Canada’s work permit system provides two key pathways for foreign workers: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP). While most work permit applicants must apply online from outside Canada, certain individuals may be eligible to apply at the port of entry (POE) when arriving in Canada.
Here’s what you need to know for 2025.
Who Can Apply for a Work Permit at a Port of Entry?
According to subsection R198(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), the following individuals may apply for a work permit at a Canadian port of entry:
- Visa-exempt foreign nationalswhose job falls under the IMP (i.e. no LMIA required).
- Visa-exempt foreign nationalswith a positive or neutral LMIA under the TFWP.
- S. citizens or permanent residents, and citizens of Greenland or Saint-Pierre and Miquelon, regardless of LMIA requirements.
- Workers in categories where port of entry applications are permitted (e.g., not live-in caregivers or seasonal agricultural workers).
- Those with valid immigration medical examination (IME)results, if required.
Who Cannot Apply at a Port of Entry?
Per subsection R198(2) and ministerial instructions, the following are not eligible to apply at a POE:
- Individuals applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Persons not exempt from the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)requirement
- Anyone requiring an IMEbut lacking valid results
- Participants in the International Youth Exchange Program, unless they’re U.S. citizens or permanent residents
- Seasonal Agricultural Workers
- Citizens of countries listed under R7.01(1) who are not TRV-exempt
Flagpoling Restrictions
As of December 24, 2024, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) no longer processes flagpoling applications for work or study permits at POEs. Flagpoling is when temporary residents exit and re-enter Canada via the U.S. or Saint-Pierre and Miquelon solely to obtain immigration services. These applicants must now apply from within Canada (R199).
Special Considerations
Some individuals can still apply at POE despite holding temporary status in Canada, including:
- S. citizens or permanent residents
- Professionals and techniciansunder Free Trade Agreements (e.g., NAFTA, Chile, Colombia, Peru, Korea, Panama)
- Truck driversworking internationally with pending work permit renewals under R186(u)
- Individuals with pre-scheduled CBSA appointments
What About a Letter of Introduction?
Applicants outside Canada who are approved for a work permit receive a Letter of Introduction (LOI). This document must be presented at a POE for final approval. However, LOI holders already in Canada cannot use the U.S. or Saint-Pierre and Miquelon re-entry route to activate their permit unless they meet POE application eligibility.
Important Note for Air Travelers
Even TRV-exempt individuals must obtain an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before flying to Canada.
Need help determining your eligibility to apply for a work permit at a Canadian port of entry?
Contact us today at 204-944-8889 or email us at lawoffice@fridman.ca to ensure you’re prepared with the correct documents and understand your legal options.
This post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please refer to the IRCC official website for full details.