Work Permits in Canada

A work permit is really important as it is an official approval that allows people from other countries to work within Canada for a fixed time period legally. Getting a work permit is the first step for those who are looking for opportunities to build a career in Canada. There are several ways to get a work permit, each of which has a different set of requirements. Work permits in Canada come under two main categories.

Employer-Specific Work Permits

These permits let you work for one specific employer in Canada. To get this type of permit, you need a valid job offer provided by a Canadian employer. It is designed for jobs that need to be filled in Canada where no suitable Canadian worker is available.

Open Work Permits

These permits are more flexible because they do not tie you to one job or employer. You are able to work for almost any employer in Canada, except for those who do not follow labour rules. Open work permits are usually given to people who are connected to Canada, like graduates from different Canadian schools, spouses of skilled workers or international students, and people waiting for a decision on their refugee application.

Types of Canadian Work Permits

• LMIA-Based Work Permit
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
• Open Work Permit under the International Mobility Program (Canadian Interest)
• Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
• Intra Company Transfer (ICT)
• International Agreements
• International Experience Canada (IEC)

What Activities are Permitted Under a Canadian Work Permit?

A work permit in Canada allows you to work legally in Canada, but you have to obey certain rules and conditions. What you are allowed to do in Canada depends on the category of permit you have and the details written on it. For example, your permit might outline the type of work that you are allowed to do, the employer you are supposed to work for, the location of your job, and the duration of your stay. These details are usually listed directly on the permit, especially for employer-specific permits.

Even if your permit does not mention specific restrictions, general rules still apply to all work permits. For example, all work permit holders are not allowed to work in businesses where there is a risk of workers being sexually exploited. Moreover, you must leave Canada when your allowed stay is over unless you apply to extend your stay or change your status.

What Documents are Necessary to Submit an Application for a Work Permit in Canada?

The documents you need for a work permit in Canada depend on the category of permit you are going to apply for. Here is a general list of what might be required:

• Completely filled out application forms
• The evidence of your legal status within Canada (if required)
• The proof of a family member’s status within Canada (if required)
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (if required)
• Updated CV or résumé
• Certificate of marriage (if applicable)
• Job offer letter (if required)
• Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) (if required for Quebec jobs)
• Documentation showing that you fulfill the job qualifications
• Payment receipts for any applicable fees
• Copies of educational certificates
• Medical exam results (if requested)
• A valid passport copy
• Evidence of financial stability to support your stay in Canada as well as return to home
• Current passport-sized photographs

How Do I Submit a Request for a Work Permit Extension?

Temporary foreign workers who qualify to extend their work permit are usually required to submit their application online. It is advised to start the extension process at least 30 days before your current permit expires to avoid any type of complication. However, you are still allowed to submit your work permit extension application till the actual expiry date of your permit, although applying earlier is strongly recommended.

Employment in Canada Without a Work Permit

Most people from other countries need to get a work permit before they can legally work in Canada. However, there are some exceptions where a work permit is not required for certain types of jobs or activities.

How CWC Can Help?

It is not very easy to get a work permit in Canada, but CWC’s expert consultants make it very easy and hassle-free. So, we help you choose the right type of permit, assist you in the application process, and make sure all of your papers are in order. Once your work permit is approved, we will support you with extensions and a lot more. With our massive experience and thousands of successful cases, we are here to make your journey to work within Canada smooth and stress-free. We also provide a FREE assessment to help you get started with your work permit efficiently