Do you have a dream of working in Canada? Canada work permit is your pass to the legally permitted work in this beautiful country. You may be an experienced professional, a student or somebody who has been offered a job opportunity, but knowing the process of applying to the Canada work permit can make the process much easier. In this detailed guide, we will be defining all that you need to know in easily comprehensible language. We will discuss permit types, eligibility, application, and so forth. At the end, you would be sure about applying to your Canada work permit.
Canada has a good reputation of a good economy, good living standards as well as being hospitable to immigrants. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) indicate that every year thousands of individuals seek work permits to enter the workforce. In this article, you will find a lot of information updated to guide you through the system. Let’s dive in!
What is a Canada Work Permit?
Canada work permit is a legal document that enables foreigners to legally work in Canada within a given time. It is not similar to the case of visa, where you can get into the country. Imagine that the Canadian government is giving you the right to take up employment in the country.
Majority of the population requires a work permit in case they wish to temporarily work in Canada. Nevertheless, there are exemptions in terms of which some occupations are not exempt, such as temporary business travelers or intra-company transfers. Whether you are dissolving the Canadian economy without unfairly stealing the jobs of locals, the permit is there to guarantee it.
What is the importance of Canada work permit? It safeguards the employees as well as the employers. The employees receive legal protections, such as decent salaries and healthy working environments, whereas the employers are guided by the government regulations. In case you have already decided to move to work permanently, a work permit can also result in permanent residency with such programs as the Canadian Experience Class.
Simply stated, lack of a valid Canada work permit might result in the imposition of fines, deportation, or a disallowance of re-entry into Canada. It is, therefore, important to have a good grasp of this early on.
Types of Canada Work Permits
There are various work permits in Canada which are applicable in different circumstances. This depends on your job opportunity, skill and situation, so as to decide the right one. The following are the key categories.
Open Work Permit in Canada
Open work permit also allows you to work in any company in Canada, except the companies that government designates as ineligible. It is not rigid and does not keep you bound to a particular job or place. Who can apply? The spouses of the skilled workers or international students, say, frequently do.
This kind is fantastic when you do not know your job yet and would like to have some freedom to change your employer. IRCC states that you may be required to demonstrate that you have sufficient finances to sustain yourself. Get information regarding eligibility on the open work permit official page.
Permit to Work: Employer-Specific.
This is a work permit most widespread in Canada. It binds you down to a certain employer, to a job, to a place, to a time. You will require an employment opportunity in one of the Canadian firms, and in many cases a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) which demonstrates that employing you will not disadvantage the Canadian employees.
When you have passed through LMIA procedure through Employment and social development Canada (ESDC), you are on track. This permit best suits skilled trade, tech or seasonal jobs.
Canada Work Permits of other types.
- Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit: To those employees who are transferring within the same multinational organization to a branch in Canada. No LMIA needed.
- Post-Graduation work permit (PGWP): International students who attended a Canadian school. It takes a maximum of three years and is a prelude to permanent residence. Check information within the PGWP page.
- Bridging Open Work Permit: This type of permit is used when you are awaiting approval of your permanent residency and your existing permit is running out.
All the types have advantages and disadvantages. As an example, an open one will be more free, and an employer-specific one may result in increased job security.
Work Permit Eligibility Requirement.
Canada work permit does not apply to everyone. The government verifies whether you are a good fit. Basic requirements include:
- An authentic employment opportunity (in terms of employer-related permits).
- Evidence that you are going to depart Canada upon expirement of your permit such as connections with your home country (family, property).
- Sufficient finances to accommodate yourself and other family members.
- None criminal background – you may be required to provide a certificate of police.
- Good health – a health check might be necessary.
- No plans to work with an ineligible employer (E.g. strip tease or escort services).
It is not a rigid rule but you have to be at least 18 years of age when taking most jobs. Proficiency and learning are important. In the case of high-skilled jobs, qualifications that are equal to the National Occupational Classification (NOC) system may be required.
In the event that you are a visa-exempt nation, you are allowed to apply at the ports of entry. Otherwise, online or at a visa office. Dependents and spouses may have the opportunity of joining you – find out about family on the family sponsorship with IRCC.
By fulfilling these needs, you stand a better chance. Never forget to verify with newspapers so as not to be rejected.
Work Permit Application.
It is easy to apply to a Canada work permit because you are supposed to take the steps. Majority of them are applied online using the IRCC portal.
Process of application Step-by-Step.
- Check Your eligibility: Use the Come to Canada tool to choose whether you are eligible or not.
- Carton Documents: We shall discuss this later.
- Get a Job Offer and LMIA (where necessary): Your employer seeks LMIA with ESDC.
- Application: Open an IRCC online portal account. Fill out forms like IMM 1295.
- Pay Fees: There are Pay fees and Biometrics processing fees.
