Guide

LMIA, employer-specific permits and changing jobs in Quebec

An employer-specific work permit names a boss — and often a job and a location. Changing any of the three without authorisation can put the status itself at risk.

⚠ Immigration thresholds and programs change fast — check the date

This page describes the general structure of the system, which stays stable. But exact thresholds, fees, and specific program statuses can change within weeks. Before relying on a specific figure or date below, confirm the current status on Quebec.ca or Canada.ca.

Check before acting

An employer-specific work permit names a boss — and often a job and a location. Changing any of the three without authorisation can put the status itself at risk.

A closed permit is not a closed trade

The permit usually states employer, occupation and workplace. A new employer normally requires a new LMIA and permit; a very different job can also fall outside the authorisation.

Official sources

Sources: IRCC — work permits (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit.html); IRCC — vulnerable workers (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/vulnerable-workers.html). Checked September 20, 2026 — amounts, deadlines and fees are not reproduced here: confirm with the official source.

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