How to get your Toronto work visa fast

Toronto is one of the most dynamic, diverse, and opportunity-rich cities in the world. Whether you’re a skilled professional, a recent graduate, or a digital nomad, Toronto offers endless possibilities for career growth, innovation, and personal development. But before you can build your future in Canada’s largest city, you need to secure the right work visa — and do it fast.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about getting a Toronto work visa quickly, including:

• The types of Canadian work permits available

• Who is eligible to work in Toronto

• Fast-track options to speed up your application

• Tips to avoid delays and get approved faster

• Helpful resources and insider advice

Let’s dive in.

Why Work in Toronto?

Before we jump into the visa process, let’s talk about why Toronto is a top destination for international talent:

• Thriving economy: Toronto is Canada’s business capital, home to financial institutions, tech giants, healthcare innovation, and more.

• Multicultural city: Over 50% of Toronto’s residents were born outside Canada, making it one of the most diverse cities globally.

• High quality of life: Great public transport, healthcare, safety, and endless cultural experiences.

• Global career opportunities: Companies in Toronto often seek international talent in IT, finance, engineering, healthcare, and skilled trades.

Now let’s explore how you can get there fast.

Step 1: Understand the Types of Work Visas in Canada

Canada offers different types of work permits, and choosing the right one is the first step to speeding up your process. Here are the main categories:

1. Employer-Specific Work Permit Toronto work visa 

This is the most common option for people who already have a job offer from a Canadian employer. The permit allows you to work for a specific employer under set conditions (location, duration, job role).

You’ll need:

• A valid job offer

• A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer

• Proof of qualifications

2. Open Work Permit

This visa allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with some exceptions. It’s usually given to:

• Spouses of skilled workers or students

• International graduates under the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

• People applying for permanent residency under special programs

3. Global Talent Stream (GTS) Toronto work visa 

If you’re in tech or specialized roles, GTS is a fast-track visa option that can get you a work permit in as little as 2 weeks.

Eligible job titles include:

• Software engineers

• Web developers

• Data analysts

• AI and machine learning experts

• IT consultants

If you’re in tech and your employer is GTS-qualified, this is your best route.

Step 2: Secure a Job Offer (Faster Than You Think)

Getting a job offer from a Canadian employer is often the key to a fast visa. Here’s how to make it happen quickly:

1. Target Toronto-Based Employers Actively Hiring International Talent

Look for companies with:

• A history of sponsoring international workers

• Openings listed under Global Talent Stream

• Jobs in high-demand industries (tech, healthcare, construction, etc.)

Websites to find such jobs:

• Job Bank Canada

• Indeed Canada

• LinkedIn Jobs

• Glassdoor Canada

2. Tailor Your Resume for Canadian Standards

A Canadian-style resume is:

• One to two pages max

• Uses clear job titles

• Highlights achievements and metrics

• Includes relevant keywords

3. Highlight Eligibility to Work Fast

In your cover letter or interviews, let employers know:

• You are eligible for fast processing via GTS or other streams

• You have required documents and are ready to relocate

• You’re willing to collaborate on the LMIA or visa process

Employers are more likely to engage if they know it won’t take months to bring you on board.

Step 3: Apply Through the Right Stream

Once you have a job offer, here’s how to apply for your work visa efficiently:

1. Global Talent Stream (Fastest Option)

Processing time: 2 weeks (after LMIA is approved)

Here’s what you and your employer need:

• Employer applies for GTS LMIA

• Submit a Labor Market Benefits Plan

• Once approved, apply online through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada)

Documents you’ll need:

• Passport

• Job offer letter

• LMIA approval letter

• Educational certificates

• Police clearance (if required)

• Medical exams (for some jobs)

2. Regular Work Permit with LMIA

Processing time: 6–10 weeks, but may vary by country

Steps:

• Employer gets LMIA (can take up to 1 month)

• You apply online with all supporting documents

• Biometrics and possibly a medical exam

• Wait for approval

To speed things up:

• Apply online (not paper)

• Submit complete documents in one go

• Be available for biometrics and health exams quickly

3. Express Entry (If You’re Also Interested in PR)

While not a work permit, Express Entry is a way to get permanent residency (and open work eligibility) if:

• You’re a skilled worker

• You meet the CRS (Comprehensive Ranking System) criteria

• You have Canadian work experience or a job offer

It can be fast — some PRs are processed in 6 months or less — and it opens doors to working and living anywhere in Canada.

Step 4: Prepare Required Documents Early

Nothing slows down a visa process like missing paperwork. Here’s what to gather in advance:

• Valid passport (minimum 6 months left)

• Digital photo (passport-size)

• Educational degrees or diplomas

• Work experience letters

• Police certificate (from current country of residence)

• Proof of funds (if applying without a job offer)

• Proof of relationship (for spousal open work permit)

• Updated resume (optional but helpful)

Having everything ready can shave weeks off your application time.

Step 5: Use the Right Portals and Professionals

Apply through the official portal:
IRCC Online Application

To avoid mistakes, you can also:

• Hire a Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC)

• Use a recruitment agency familiar with international hires

• Ask your employer if they provide immigration support

Bonus Tips to Speed Up the Process

• Avoid peak application seasons (apply before summer or year-end if possible)

• Pay fees promptly to avoid delays

• Keep checking your IRCC account for messages or updates

• Be ready for medical and biometrics appointments ASAP

• Use a scanner to submit high-quality documents