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Canada Work Permit from Malawi

Employer-sponsored work permits fall into two categories LMIA-based and LMIA-exempt. Here's exactly how each works, the real fees, and what to plan for since biometrics can't be completed inside Malawi.

Malawi work permit specialists
Last reviewed: July 2026 · Fees per IRCC/ESDC schedules
Quick answer
  • Two main routes: LMIA-based or LMIA-exempt (intra-company transfer, significant benefit).
  • The $1,000 LMIA fee is paid by the employer illegal for them to charge it to you.
  • You pay: $155 processing fee + $85 biometrics, plus $100 more for an open work permit.
  • Police clearance from the Malawi Police Service is a standard requirement.
  • No VAC in Malawi factor travel time and cost into your timeline for biometrics.
  • Path to PR: 12 months of skilled work experience typically qualifies you for CEC.
Overview LMIA vs exempt Real fees How it works Documents FAQ
RCIC
Reviewed by GetNorthPath's RCIC teamCICC-licensed · Verify at college-ic.ca · Content last reviewed July 2026
Overview

The two paths to a Canadian work permit

Most employer-sponsored Canada work permits for Malawian applicants fall into one of two categories: an LMIA-based permit, where the employer proves no Canadian worker was available, or an LMIA-exempt permit under categories like intra-company transfers or significant economic benefit.

The key distinction

LMIA-based vs. LMIA-exempt

TypeEmployer requirementTypical timeline
LMIA-based
Employer proves no Canadian was available, pays $1,000 LMIA fee.
14–26 weeks total
LMIA-exempt
Employer submits an Offer of Employment, pays $230 compliance fee.
8–14 weeks typical

Timelines include the additional step of travel for biometrics, since no VAC operates in Malawi.

Real fees

Who actually pays what

FeeAmountWho pays
LMIA application fee$1,000
Employer
Employer compliance fee (LMIA-exempt)$230
Employer
Work permit processing fee$155
You
Biometrics fee$85
You
Open work permit holder fee+$100
You
Red flag read this carefully
If an employer or "agent" asks you to pay the $1,000 LMIA fee, this violates federal regulations. Verify job offers independently before paying anyone anything.
Step by step

How Malawian applicants get a work permit

Job offer

From a Canadian employer meeting IRCC standards.

LMIA status

Employer determines if LMIA is required.

Documents

Passport, offer letter, police clearance.

Submit

With LMIA or Offer of Employment number.

Travel for biometrics

To the nearest VAC, then decision.

Malawi-specific document requirements

What to prepare

Police clearance
From the Malawi Police Service in Lilongwe or Blantyre request early, as processing can take several weeks.
Medical exam
Depends on occupation and length of stay book immediately if required.
Job offer letter
Must state wage, duties, hours, and duration.
Biometrics travel
No VAC operates in Malawi budget time and cost for travel to the nearest one.
FAQ

Work permit from Malawi questions answered

Do I pay the LMIA fee?
+
No. The $1,000 CAD LMIA fee is paid entirely by the Canadian employer. It is illegal for an employer to pass this cost to you.
What do I actually pay?
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You pay the $155 CAD work permit processing fee and an $85 CAD biometrics fee, plus $100 CAD more if applying for an open work permit.
What's the difference between LMIA-based and LMIA-exempt?
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LMIA-based permits require the employer to pay a $1,000 fee and prove no Canadian could fill the role. LMIA-exempt permits skip this step, with a $230 employer compliance fee instead.
Do I need a police certificate?
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Yes, generally, through the Malawi Police Service in Lilongwe or Blantyre request it early, as processing can take several weeks.
Where do I complete biometrics?
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Since no Visa Application Centre operates in Malawi, applicants must travel to the nearest country with a VAC. Check IRCC's current VAC list early to plan the trip.
Can this lead to permanent residence?
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Yes. After 12 months of skilled work experience, most work permit holders become eligible for the Canadian Experience Class.
How do I avoid work permit scams?
+
Never pay an employer or recruiter the LMIA fee directly this is illegal and a common scam pattern. Verify job offers independently.
Sources & further reading

This page is reviewed periodically by GetNorthPath's licensed RCIC team. General information, not individualized legal advice.

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