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Canada work permit from Nepal: real job offers and how to avoid scams

Most Nepali applicants need a job offer from a Canadian employer, usually backed by an LMIA, before they can get a work permit. Paying a manpower agent in Nepal for a “Canada job visa” is a common way to lose money. Here is how the real process works.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated:


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At a glance

IRCC processing time from Nepal9 weeks (Work permit (applying from outside Canada))IRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
BiometricsCanada VAC in KathmanduSource: IRCC: Find a visa application centre
Government feesCAD 155 work permit + CAD 85 biometrics (about NPR 26,000)Source: IRCC: Fee list
Police certificatePolice Clearance Certificate, applied for online with Nepal PoliceSource: IRCC: How to get a police certificate, Nepal
Medical exam (if required)IRCC panel physicians in KathmanduSource: IRCC: Find a panel physician

How do I get a Canada work permit from Nepal?

In most cases a Canadian employer must first get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) showing no Canadian was available, then give you a written job offer. You apply online with the offer, the LMIA number, experience letters and qualifications, then give biometrics in Kathmandu.

How can I tell if a Canadian job offer is fake?

Warning signs are an offer with no interview, a request to pay for the LMIA or the job, wages far above normal, and contact only through WhatsApp or free email. An employer is not allowed to charge you for an LMIA. Verify the company yourself before paying anyone.

  • Ask for the employer’s legal name, Canadian address and phone number, and check them independently.
  • A real LMIA-based offer names the job, wage and work location.
  • Anyone charging for Canadian immigration advice must be a licensed RCIC or lawyer.

Can my spouse get an open work permit if I work in Canada?

Only in some cases. Your job must be in TEER 0 or 1, or in a select list of TEER 2 or 3 occupations, and in most cases your work permit must be valid for at least 16 months after IRCC receives your spouse’s application.

How do I get a Nepal police clearance for a work permit?

Apply online through the Nepal Police Online Police Clearance Registration System, available in Nepali and English. IRCC calls the document a Police Clearance Certificate. Apply early so it is ready when IRCC asks, and get one from any other country where you lived 6 months or more since 18.

Why applications from Nepal get refused

These are the grounds IRCC officers most often write in refusal letters for this kind of application. They are typical grounds, not statistics. Fix them before you apply, not after.

  • The officer is not satisfied you can do the job, for example experience letters do not match the duties.
  • The officer is not satisfied you will leave Canada when the permit ends.
  • The job offer or employer does not look genuine.
Not satisfied you will leave CanadaPurpose of visitFamily ties in Canada and at home
Already refused? Read what your refusal letter means

Work permit from Nepal: FAQ

Usually not. Open work permits exist for specific groups, such as some spouses and graduates of Canadian schools, but not for general applicants abroad.
Canadian employers cannot charge workers for an LMIA. If anyone asks you to pay for a Canadian job or LMIA, treat it as a warning sign.
The IRCC processing time is in the table above. It does not include the employer’s LMIA time.

Official sources

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This page is general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules, fees and document lists change often. Confirm current requirements on canada.ca or with a licensed Canadian immigration representative (RCIC or lawyer) before you apply.