Work Permit Process

Canada is one of the best places for individuals with high skills and expertise and who want to grow their careers. With its strong economy and friendly immigration policies, it is known for the top choice for many people who are willing to move abroad. Getting a work permit is usually the first step if you want to work in Canada. Here is a guide to help you apply for a Canadian work permit.

Steps to Obtain a Canadian Work Permit

The following are the comprehensive steps to obtain a work permit in Canada.

Step 1: Employers May Submit a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Application, If Required

What is an LMIA?

Before hiring a foreign worker, most Canadian employers must obtain an LMIA. An LMIA is a document issued by ESDC to verify that hiring international workers will not negatively affect Canadian labour. Employers need to show that they effectively tried to hire a Canadian or a permanent resident but were unable to find the most suitable candidate for the job. An LMIA ensures that the job offered to foreign workers is legitimate and that wages and working conditions meet Canadian standards.

In What Situations Is an LMIA Not Necessary?

In some cases, international workers can get work permits without needing an LMIA. These permits are called LMIA-exempt work permits. These are granted under specific conditions, like:

International Agreements: Such as CETA, NAFTA, and CPTPP, which allow work permits under trade agreements.

Canadian Interests:

• When the work benefits Canada economically, socially, or culturally.
• When there are reciprocal agreements, like youth or teacher exchange programs.
• For international students in Canada who need to complete co-op placements as part of their studies.
• For spouses or partners in a common-law relationship of certain work or study permit holders in Canada.
• For individuals who are doing religious or charity work.

Other Circumstances:

• Refugee claimants in Canada need to support themselves.
• Certain applicants for permanent residence.
• Migrant workers with employer-specific permits face abuse or risk of abuse, along with their dependents.

Step 2: Employer Extends a Temporary Job Offer

When the LMIA returns favorable or neutral results, the Canadian employer is required to provide the foreign worker with the LMIA approval letter and a comprehensive job offer. These documents are essential for a foreign worker to submit their work permit application in Canada.

Step 3: Foreign Worker Applies for a Work Permit

Using the LMIA confirmation letter, job offer, and the CAQ (if required), the international worker can simply apply for a work permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If the worker is from a country that requires a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for entry into Canada, they must apply for their work permit at a Canadian visa office outside Canada.

Step 4: Issuance of Work Permit

If the application gets approved, the foreign worker will receive a letter of introduction to enter Canada, but in some cases, a visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) is received to get into Canada. The actual work permit is issued when you arrive at a Canadian port of entry, where an immigration officer will verify the worker’s documentation and job details.

A work permit specifies conditions such as the employer’s name, job location, and the duration of employment. It is essential for workers to follow these conditions to maintain their status in Canada. If a worker wants to change jobs or extend their stay in Canada, they need to apply for a new work permit or renew their current one well before it expires.

How CWC Can Help?

CWC is here to make your Canadian work permit process easier. Our team knows exactly what needs to be done and will guide you through every step, from the LMIA application to getting your job offer and work permit. We also provide a FREE assessment to help you get started. With CWC, you will have expert support to make the process smooth and successful.