Conditions printed directly on your work permit may include:

• Type of work you’re allowed to do.
• Specific employer you can work for.
• Location where you can work.
• Duration your permit is valid for.

Even if no specific restrictions appear, standard conditions apply—for example, you must not work in businesses with potential sexual exploitation risks (e.g. strip clubs, erotic massage parlors), and you must leave Canada when your permit expires.

Common Permit Types and Their Restrictions

Employer-Specific (Closed) Work Permit

• Only valid for the named employer.
• If your employer field is filled, you cannot change employers without applying for a new permit.
• Some permits add a line like “Not authorized to work for any other employer” for clarity—but even without that sentence, you’re still restricted.

Open Work Permit

• Employer field says “unspecified” or “unknown”.
• You may work for multiple employers—but often with restrictions on types of work, such as teaching, child care, or health services.
• The most frequent condition on open permits is:
  “Not authorized to work in childcare, primary/secondary teaching, or health‑services occupations.”
  This typically happens if you haven’t completed an immigration medical exam, and can be lifted once IRCC receives your medical results.

Location Restrictions

• If you have an employer-specific permit, the location must match the LMIA or offer letter details.
• Without “various locations” noted, you must only work in the specified geographic region (e.g. city or economic region).
• Even open permits may restrict you to a single province—especially if linked to a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).

Duration & Extensions

• The validity period (often between several months to three years) is listed on your permit.
• For TFWP permits, durations are tied to the LMIA.
• IMP-based permits show time limits based on the employer’s submitted offer.
• To extend your stay in Canada legally, you must apply before your current permit expires—often with a new LMIA or updated job offer.

Summary Table

Tips & Best Practices

1. Always read and fully understand the conditions on your permit.
2. Complete your IRCC medical exam promptly if you aim to remove health-related work restrictions.
3. To change employers or locations, follow the appropriate IRCC procedures.
4. File any extension applications early to maintain your legal status in Canada.

Why This Matters

These conditions stem from IRCC’s own guidelines and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR). Understanding them helps you remain compliant, avoid violations, and enjoy a successful work experience in Canada.