If you want to move to Canada for a job, the document you usually need is a work permit rather than simply a document called a “work visa.” For many foreign workers, the process begins with a Canadian job offer, followed by steps the employer may need to complete before the worker submits a work permit application. Other people may qualify for an open work permit that is not restricted to one specific employer.
The correct route depends on your job, employer, qualifications, nationality, immigration program, and whether the position requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). A work permit also should not be confused with permanent residence: it normally provides temporary authorization to work under specified conditions.
Understand the Two Main Types of Canadian Work Permits
Canadian work permits generally fall into two broad categories: employer-specific work permits and open work permits.
An employer-specific work permit authorizes employment according to conditions stated on the permit. These can include the employer you can work for, the location of employment, and how long you are permitted to work.
An open work permit provides greater flexibility because it is generally not tied to one employer. However, open permits are available only in qualifying circumstances.
You cannot simply choose an open work permit because you prefer more flexibility. You must be eligible under a program or immigration situation that permits one.
Step 1: Determine Whether You Need a Work Permit
Most foreign nationals who want to work in Canada need authorization to do so.
However, Canadian immigration rules contain limited situations in which certain activities can be performed without an ordinary work permit.
Your first step should therefore be determining whether the work you intend to perform requires a permit and which category applies.
Do not assume that entering Canada as a visitor gives you permission to work. Visitor status and work authorization are separate.
Likewise, having a Canadian job offer does not automatically authorize you to begin working.
Step 2: Find a Canadian Employer When Required
If you are pursuing an employer-specific work permit, finding a qualifying Canadian employer is usually one of the most important steps.
The employer provides information needed for the immigration application and may have to complete additional government procedures before you apply.
Foreign job seekers should carefully evaluate employment offers.
A legitimate offer should clearly identify the employer, job, compensation, duties, and employment conditions.
Be cautious when someone promises a “guaranteed Canadian work visa” in exchange for a large payment. Immigration approval is made by Canadian authorities, not by recruiters or employers.
Step 3: Determine Whether the Employer Needs an LMIA
Some Canadian employers must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment before hiring a temporary foreign worker.
An LMIA is part of the process used to assess the effect that hiring a foreign worker could have on Canada’s labor market.
If an LMIA is required, the employer—not the foreign worker—generally applies for it.
A positive LMIA can then support the worker’s application for an employer-specific work permit.
However, not every foreign worker requires an LMIA.
Canada has several LMIA-exempt categories based on international agreements, significant benefits, reciprocal employment, and other qualifying situations.
Step 4: Understand LMIA-Exempt Employment
If the position is exempt from the LMIA requirement, that does not necessarily mean the worker can simply arrive and start working.
For many LMIA-exempt employer-specific permits, the Canadian employer still needs to complete required steps through Canada’s employer compliance system and provide the worker with information needed for the work permit application.
The worker then applies under the appropriate exemption.
This distinction is important because LMIA-exempt does not mean work-permit-exempt.
The worker may still require government approval before beginning employment.
Step 5: Gather Your Work Permit Documents
The exact documents depend on your situation.
You will generally need a valid passport or travel document and information supporting your proposed Canadian employment.
For an employer-specific application, this could include the employment offer and LMIA information when required, or information connected with an LMIA exemption.
You may also need evidence demonstrating that you are qualified for the position.
Depending on the occupation and circumstances, this might involve educational records, professional credentials, employment history, or proof of relevant experience.
Family and personal documents can also be necessary when accompanying family members are included.
Step 6: Submit the Work Permit Application
Many applicants outside Canada submit their work permit applications online.
The application asks for personal details, immigration history, proposed employment, and other relevant information.
Applicants must answer questions accurately and provide the requested supporting evidence.
Fees normally apply.
Depending on nationality and personal circumstances, an applicant may also need to provide biometrics.
Canadian immigration authorities then review whether the applicant and proposed employment satisfy the requirements of the requested work permit.
Applying does not give someone permission to begin working immediately.
Step 7: Complete Medical or Other Requirements
Some workers may need an immigration medical examination.
Whether one is required can depend on factors such as where the applicant has lived and the type of occupation they intend to perform.
Jobs involving certain health-related, childcare, or similar settings can create additional medical requirements.
Applicants may also be asked for police certificates or other documents depending on the immigration process and circumstances.
Providing incomplete information can delay a decision, so applicants should review their personalized document requirements carefully.
Step 8: Wait for a Decision
Processing times vary considerably.
Factors can include the country from which the application is submitted, type of permit, completeness of the application, biometrics, medical examinations, and whether additional review is necessary.
Applicants should therefore avoid assuming that receiving a Canadian job offer guarantees a particular arrival date.
If an application made from outside Canada is approved, the applicant generally receives documentation explaining the approval and the next steps for traveling to Canada.
The actual work permit may be issued when the person enters Canada, depending on the application process.
Step 9: Enter Canada
Work permit approval does not remove the normal border examination.
When you arrive, a Canada Border Services Agency officer can review your documents and determine whether you meet the requirements for entry.
If admitted and the applicable requirements are satisfied, the work permit is issued or confirmed according to the relevant procedure.
Before leaving the port of entry, review the permit carefully.
Check your name, employer if applicable, occupation-related conditions, expiration date, and other restrictions.
An error can create problems after you begin employment.
Can You Change Employers in Canada?
The answer depends on your permit.
If you hold an open work permit, you generally have greater freedom to change eligible employers, subject to any restrictions on the permit.
If you have an employer-specific permit, you normally cannot simply start working for an unrelated new employer under the old authorization.
The new employer may need to complete LMIA or LMIA-exempt procedures, and you may need new or updated work authorization before beginning the new job.
Can a Canadian Work Permit Lead to Permanent Residence?
A work permit is temporary, but Canadian work experience can be relevant to some permanent residence programs.
For example, certain workers may later qualify through an economic immigration program or a Provincial Nominee Program.
Eligibility can depend on occupation, work experience, language ability, education, province, and other factors.
Working in Canada therefore does not automatically result in permanent residence, but it can form part of a longer immigration strategy for some workers.
FAQs
Q1. Do I need a job offer to get a Canadian work permit?
A: Many employer-specific work permits require a Canadian employment offer. However, qualifying applicants for certain open work permits may not need a job offer.
Q2. What is an LMIA?
A: A Labour Market Impact Assessment is a process that may be required before a Canadian employer hires a temporary foreign worker. Some employment categories are exempt from the LMIA requirement.
Q3. Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?
A: Visitor status generally does not by itself authorize employment. A person normally needs appropriate work authorization unless a specific exemption applies.
Q4. Can I change jobs with a Canadian work permit?
A: It depends on the permit. Open work permits generally provide greater flexibility, while employer-specific permits restrict employment according to the conditions stated on the permit.
Q5. Does a Canadian work permit give me permanent residence?
A: No. A work permit provides temporary work authorization. Some workers may later qualify separately for permanent residence through federal or provincial immigration programs.
