Does my LMIA need to be valid when I apply?

Yes. The Manila checklist says it must be valid on the date the embassy receives your application.

Is a caregiver application handled differently?

Manila lists home care workers as a separate LMIA category on its checklist. Check the current caregiver program rules on IRCC before you apply.

Can I pay an agency for the LMIA?

No. The employer applies for and pays for the LMIA. A request to pay for one is a warning sign.

Canada work permit from the Philippines

Filipino workers need an approved Canadian work permit and, on the Philippine side, an Overseas Employment Certificate before they leave. The Manila visa office checklist spells out what it expects for each work permit category.

Written by NextMovePath editorial teamLast updated: September 28, 2026

Check my work permit options

At a glance

IRCC processing time from Philippines	6 weeks (Work permit (applying from outside Canada))IRCC's current estimate, as of September 28, 2026. Source: IRCC processing times
Proof of experience named by Manila	Employer letters with duties and earnings, pay slips, SSS contributions, payroll depositsSource: IRCC Manila visa office: Additional document checklist, work permit (IMM 5917)
Police certificate	Original NBI clearance issued within 3 months, with dry seal and thumbprintSource: IRCC Manila visa office: Additional document checklist, work permit (IMM 5917)
Before you fly	Workers on employment visas must show a valid OEC at Philippine immigrationSource: Philippine Bureau of Immigration: OEC requirement for OFWs
Fees	CAN$155 work permit plus CAN$85 biometrics; open work permit holder fee CAN$100Source: IRCC: Fee list

What documents does the Manila office want for an LMIA work permit?

A valid LMIA from ESDC on the date the embassy receives your application, the job offer letter, and proof you meet the job requirements: employer letters with duties and earnings, pay slips, SSS contribution records, education certificates and, where relevant, an English test such as IELTS. Also include an NBI clearance.

Do I need an OEC to leave the Philippines for a Canadian job?

Yes. The Bureau of Immigration says Filipinos travelling on employment visas must present a valid Overseas Employment Certificate, a Department of Migrant Workers requirement. Those on dependent visas do not need one. Plan for the OEC steps after your work permit approval so you are not stopped at departure.

How do I spot a fake Canadian job offer?

Canadian employers may not make you pay to get or keep a job or recover recruitment fees from you. You pay only your work permit, medical and biometrics fees. Be wary of offers from free email accounts, pay far above normal, or requests to send money to a personal account.

Can my spouse get an open work permit from Manila?

Possibly, if you are an eligible worker or student in Canada. The Manila checklist asks for the CAN$100 open work permit holder fee receipt, proof of relationship, the Canadian family member’s permit, and proof of their income such as a notice of assessment, T4, employment letter or pay slips.

Why applications from Philippines 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 was not satisfied you meet the job requirements or can do the work.
The LMIA had expired or the job offer could not be verified.
The officer was not satisfied you will leave Canada when the permit ends.

Not satisfied you will leave Canada Purpose of visit Family ties in Canada and at home

Already refused? Read what your refusal letter means

Work permit from Philippines: FAQ

: Yes. The Manila checklist says it must be valid on the date the embassy receives your application.
: Manila lists home care workers as a separate LMIA category on its checklist. Check the current caregiver program rules on IRCC before you apply.
: No. The employer applies for and pays for the LMIA. A request to pay for one is a warning sign.

Official sources

Get your work permit file checked before you apply

Tell us where you are in the process. A member of our team will tell you what is missing or weak in your Philippines application, before IRCC does.

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.