What is a Closed Work Permit?
Most LMIA-based work permits are "employer-specific" or "closed" – meaning the worker can only work for the specific employer named on the permit. If the worker leaves or loses that job, they may lose their legal status in Canada.
How This Enables Exploitation
The closed permit system creates a power imbalance:
- Fear of deportation: Workers tolerate abuse rather than risk losing status
- Wage theft: Employers know workers are unlikely to report unpaid wages
- Unsafe conditions: Workers may accept dangerous work rather than complain
- Changed terms: Jobs don\'t match what was promised, but workers can\'t leave
Common Exploitation Patterns
Bait and Switch
Workers are promised one job but given another:
- $35/hour trucking job becomes minimum wage warehouse work
- Full-time hours become sporadic part-time
- Promised housing doesn\'t materialize
Wage Theft
Employers withhold pay knowing workers can\'t easily report:
- Unpaid overtime
- Deductions for "accommodation" or "equipment" exceeding legal limits
- Simply not paying promised wages
Debt Bondage
Workers who paid $50,000+ for their LMIA feel trapped:
- Can\'t leave without losing their "investment"
- May have borrowed money from family
- Leaving means admitting the dream of Canada was a scam
The Open Work Permit for Vulnerable Workers
IRCC offers open work permits for workers experiencing abuse. You may qualify if you:
- Are experiencing or at risk of abuse in your job
- Have a valid employer-specific work permit
Abuse includes physical, sexual, psychological, or financial abuse. Contact IRCC or an immigration lawyer for help.
Resources for Exploited Workers
- Migrant Workers Alliance for Change: Support and advocacy
- Provincial worker advocate programs
- Legal Aid: Free legal help for low-income individuals
- Canadian Labour Congress: Worker resources
Share Your Story
If you\'ve experienced exploitation through the LMIA system, sharing your story (anonymously if needed) helps others understand what\'s happening and builds pressure for change.