- Attend Biometrics Appointment: In case of a requirement, get finger prints and photo made at a specific center.
- Waiting of Decision: Monitor your application on the internet.
The applications may be made either internally or externally in Canada. You may also apply to a work permit without moving out of Canada in case you already are in Canada on a study permit.
How to Make Your Application Successful.
Be honest in your forms. Delays or denials may be as a result of any errors. In case English or French is not your native language, seek assistance in the translation of documents.
Documents for Work Permit.
Being able to have the right documents is important. Here’s a list of essentials:
- Legal travel document or passport.
- Offer letter of your Canadian employer.
- LMIA confirmation (where necessary).
- Evidence of qualification such as diplomas or certificates.
- In case of bringing a spouse, marriage certificate.
- Medical examination by a qualified physician – get one through the panel physicians list of IRCC.
- Clearance certificate by police.
- Photos that are of IRCC specifications.
- Evidence of finances, e.g. bank statements.
In the case of open permits, you may require more documents such as an enrollment letter of a student. Never post up blurred copies so as to avoid inconveniences.
Canada Work Permit Processing Time and Fees.
How long does it take? Different countries and types of processing take different times. On average, it’s 1-9 months. Confirm the current times on the processing times tool of IRCC.
Fees include:
- Validity of work permit: CAD $155.
- Fees on open work permit holder: CAD $100.
- Biometrics: CAD $85 -person or CAD 170-family.
The expedited processing is not always on demand, but the urgent cases (such as humanitarian reasons) may be allowed. These costs should be budgeted and planned.
Canada Work Permit Extension/Renewal.
In case your occupation is still going on, you can submit your application to renew your permit. At least do this 30 days before it runs out. This works like the first application with form IMM 5710.
In the case of renewals, send new documents such as new job offer. Such experience can assist with permanent residency applications with Express Entry in case you have acquired the Canadian work experience.
It is important to remember that failure to renew an overstay may result in an expulsion out of Canada.
How to avoid the common mistakes during the process of applying to Canada work permit.
There is a lot of rejection of applications because of mere errors. Avoid these:
- Forms and documents that are not filled out.
- Failing to demonstrate that you will go back to Canada once your permit is over.
- Delayed application or application at the inappropriate location.
- Ignoring LMIA requirements.
- Frauding – this may put you away years.
Prove everything twice and take into account the help of an immigration consultant registered with College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.
Advantages of Canada Work Permit.
There is more than a paycheck in working in Canada. You will have good pay, a universal healthcare facility (after a waiting period), and a non-hostile environment. It is being used by many as a route to citizenship.
With a varied culture, you will find it easy to fit in Canada. In addition, such programs as the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) can expedite permanent status among the workers in demand.
Economically, the industries such as technos, healthcare and constructions are thriving. Work permit allows you to develop skills and relationships to achieve success in the long term.
Working and Living in Canada with Work Permit.
Once approved, what next? You will have to learn taxes, social insurance numbers (take one at Service Canada), and provincial legislation.
Province varies when it comes to housing, banking and transportation. Toronto and Vancouver are the more popular cities; however, smaller towns are cheaper. Assimilate by educating yourself about the Canadian traditions – courtesy and timekeeping crypts a lot.
In case of bringing family, make sure that they are with the right permits as well. In most instances, kids are able to attend school at no cost.
Difficulties and Remedies to the Canada Work Permit Holders.
Some of the typical problems are culture shock, housing, or change of job. Solutions? Get involved in expat communities or refer to Settlement.org on behalf of newcomers.
In some instances, you can reapply with corrections or appeal in case of a deny of your permit. Always be optimistic – most people make it second time around.
Possible Future after a Canada Work Permit.
A work permit is not permanent but it can result in something more. Gain experience and obtain a permanent residency through Express Entry or PNP. Others can become citizens after three years being a permanent resident.
Increase your score using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) tool to track your progress.
Canada Work Permit: Frequently Asked questions.
Is it possible to apply to work without an employment proposal?
Yes, with open permits assuming that you are qualified (e.g. as a spouse).
Canada work permit: What is the maximum duration of the work permit?
You are used to working 6 months up to 4 years, depending on your job.
Am I required to have IELTS to carry out a work permit?
Language tests assist not always, but in the case of skilled jobs or Express Entry.
To get additional frequently asked questions, refer to the help center of IRCC.
Summary: Begin Your Canada Adventure.
The acquisition of a Canada work permit is a gateway to the wonderful possibilities. Canada is an excellent destination to employees all over the world, with its good employment market and prospects of permanency. Always remember to utilize the official materials, plan and be patient.
When you are ready, visit the IRCC site so that you can start your application. You are on your way to great things in Canada!
READ MORE: Spousal Sponsorship Canada: Complete Guide to Sponsoring Your Spouse or Partner
