A work permit is an official authorization allowing a foreign individual to work while in Canada. Annually, Canada grants approximately half a million work permits to temporary foreign workers worldwide.
Canada stands out as a top choice for many foreign individuals pursuing job opportunities. Working in Canada can also serve as a promising initial stage for those aspiring to immigrate to the country permanently.
Who Qualifies to Work in Canada?
Most foreign nationals need a permit to work in Canada, although there are some exemptions.
To obtain a work permit, most applicants will need a job offer from a Canadian employer backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). However, there are exceptions to this rule. For instance, recent graduates from Canadian Designated Learning Institutes (DLIs) or spouses of individuals already holding Canadian work or study permits may apply for a work permit without an LMIA or job offer.
Applicants eligible for a work permit must also meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrate plans to depart Canada upon expiry of their work authorization.
- Show they have adequate funds to support themselves and their family in Canada and upon returning home.
- Are not criminally or medically inadmissible to Canada.
- Intend to work with an eligible employer.
- Can furnish any necessary documentation proving their eligibility to enter Canada.
How to Acquire a Canadian Work Permit
The process of obtaining a Canadian work permit varies significantly based on the type of permit sought. For instance, international students studying in Canada often receive automatic authorization to work part-time as part of their study permit.
Most applications for closed work permits necessitate a foreign national to have an official job offer from a Canadian employer, supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Even those exempt from LMIA requirements or from needing a work permit must ensure they possess the necessary documentation for entry into Canada. There are generally two pathways to obtaining a Canadian work permit: a closed (restricted) work permit and an open work permit.
Closed work permits are linked to specific employers, meaning that individuals with such permits are obligated to work for the same employer at the same location unless they obtain a different work permit.
What documents are needed for a work permit?
The documents needed for a Canadian work permit application vary based on the specific type of permit being sought. Generally, applicants may be required to submit the following documents:
- Completed application forms
- Proof of current status in Canada (if applicable)
- Proof of family members’ status (if applicable)
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (if required)
- Written job offer from employer (if applicable)
- Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) (if applicable)
- Evidence of meeting job requirements
- Valid copy of passport
- Copy of educational credentials
- Results of medical examination (if requested)
- Proof of financial ability to support stay in Canada and return home
- Receipt of payment for government fees
- Recent passport-sized photographs
How long is my work permit valid for?
Canadian work permits generally have a validity period of 1 to 2 years, although there are exceptions. Typically, a work permit will not exceed the validity of the applicant’s passport or the duration specified in their Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Additionally, the permit’s duration cannot surpass the duration of the applicant’s intended stay in Canada or the length required for the job offer. The specific program under which the applicant applies may also influence the length of the work permit, potentially resulting in a shorter validity period.