Canada Work Permit Visa

A work permit is a legal document that allows a foreign national to work while in Canada. Every year, Canada issues around 500,000 work permits to temporary foreign employees from all over the world. Many foreigners seeking jobs choose Canada as their preferred destination. Working in Canada is also a fantastic first step for individuals looking to permanently relocate to the country.

Who is allowed to work in Canada?

With a few exceptions, most foreign nationals require a permission to work in Canada.
Most candidates will need a Canadian employment offer accompanied by a Labour Market Impact Assessment in order to apply for a work permit (LMIA). There are several exceptions to this rule, and foreign employees may apply for a work visa without an LMIA or a job offer. A recent graduate from a Canadian Designated Learning Institute (DLI) or the spouse of someone who already has a work or study visa in Canada are examples of this.

Candidates who are eligible to apply for a work permit must also fulfil the following requirements:

• • Prove they have adequate finances to maintain themselves and their families in Canada and to return home; and are not
  • criminally or medically ineligible to Canada; and
  • Make plans to work for a qualified employer; and
  • Can present any documentation necessary to confirm their right to enter Canada

Types of Work Permits in Canada

There are several ways to obtain a Canadian work permit. Some require a job offer from a Canadian employer and a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), while others do not. Work permits are categorized as follows:

Work Permits Requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA):

• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
• Facilitated LMIA (Quebec)
• Global Talent Stream
•  

LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (require a job offer or employment contract):

• International Mobility Program (IMP)NAFTA Work Permits
• CETA Work Permits
• Intra-Company Transfers
•  

Work Permits Available Without a Job Offer or LMIA:

• Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)
• International Experience Canada (IEC) – including spousal sponsorship and working holiday visas
• spousal sponsorship (working holiday visa)
• Open Work Permit (BOWP)
• Accompanying Spouse of an International Student or Worker

How to Obtain a Work Permit in Canada

The application process varies depending on the type of work permit. For example, international students studying in Canada may be eligible for part-time work under their study permit.

Most closed work permit applications require a job offer and an LMIA from a Canadian employer. Even applicants exempt from LMIA or work permits must prepare specific documents for entry into Canada. Closed work permits are employer-specific, meaning the permit holder must work for the same employer in the same position unless the permit is amended.

For expert guidance on obtaining a Canadian work permit, trust the best immigration consultants in Brampton, Ontario.

Documents Required for a Canadian Work Permit

The required documents vary depending on the permit type, but may include:

• Completed application forms
• Proof of Canadian citizenship (if applicable)
• Proof of status from a family member (if applicable)
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (if applicable)
• Written employment contract (if applicable)
• Curriculum Vitae/Resume
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) (if applicable)
• Proof of meeting employment criteria
• Valid passport copy
• Educational credentials
• Medical examination results (if requested)
• Evidence of financial ability to remain in Canada and return to your home country
• Payment of applicable government fees
• Recent passport-sized photographs

Biometrics for Work Permits in Canada

IRCC currently exempts some applicants applying for work permits from inside Canada from providing biometrics. However, applicants outside Canada must provide biometrics after receiving a biometrics instruction letter.

Police Verification for Canadian Work Permits

Visa officers may request police clearance certificates. Depending on the application location, this may be required as part of the initial application. Applicants may need to provide police certificates from every country where they have lived for six months or more after turning 18.

Medical Examination for a Work Visa in Canada

Some foreign nationals applying to work in Canada must undergo a medical exam, depending on their duration of stay, previous residence, and occupation.

If working less than six months, a medical exam is usually not required, unless the job involves close contact with people or is in certain agricultural roles.

For stays over six months, a medical exam is mandatory if you have lived or traveled in certain countries for six months or more or intend to work in certain sensitive occupations.

Medical exams must be performed by IRCC-designated panel physicians. You can find a panel physician near you on the IRCC website.

Applicants can choose to take the medical exam before applying. If results are not submitted with the application, an IRCC officer will contact you with instructions and deadlines to complete it.

For expert assistance in obtaining a Canadian work permit, look no further than the best work permit consultants in Brampton, Ontario. We provide specialized guidance tailored to your needs, ensuring a smooth and successful application process.