Last Updated:May 21, 2025
What is a Postdoctoral Fellows Work Permit?
The Postdoctoral Fellows Work Permit is for researchers who have obtained a Ph.D. (Doctor of Philosophy) and wish to conduct research projects at research institutions or university research departments in Canada. The Canadian host research institution or university acts as the sponsor, and the permit allows work only at that specific institution. Additionally, the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) requirement is waived.
Application requirements for Postdoctoral Fellows
- You must have obtained, or be about to obtain, a Ph.D.
- You must be appointed to a time-limited position related to the field in which you have obtained or are about to obtain your Ph.D.
- You must receive a scholarship or salary to support your period of education, advanced research, or study.
- You must be selected based on your outstanding academic achievements.
*There are two types of scholarships: one where the scholarship is directly received by the individual, and another where the individual is offered a time-limited research position either as the leader or a member of a research team.
The Postdoctoral Fellows Work Permit is exempt from the LMIA requirement
If the timing and location of the Ph.D. acquisition, as well as the position, are based on the field of the Ph.D., the LMIA requirement is waived.
Application process for a Postdoctoral Fellows work permit
01Obtaining a job offer
You will receive a job offer letter, an offer of employment number, and a receipt for the payment of the compliance fee from the accepting research institution or university in Canada.
02Application for a work permit
You will prepare the necessary documents, such as a copy of your Ph.D. certificate. You can apply online or submit your application directly at a port of entry (airport or border immigration office).
03Review by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
IRCC will review the application documents and determine whether the applicant meets the requirements.
04Obtaining a work permit
Once the application is approved, the work permit will be issued. The permit may either be mailed to you, or you may receive an approval letter and obtain the permit at the port of entry upon arrival.
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