letter
- Police certificates and medical results, where required
- Details of any past refusals or status problems
Timing and refusals
Many work permit rules have strict timing. Applications to extend should be made before your current permit expires. Graduates generally have a limited window after finishing their program to apply for a post-graduation permit, so do not wait.
If an application is refused, the options depend on the reason, and deadlines can be short. Judicial review in the Federal Court, for example, has its own strict time limits. Contact us immediately and bring the refusal letter. No lawyer can guarantee an outcome, but early advice gives you the strongest chance.
Why clients choose Lawcrest
You are trusting us with your career and your status in Canada. This is how we earn that trust.
Plain-language advice
No jargon. You understand each step and each choice before we act.
Cost clarity
We discuss our fees at the start. Government fees are separate, and we explain them.
Careful preparation
Complete, consistent applications reduce delays and the risk of refusal.
Confidential
What you tell us is protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Honest advice
We tell you what is realistic, and we never promise an outcome we cannot control.
Workers and employers
We act for both the worker and the business that hires them.
Regulated lawyers
Lawcrest is a professional corporation regulated by the Law Society of Ontario.
Local and accessible
Meet us at our Matheson Blvd office in Mississauga, or arrange a call.
Frequently asked questions
Still not sure? Call 416-830-3369 and we will talk it through.
What is an LMIA?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a document an employer may need from the government to hire a foreign worker, showing that no suitable Canadian worker is available. Not every job requires one.
Can I keep working while my extension is processed?
If you apply before your permit expires, you may be able to continue working under the same conditions while you wait. Conditions apply, so check your situation with us first.
Can I change employers?
Employer-specific permits are tied to one employer, so you generally need a new permit or an update before changing jobs. Open work permits allow more flexibility.
How long does a work permit take?
Processing times change and depend on the category and where you apply. IRCC publishes current estimates, and we explain what to expect after reviewing your case.
Can my family come with me?
In some cases a spouse or partner may qualify for an open work permit, and children may qualify to study. Eligibility depends on your own permit and job.
Can a work permit lead to permanent residence?
Canadian work experience can help with several permanent residence programs. We help you plan your permit with your long-term goals in mind.
What if my application is refused?
You may have options such as reapplying with stronger evidence or seeking judicial review, with strict deadlines. Contact us right away and bring the refusal letter.
Is my information confidential?
Yes. Your communications with us are protected by solicitor-client privilege.
Testimonials
They made a complicated legal matter feel understandable. We always knew what was happening, why it mattered and what came next.
Carolean
Worker
We always knew what was happening, why it mattered and what came next. They made a complicated legal matter feel understandable.
Elena
Founder of a company
Lawcrest
@2026