Work Visa

Q: What is the Processing Time for a Canadian Work Permit Application?

Processing times for a Canadian work permit can vary depending on the location of the application and the type of work permit. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

Q: If my Canada Work Permit Application is Denied, Can I Apply Again?

You can apply again if your Canadian work permit application is denied. Make sure to address the reasons for the refusal in your new application.

Canada is a land of opportunities, and working there can be a rewarding experience. Whether seeking a short-term employment opportunity or planning to build a long-term career, understanding how to obtain a Canadian work permit is essential. In this guide, we'll explore the various work visa types, how to apply, and what you need to know about the programs that can aid your employment journey in Canada.

Understanding the Basics of the Canadian Work Permit

A Canadian work permit allows non-Canadian citizens to work in Canada. It is issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and is often employer-specific, meaning it allows you to work for a specific employer.

Key Programs for the Canada Work Permit

Several programs and agreements can assist you in obtaining a work permit in Canada. Some of the key ones include:

Open Work Permit Canada

An open work permit provides the flexibility to work for any employer in Canada, excluding those companies that have failed to comply with certain conditions and those offering erotic dance, escort services, striptease, or erotic massages. Some pathways to an open work permit include:

Canada Spousal Open Work Permit: A unique category within open work permits is the Canada Spousal Open Work Permit. It allows the spouses or common-law partners of temporary foreign workers or international students to work in Canada
Bridging Open Work Permit: This is intended for individuals already in Canada and who have applied for permanent residence. This permit allows them to keep working while they await the results of their application.
International Mobility Program Permits: The International Mobility Program (IMP) allows employers to hire foreign workers without needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Under IMP, certain individuals can work in Canada due to the reciprocal benefits Canada gains through various international trade agreements.

Employer-Specific Work Permit

As the name suggests, the Employer Specific Work Permit or Closed Work Permit allows foreign nationals to work for a specific employer in Canada. The employer's name, location, and length of employment are mentioned on the permit.

Special Work Permits

There are special work permits for individuals who come to Canada under certain international agreements or due to the significant economic, social, or cultural benefits they bring to Canada. Some of these include:

Working Holiday Visa Canada under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.
Work permits under CUSMA (Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement), CETA (Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement), and CPTPP (Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership).
Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) for international students who have completed a program of study at a designated learning institution in Canada.

Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program

The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) allows the hiring of temporary foreign workers when there are shortages of Canadians or permanent residents to work on farms.

Applying for a Canadian Work Permit

The application process may vary depending on the type of work permit you're applying for. Here are the steps to apply for a Canadian work permit:

Determine if you need to apply for a work permit. You may not need one if you fall under certain categories like business visitors, foreign representatives, military personnel, or foreign students.
If you need a work permit, find out if you need to apply online or on paper.
Obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from your prospective employer if applicable.
Gather all the necessary documents, including identification documents, proof of employment in Canada, and proof of meeting job requirements.
Fill out the application form and prepare the fee payment.
Submit your application and wait for processing.

Studying and Working in Canada

If you're a student planning to study in Canada, you can also work in Canada under certain conditions. You may be eligible to work on or off campus without an additional work permit if you meet specific criteria.

Obtaining a Canada work permit can open up opportunities. Whether seeking short-term employment or planning a long-term career, the first step is understanding the process and requirements. With the right information and preparation, your dream of working in Canada can become a reality.

FAQs

What is the Processing Time for a Canadian Work Permit Application?

Processing times for a Canada work permit can vary depending on the location of the application and the type of work permit. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months.

Can I Bring my Family on a Canadian Work Permit?

Yes, you can bring your spouse or common-law partner, and dependent children with you to Canada if they also have valid status documents.

If my Canadian Work Permit Application is Denied, Can I Apply Again?

You can apply again if your work permit application is denied. Make sure to address the reasons for the refusal in your new application.

Top FAQ's

How do I apply for a Canadian Visa?

The first step to find out which programs you qualify for. The next step is to make sure that you have all the necessary supporting documentation then complete and submit your visa application. The best way is to apply online as sending an application by courier or mail could be costly and take a very long time.

How much is Canada’s visa fees?

This depends on the visa as well as how many dependents you will bring with you to Canada. If you use a representative or consultant you may have to pay additional fees.

Where can I get biometrics for a Canadian Visa?

You can get your biometrics done at any visa application centre in your country. You’ll need to make an appointment and make sure that you check the guidelines, specifically regarding your photo identification, such as letting temporary injuries heal, not wearing light colors or head gear, for example.

What are the requirements for a Canada visa?

Each Candian visa and immigration program has its own set of requirements for eligibility as well as a successful visa application, however you will need to be considered admissible to Canada.

How much money do you need to immigrate to Canada?

This depends on your chosen visa program, how many dependents are accompanying you to Canada, (as this dictates how much funds you will need to have) as well as whether or not you decide to use representation to apply for your visa. You will also need to take into consideration the affordability of the province or territory you choose to live in.

What is the easiest way to immigrate to Canada?

There is no real easy way to immigrate to Canada but some programs are easier than others. The Express Entry system is probably the easiest and most popular way to move to Canada but there are quicker and easier ways such as the BC PNP which has visa processing times of 2-3 months. Saskatchewan’s International Skilled Worker Stream is also relatively easier to apply to because it doesn’t require local work experience or a job offer in Canada.

What is the maximum age to immigrate to Canada?

There is no age limit when it comes to Canadian immigration but the older you are when you apply the less PR points you will get. This basically means that your chances of getting a visa are lower when you’re older. The optimal age range to move to Canada is between 20 and 29 years old. Once you are 45 years old you cannot claim any PR points.

Can I move to Canada without a job?

Yes. There are various programs including some of those under the Express Entry System, that don’t need a job offer in Canada to qualify for, such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program.

How much PR points are needed to immigrate to Canada?

The number of permanent residency (PR) points you need will depend on the Express Entry draw CRS cut-off score. This is because every 2 weeks cut-off scores are allocated based on the average score of the applicants currently in the draw. Therefore if other applicants in your draw pool have very low scores you may only need about 400 CRS points to get an invitation to apply for permanent residency. A good score would be to have between 450 and 550 CRS points in a normal draw and at least 750 and up for a provincial nomination draw.

How difficult is it to immigrate to Canada?

This depends on your individual situation and needs. Candian immigration can become very complicated and there is often a lot that many don’t know, that only trained professionals are aware of. Using an immigration professional may cost more financially, but will save you in time and possibly money should your visa get rejected or delayed for any reason.