Work Permit
Foreign nationals looking to work temporarily in Canada usually need a work permit.
The Two Main Programs for Work Permits:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP):
- Requires employers to secure a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to ensure hiring a foreign worker won't negatively impact the Canadian job market.
- International Mobility Program (IMP):
- Offers work permits exempt from an LMIA, simplifying the process for eligible applicants.
Canada offers two types of work permits:
1. Employer-Specific Work Permit
To apply for an employer-specific work permit, Temporary Foreign Worker will need:
- A positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from your employer OR an offer of employment.
It includes essential conditions such as:
- The name of the specific employer you're authorized to work for.
- The duration of your work.
- The location of your workplace.
2. Open Work Permit
An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada without being tied to a specific job, but it is only issued under specific scenarios.
Eligibility
To apply, whether from within or outside Canada, you must meet the following requirements:
- Demonstrate that you will leave Canada when your permit expires.
- Provide proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members.
- Follow Canadian law, avoid any criminal activity, and pose no threat to the country’s security.
- Be in good health (a medical examination may be required).
- Refrain from working for employers who are deemed ineligible.
Temporary Foreign Workers Program (TFWP) – Requires an employer-specific work permit.
To qualify:
- Job Offer – A full-time, temporary job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) – Employers must demonstrate that no Canadian workers are available for the job.
- Skills and Qualifications – Proof of necessary skills for the offered job.
- Financial Stability – Proof you can support yourself (and any accompanying family members) during your stay in Canada.
- Intent to Leave – You must prove you’ll leave Canada after your work permit expires.
- Health and Security Clearance – Medical exams and police clearance certificates may be required.
- Biometrics – Fingerprints and photo are required for most applicants.
Global Talent Stream (GTS) – Fast-Tracked Employer-Specific Work Permit
Job Offer in a High-Demand Field
The position must be in a specialized or in-demand sector, such as technology, engineering, or IT. Employers must be actively participating in the Global Talent Stream program.
Eligible Occupations
The job must align with one of the roles listed on the Global Talent Occupations List, which includes positions like software engineers, data analysts, and other tech-based roles.
Employer Obligations
Employers are required to commit to initiatives outlined in the Labour Market Benefits Plan, demonstrating a positive contribution to the Canadian labor market.
Streamlined LMIA Process:
While a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is mandatory, the GTS processes LMIAs significantly faster—often within two weeks compared to the standard processing time under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP).
Additional Requirements
Applicants must fulfill standard requirements, including providing biometrics, completing health checks, and proving they have sufficient financial resources.
International Experience Canada (IEC) – Open Work Permit
- Working Holiday Visa – Provides an open work permit, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada.
- Young Professionals – An employer-specific work permit designed to help participants gain professional experience in their field of expertise.
- International Co-op (Internship) – An employer-specific work permit for students undertaking internships or work placements directly related to their studies.
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) - Open Work Permit
To qualify for PGWP Canada:
-
Graduation from a Recognized Institution – You need to complete a full-time program of at least 8 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
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Valid Study Permit – You must hold a valid study permit at the time of graduation.
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Application Deadline – Submit your application within 180 days of receiving your final grades or completion letter.
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Eligible Programs Only – Short programs, language courses, and private career colleges do not qualify.
- Work Duration – The length of the work permit matches your program duration, up to 3 years.
Frequently Asked Questions
- A valid job offer – From a Canadian employer.
- Skills and qualifications – That fit the role.
- Compliance with Canadian immigration and employer legal requirements – Like obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) if required.
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