Canada is actively addressing long-standing labour shortages by offering priority work permit processing for foreign workers in essential occupations. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has confirmed that applicants working in specific healthcare and agriculture/agri-food roles may benefit from expedited work permit decisions, helping employers fill critical gaps faster and supporting Canada’s economic stability.
This move is especially significant for skilled foreign workers seeking both temporary work authorization and a long-term pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada.
What Is Priority Work Permit Processing in Canada?
Priority work permit processing is not a separate immigration stream. Instead, it is an internal IRCC processing measure applied to employer-specific work permit applications in occupations considered essential to Canada’s labour market.
This accelerated processing applies to:
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LMIA-based work permits
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Francophone Mobility work permits
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Certain International Experience Canada (IEC) employer-specific permits
⚠️ Open work permits—such as Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) or IEC Working Holiday permits—generally do not qualify, as they are not tied to a specific employer or job role.
Occupations Eligible for Faster Work Permit Processing
IRCC has identified essential roles where hiring challenges persist. These occupations fall mainly under two key sectors:
Healthcare Occupations (Priority NOC Codes)
Canada’s healthcare system continues to face shortages, making the following roles eligible for expedited processing:
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Registered Nurses & Psychiatric Nurses (NOC 31301)
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Nurse Practitioners (NOC 31302)
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Licensed Practical Nurses (NOC 32101)
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General Practitioners & Family Physicians (NOC 31102)
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Medical Laboratory Technologists (NOC 32120)
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Pharmacists (NOC 31120)
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Paramedics (NOC 32102)
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Nurse Aides & Orderlies (NOC 33102)
Most of these occupations also align with Express Entry healthcare category-based draws, increasing PR opportunities.
Agriculture & Agri-Food Occupations
Canada’s food supply chain depends heavily on foreign labour. Priority processing applies to roles such as:
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Butchers – Retail & Wholesale (NOC 63201)
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Industrial Meat Cutters & Poultry Preparers (NOC 94141)
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Farm Supervisors & Agricultural Contractors (NOC 82030)
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Livestock Labourers (NOC 85100)
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Harvesting Labourers (NOC 85101)
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Food & Beverage Processing Labourers (NOC 95106)
📌 Among these, Butchers (NOC 63201) are also included in Express Entry’s agriculture category, making them especially valuable for PR planning.
How to Trigger Priority Processing (Very Important)
IRCC does not ask you to “apply” for priority processing—it is triggered by accuracy.
To be considered, applicants must:
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Use the exact NOC code listed in the employer’s LMIA or Employer Portal
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Enter only that NOC code in the “Job Title” section of the work permit form
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Ensure job duties, offer letter, and NOC code match perfectly
Any inconsistency may result in standard (slower) processing timelines.
Does Priority Processing Improve PR Chances?
Yes—indirectly but significantly.
Foreign workers who gain at least 6 months of experience in these priority occupations may qualify for category-based Express Entry draws, which often require lower CRS scores than general draws.
✔ Most healthcare occupations listed are part of the Express Entry Healthcare Category
✔ Select agri-food roles also support Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) pathways
This makes priority occupations a strategic entry point for long-term settlement in Canada.
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
Navigating Canada’s work permit and PR system requires precision, planning, and legal insight. ICC Immigration is committed to helping you choose stable, lawful immigration pathways that lead to long-term success—without unnecessary risk.
Our Services Include:
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Permanent Residency Applications through Express Entry, PNPs, and category-based draws
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Work Permits & Study Permits that strategically lead to PR
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Family Sponsorship Applications to reunite loved ones in Canada
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Expert Legal Immigration Advice to ensure compliance with IRCC rules
Instead of relying on uncertain or risky options, take control of your future with a pathway that offers security, clarity, and a real chance at Permanent Residency in Canada.
Whether you’re already in Canada or planning your journey, ICC Immigration provides personalized guidance every step of the way.