Under Canada’s caregiver programmes, if you hold an occupation-restricted open work permit, you generally do not need a new Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to change employers. However, you must update Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) if your specific job duties or TEER category change. The standard application fee for changing work conditions is $155 CAD.
Caregivers play an essential role in the Canadian labour market, providing vital support to families from British Columbia to Nova Scotia. Sometimes, working relationships change, and you may find yourself needing to switch employers. The good news is that Canada has modernized its caregiver pathways to offer more flexibility, helping protect workers from abusive situations and making job transitions much easier.
Whether you are caring for children in Toronto or supporting an elderly individual in Calgary, navigating the IRCC rules correctly is crucial. A simple mistake in your paperwork could jeopardize your legal status or delay your permanent residence pathway. If you find the process overwhelming, it is always a smart idea to consult an immigration lawyer from our directory to ensure your transition goes smoothly.
Step-by-Step Process for Changing Employers in Canada
The process for changing employers depends largely on the specific type of work permit you currently hold. Those under the Home Child Care Provider Pilot or Home Support Worker Pilot generally have occupation-restricted open work permits. Here is how you can manage the change safely and legally across Canada.
Step 1: Review Your Current Work Permit Conditions
Before leaving your current job, look closely at the physical copy of your work permit. 🔍 An occupation-restricted open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, as long as the job falls under the specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) code or TEER category listed on the document (for example, TEER 4 for home child care providers). If your permit specifies an employer’s name, you have an employer-specific work permit, and the rules will be entirely different.
Step 2: Secure a New Eligible Employer
You must find a new family or employer who needs your services in the same occupation. Your new employer does not necessarily need to apply for a new LMIA, but they must provide you with a formal job offer and an employment contract detailing your wages, hours, and duties. Ensure the contract meets provincial labour standards regarding minimum wage and vacation pay, whether you are in Ontario, Alberta, or Manitoba.
Step 3: Submit a Change of Conditions Application (If Required)
If you are shifting to a different occupation or if your current permit is employer-specific, you must formally apply to change the conditions of your stay using IRCC Form IMM 5710. You will need to create an account on the IRCC secure portal, upload your new job offer, and pay the required government processing fees. It is generally advised to remain in your current position (if safe to do so) while waiting for the new permit.
| Permit Type | New LMIA Required? | Can I Change Employers Freely? |
|---|---|---|
| Occupation-Restricted Open | No | Yes, within the same occupation code. |
| Employer-Specific (Closed) | Yes, typically | No, you must wait for a new permit to arrive. |
How Much Does it Cost in Canada?
When changing your employer or work permit conditions, you must account for several government fees. All figures are in Canadian dollars (CAD). Note that fees are subject to change, so always verify the latest amounts directly with IRCC.
- Work Permit Processing Fee: $155 CAD (Standard fee for applying to change conditions).
- Open Work Permit Holder Fee: $100 CAD (If you are upgrading to an unrestricted open work permit).
- Biometrics Fee: $85 CAD (Only if your previous biometrics have expired, which is rare as they last 10 years).
- Lawyer Fees: Typically between $1,000 and $2,500 CAD, depending on the law firm and the complexity of your case.
How Long Does the Process Take?
⌛ Processing times for an in-Canada work permit extension or change of conditions can fluctuate wildly based on the IRCC backlog. Generally, online applications submitted from within Canada take between 80 to 120 days to be processed. If you hold an occupation-restricted open work permit and are simply switching to a new family within the exact same NOC code, you may not need to wait for a new permit at all-you can often start immediately once the new contract is signed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I start working for the new employer right away?
If you have an occupation-restricted open work permit and your new job is in the exact same occupation, yes. If you have an employer-specific work permit, you generally must wait until IRCC approves your new work permit before you begin working for the new employer.
Do my new work hours count towards permanent residence?
Yes, as long as the employment is full-time (at least 30 hours per week), authorized, and falls under the correct eligible caregiver occupation (NOC 44100 or 44101).
What happens if I experience abuse from my employer?
If you are facing physical, financial, or psychological abuse, you may be eligible for an Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers. This process is expedited and allows you to leave a dangerous situation quickly. A local immigration lawyer can assist you with this emergency application confidentially.
Do I need to notify Service Canada?
Generally, you only communicate with IRCC for immigration status updates. However, you should update your employer information on your CRA account for tax purposes, and ensure your new employer provides you with a Record of Employment (ROE) from the old job.
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