Types of Canadian work permits
- Employer-specific work permit (LMIA): A Canadian employer gets a Labour Market Impact Assessment showing they need to hire from abroad. This is the most common route for Kenyans.
- LMIA-exempt permits: Includes intra-company transfers and some international agreements. Fewer Kenyans qualify.
- Open work permits: For certain spouses of students or workers, and Post-Graduation Work Permits after studying in Canada.
- Care worker pathways: Canada runs home care worker pilots with limited intake windows. We'll tell you when they open.
⚠ Important: In Canada it is illegal for employers to charge workers for an LMIA or a job. If an "agent" asks you to pay for a job offer, it's almost certainly a scam. Send it to us on WhatsApp before you pay anything.
How to get a Canada work permit from Kenya
- Get a genuine job offerApply through real job boards (such as Job Bank) and company career pages, and attend a real interview.
- Employer obtains LMIAThe employer applies to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and gives you the LMIA number and job offer.
- Gather your documentsCV, reference letters, certificates, police certificate and proof you meet the job requirements.
- Apply onlineSubmit the work permit application on the IRCC portal and pay fees.
- Biometrics & medicalBiometrics at VFS Nairobi, plus a medical exam if required for your job (e.g. healthcare).
- Travel & activateGet your Port of Entry letter. Your work permit is issued at the Canadian airport.
Government fees
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Work permit processing | CAD 155 |
| Biometrics (per person) | CAD 85 |
| Open work permit holder fee (if applicable) | CAD 100 |
| LMIA fee (paid by employer, never by you) | Employer pays |
Fees are set by IRCC and can change. Our service fee is separate and shared with you upfront before you commit.
Kenya-specific tips
Get reference letters on company letterhead with your exact duties, hours per week, salary and dates. IRCC compares these to the NOC job description.
Verify the employer: website, Canadian business registration, real address and a real interview. A Gmail-only "HR" is a warning sign.
Healthcare workers (nurses, caregivers) may also need credential recognition, e.g. through NNAS for nurses.
Many skilled Kenyans qualify for Express Entry, which needs no job offer. Ask us to check yours.