Employement Visa

A Canadian Employment Visa, known as a Work Permit, allows foreign nationals to work in Canada for a specified employer and period. It is a temporary visa that is essential for those who have received a job offer from a Canadian employer.

Types of Work Permits

Employer-Specific Work Permit:
- Allows you to work according to the conditions on your work permit, which include the employer you can work for, the job location, and the duration of your work.
Open Work Permit:
- Allows you to work for any employer in Canada (with some exceptions). It is often granted to:
  - Spouses or common-law partners of international students and skilled workers.
  - International graduates from Canadian institutions under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP).
  - Individuals under special programs such as the International Experience Canada (IEC).

Eligibility Criteria

Job Offer: For employer-specific permits, you need a valid job offer from a Canadian employer supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) unless exempt.
Proof of Funds: You must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay in Canada.
Good Health: You may need to complete a medical examination.
No Criminal Record: You must have no criminal record and may be required to provide a police certificate.
Intention to Leave Canada: You must convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your work permit.

Application Process

Obtain a Job Offer and LMIA (if applicable):
- Your employer must provide you with a job offer and, if necessary, obtain a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
Gather Required Documents:
- Passport
- Proof of job offer and LMIA (if applicable)
- Proof of funds
- Passport-sized photographs
- Police certificates
- Medical examination (if required)
Submit the Application:
- You can apply online or on paper. Online applications are generally processed faster.
Pay Application Fees:
- The application fee is CAD 155. Additional fees may apply for biometrics (CAD 85) or open work permits (CAD 100).
Provide Biometrics:
- You may be required to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Wait for Processing:
- Processing times vary depending on your country of residence and the type of work permit. You can check current processing times on the IRCC website.
Receive the Work Permit:
- If your application is approved, you will receive a port of entry (POE) letter of introduction, and your work permit will be issued when you arrive in Canada.

Benefits of a Work Permit

Gain Canadian Work Experience: Valuable for those planning to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) later.
Pathway to Permanent Residency: Certain work permits, like those under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), can be a stepping stone to PR.
Live and Work in Canada: You can live in Canada for the duration of your work permit and bring your family with you.