What is the C10 Significant Benefit Work Permit? A Complete Guide (Including Options for Doctors)

 

This blog post breaks down everything you need to know about this special Canadian work permit, including who qualifies, how it works, and how doctors can use it to work in Canada.

What Is the C10 Significant Benefit Work Permit?

The C10 Significant Benefit Work Permit is a Canadian work permit issued without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It falls under section R205(a) – exemption code C10 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.

This work permit is used when a foreign national's employment in Canada will bring significant social, cultural, or economic benefits to the country.

What Does “Significant Benefit” Mean?

To qualify under the C10 pathway, you need to prove that hiring you will bring benefits that go beyond just filling a job. Immigration officers look for:

• Unique skills or expertise
  
  
• Support from Canadian institutions or associations
  
  
• Evidence of national interest or public importance
  
  

This is not an easy work permit to get—you must clearly demonstrate how your work will have a significant positive impact on Canada.

C10 Work Permit for Doctors

Good news for international physicians: doctors can use the C10 work permit if they are bringing essential healthcare services—especially in underserved areas or during healthcare shortages.

Doctors applying under C10 must show that:

• Their medical expertise fills a critical need in a Canadian region.
  
  
• There is support from a Canadian health authority (e.g., a provincial health ministry, hospital, or clinic).
  
  
• They are licensed or eligible to be licensed by a provincial medical board (like CPSO in Ontario or CPSA in Alberta).
  
  

If you’re a doctor who wants to practice in Canada and avoid the LMIA process, this route might work—especially if you’re entering for public health reasons, research, or clinical service in shortage areas.

Eligibility Criteria for C10 Work Permit

To qualify, you must meet one or more of the following:

• Possess exceptional skills not readily available in Canada.
  
  
• Have a track record of innovation, recognized achievements, or leadership in your field.
  
  
• Be supported by Canadian employers, institutions, or professional associations.
  
  
• Contribute to economic growth, job creation, or public health improvements.
  
  

Key Documents Needed

Your C10 work permit application should include:

• A detailed explanation of how your work will benefit Canada
  
  
• Letters of support from Canadian employers or authorities
  
  
• Proof of your qualifications (e.g., education, work history, awards)
  
  
• A resume/CV
  
  
• Offer of employment or invitation to collaborate/work in Canada
  
  
• Medical license or proof of eligibility to practice (for doctors)
  
  

For doctors, including a letter from a hospital, provincial health department, or clinic explaining the need for your services is crucial.

Processing Times

C10 work permit processing times can vary, but generally take about 2–6 months, depending on:

• Country of residence
  
  
• Whether you’re applying from outside or inside Canada
  
  
• Whether biometrics and medical exams are required
  
  

Applying through the Global Skills Strategy might expedite processing if your profession is eligible.

LMIA-Exempt… But Still Requires IRCC Approval

Although the C10 work permit is LMIA-exempt, it still requires you to:

• Submit a complete application online
  
  
• Pay the employer compliance fee (if needed)
  
  
• Provide biometrics and possibly undergo a medical exam
  
  
• Wait for IRCC approval before entering or working in Canada
  
  

Why Use C10 Instead of Other Work Permits?

The C10 work permit is ideal if:

• You don’t want to go through the LMIA process
  
  
• You’re self-employed or an entrepreneur
  
  
• You have support from Canadian partners
  
  
• You want to apply for permanent residence later through Express Entry
  
  

For doctors and high-skilled professionals, this route offers flexibility and a faster entry path—especially if you're offering services in the public interest.

Example: How a Doctor Can Qualify

Dr. Maria, a family physician from Brazil, receives an invitation from a rural Ontario clinic. The clinic can't find a Canadian doctor willing to relocate. They write a letter stating Dr. Maria’s role is critical to patient care. She applies under C10 with:

• A support letter from the clinic
  
  
• Her credentials and eligibility to register with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)
  
  
• Evidence of her medical experience
  
  

Dr. Maria is approved under the C10 Significant Benefit Work Permit, bypassing the LMIA process.

Can You Extend or Transition to Permanent Residency?

Yes. Many C10 work permit holders go on to apply for permanent residence through Express Entry, especially under:

• Federal Skilled Worker Program
  
  
• Canadian Experience Class
  
  
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
  
  

Your time working in Canada under C10 can count toward Canadian work experience, helping you gain more CRS points.

Final Tips for Success

1. Gather strong support letters from Canadian institutions or employers.
   
   
2. Tailor your application to show why your role is critical to Canada’s interest.
   
   
3. Work with an immigration professional to strengthen your case.
   
   
4. For doctors, start the licensing process early with the relevant provincial medical board.
   
   

Ready to Apply or Learn More?

If you're a professional—or a doctor—interested in working in Canada under the C10 Significant Benefit Work Permit, we can help.

👉 Schedule a strategy session with us today to explore your best immigration options.

Let us help you bring your skills to Canada—with confidence and clarity.