Canadian Tech Employers Face Employer Portal Steps for LMIA-Exempt Work Permits

Hiring a foreign national for a Canadian tech role may not require an LMIA, but many employer-specific permits still need an offer of employment submitted through IRCC's Employer Portal. A missing or inaccurate portal filing can delay an otherwise sound application. Employers must confirm the correct exemption code, issue a detailed signed employment agreement, submit the offer, and pay the current $230 compliance fee unless an exemption applies. The portal-generated offer number, which starts with an "A" followed by seven digits, is then given to the worker for use in the work permit application. Employers are advised to keep the portal listing, employment agreement and application consistent, with specific job details rather than generic templates.