WORK PERMITS
Work Permit (Employer Specific)
There are a variety of programs that allow Canadian employers to hire foreign nationals to work in Canada. The requirements vary per position and program applying to.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
If you have legally studied in Canada on a full-time basis for a minimum of eight months you may be eligible to apply for a Post Graduate Work Permit that will allow you to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
The Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit allows employees of multinational companies to work in Canada temporarily. This work permit is designed for individuals who are transferring from an overseas branch, parent company, or affiliate to a Canadian office. To qualify, the employee must hold a managerial, executive, or specialized knowledge position and have been employed with the company for at least one year. The Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit is an excellent option for businesses expanding into Canada, enabling them to bring key personnel to help establish or manage operations.
Bridging Open Work Permit
In most cases if you have submitted an application for Canadian permanent residency and your current work permit is due to expire you can apply for a work permit to allow you to continue working until a decision is made on your permanent residency application.
International Mobility Program (IMP)
International Mobility Program (IMP) refers to programs that allow foreign nationals to work in Canada without the need for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). These programs are designed to support the transfer of skilled workers, executives, and professionals to Canada for various purposes, such as expanding business operations, fulfilling trade agreements, or enhancing international collaborations. International Mobility provides employers with the flexibility to hire foreign workers and enables individuals to gain work experience or contribute to the Canadian economy.
Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)
The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) allows employers in Canada to hire foreign workers for temporary agricultural jobs that cannot be filled by Canadians. The program is specifically designed for workers from certain countries, including Mexico and several Caribbean nations, to work in Canada on a seasonal basis. Workers are employed in the agricultural sector for roles such as planting, harvesting, and other seasonal tasks. The program helps address labour shortages in Canada’s agricultural industry while ensuring workers are provided with fair wages and working conditions. It is an important program for both Canadian employers and foreign workers looking to gain temporary work experience in Canada.
Caregiver Work Permit
The Caregiver Work Permit allows foreign nationals to work in Canada as caregivers, providing support to individuals who require assistance due to age, illness, or disability. This work permit is available for those employed in positions such as childcare, eldercare, or those requiring specialized medical support. There are different pathways under this program, including the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and the Home Support Worker Pilot. Caregivers are eligible to apply for permanent residency after meeting certain work experience and language requirements. The program helps Canadian families access much-needed care while offering foreign caregivers the opportunity to live and work in Canada.
Global Talent Stream (GTS) Work Permit
The Global Talent Stream Work Permit is part of Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker Program, designed to help Canadian employers access highly skilled talent from abroad in occupations where there are shortages. This stream specifically targets workers in high-demand fields, such as technology, engineering, and other specialized professions. The program aims to support innovation and growth by allowing companies to quickly hire foreign workers for roles that are critical to their operations. The Global Talent Stream offers faster processing times and streamlined requirements for employers, making it an attractive option for both businesses and skilled workers looking to work in Canada.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
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To apply for a work permit, you must submit an application to the Canadian immigration authorities. This can be done online or at a visa application center (VAC) depending on your location. You'll need to provide supporting documents, such as a job offer, proof of qualifications, and medical or police clearances, if applicable.
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Processing times vary depending on factors such as the type of work permit, the applicant's country of origin, and the volume of applications being processed. On average, it can take several weeks to a few months.
You can check current processing times on the official immigration website at https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/application-processing-times.html.
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Yes, in many cases, you can extend your work permit if you continue to meet the eligibility requirements. It’s important to apply for an extension before your current permit expires to avoid issues with your status in Canada.
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If your work permit is employer-specific, you generally need to apply for a new work permit upon switching employers. This ensures you remain compliant with Canadian immigration regulations.
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An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with no restrictions on the job or location. On the other hand, an employer-specific work permit is tied to a specific job and employer. You cannot switch employers or job types without applying for a new permit.
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In most cases, you can bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with you to Canada while working. They may be eligible for a work permit, study permit, or visitor visa, depending on their situation.
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Yes, working in Canada on a valid work permit may provide you with pathways to apply for permanent residency, especially through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). It’s important to meet the specific eligibility requirements of these programs.
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If you apply for an extension before your current work permit expires, you may be allowed to continue working under implied/maintained status until a decision is made on your extension application. It's important to ensure you apply well in advance.
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An LMIA is a document that an employer in Canada may need to obtain before hiring a foreign worker. It shows that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job and that no Canadians or permanent residents are available for the position. An LMIA is required for most employer-specific work permits.
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It’s generally not recommended to leave Canada while your work permit application is being processed, as this may affect your application status. If you must travel, consult with immigration authorities to understand how it might impact your application.
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If your work permit application is refused, you’ll receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal. You may be able to reapply or appeal the decision depending on the circumstances. It's important to address any issues outlined in the refusal letter before submitting a new application.