Work in Canada: Complete Guide

A work permit is essential to enable a foreign national to work legally in Canada. Every year, hundreds of thousands of work permits are issued, enabling temporary workers to contribute to various sectors of the country's economy.

With its dynamic economy and job opportunities, Canada attracts workers from all over the world. For some, obtaining a work permit is also a key step on the road to permanent residency.

Overview of work permits in Canada

Anyone with a valid work permit or authorized immigrant status can work in Canada. There are some exceptions, notably for permit-exempt workers in specific occupations.

• Open permit: Allows you to work for any employer without the need for a prior job offer.

• Employer-specific permit: ties the worker to a particular employer, often conditional on a LMIA (Labor Market Impact Assessment).

The process generally includes :

• Obtaining a job offer or letter of support (if required).

• Submitting an application online or at a visa office.

• Provision of the required documents, such as passport, proof of funds and, in some cases, an EIMT or medical certificate.

Not necessarily. If you are eligible for an open permit, a job offer is not required. However, for permits linked to an employer, a valid offer is mandatory.

A work permit authorizes you to work in Canada within specified limits (employer, location, duration). It does not authorize you to hold other jobs outside the conditions established for a related permit.

Yes, spouses can apply for an open work permit, and dependent children can be included for study or visit permits depending on their situation.

The standard cost is 155 CAD, with possible additional charges for biometrics, medical examinations or other formalities.

Apply for a work permit

Commonly required documents include :

• Valid passport

• Job offer or letter of approval (if applicable)

• Proof of funds to meet your needs

• Medical test results or police certificates, if applicable

The time required varies according to the country of residence and the type of application. In general, it can take from a few weeks to several months.

You can track the status of your application online via the IRCC portal using your login.

Refusals are often due to :

• Incomplete or incorrect documents

• Medical or safety inadmissibility

• A non-compliant job offer

Other frequently asked questions about working in Canada

Can I work in Canada without a permit?

In some cases, yes. Exemptions apply to certain categories, such as commercial visitors or guest artists.

Can I extend my work permit?

Oui, vous pouvez demander une prolongation si vous remplissez les conditions requises avant l’expiration de votre permis actuel.

Do I need to take the TEF?

A language test is not required for a work permit, unless the employer or a specific program requires it.

How long is a permit valid for?

It depends on the conditions of your license, but the duration generally varies between 1 and 3 years.

Are work permits age-restricted?

No, there is no age limit for applying for a work permit, but some specific requirements may apply depending on the employer or program.

Can I get health insurance in Canada with a work permit?

Some work permit holders may have access to public health insurance, depending on their province of residence.

Frequently asked questions

A work permit authorizes you to work in Canada, while a visa simply allows you to enter. A visa is required to cross the Canadian border, but it's the permit that governs your right to work once you're here.

In most cases, the TEF test is not required to obtain a work permit. However, some specific programs or employers may require proof of language proficiency, especially if you wish to move towards permanent residency.

The duration of a work permit depends on your particular situation, such as the duration of your contract or the conditions of your authorization. In general, it is valid for a period of 1 to 3 years, renewable under certain conditions.

No, the work permit does not allow you to enter Canada. You must also have a visitor's visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), depending on your nationality.

Yes, an employer can support you by requesting a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), when required. This document proves that your hiring will not penalize Canadian workers. It will then be used to strengthen your application for a work permit.

Working Process

Follow these steps to get your solution easily

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1

Contact us

Complete our assessment form, we will assess your case and contact you for an initial consultation.

Analysis of the file

We work with you to develop a personalized strategy to ensure the success of your immigration procedure.

2

3

Assistance and representation

We will carefully review your supporting documents and get to work to build a solid case.

Decision

Once the decision has been made, our team will assist you to advise you on the steps to follow for your installation in Canada.

4

Contact us

Make an appointment today