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Types of work permit in Canada

Canada; Land of Opportunities

There are several different sorts of visas available in Canada. Did you know that you may get a visa that permits you to work for any company in the country? Then there’s another kind of visa that only enables you to work for a single company or company’s employees. Learn all you need to know about types of work permit in Canada in our comprehensive guide.

A work permit is a legal document that allows a foreign individual to work in Canada while in the country. Approximately half a million work permits are issued by Canada each year to temporary foreign employees from all over the globe. Many foreign nationals seeking work possibilities flock to Canada. Working in Canada is also a great way to get a foot in the door for individuals looking to settle permanently in the country.

Types of Work Permit in Canada

Obtaining a work permit in Canada may be done in a variety of ways. Some work permits need a job offer from a Canadian company, others require the employer to present a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and still, others require a link to Canada (previous education, spousal sponsorship, etc.). To choose the work permit that best meets your credentials, please look at the categories below:

Those types of work permit in Canada require an LMIA

The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) offers Canadian firms the flexibility to temporarily recruit foreign nationals in order to cover shortfalls in Canada’s labor force. It is jointly run by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) and is funded by the federal government (ESDC).

Facilitated LMIA; Only Available in Quebec

Quebec is a one-of-a-kind province in terms of its contribution to Canadian immigration. When compared to other provinces, the federal government has provided Quebec much more autonomy in terms of immigration laws and processes, which is why Quebec’s immigration programs are often considered in a manner distinct from the other provinces’ immigration systems. This is why the province has a number of diverse policies in place when it comes to the employment of foreign employees. Quebec, in particular, facilitates the employment of foreign employees via the LMIA procedure, which is streamlined for employers.

Global Talent Stream

In June 2017, the Government of Canada announced the commencement of the Global Talent Stream (GTS), a two-year trial initiative that is the result of a collaboration between Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

In order for specific Canadian firms to compete on an international basis, the GTS aids them in recruiting highly qualified individuals from across the globe via a variety of programs and initiatives. Through the Global Skills Strategy, employers that successfully complete the program will be able to streamline the employment process for foreign nationals.

LMIA-Exempt types of work permit in Canada that require a job offer

IMP or International Mobility Program

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is not required while using the International Mobility Program (IMP). While the majority of firms that hire foreign employees will be required to get an LMIA, there are several instances in which an LMIA exemption may be granted. LMIA exemptions are granted in the following circumstances:

  • bigger economic, cultural, and other capitalistic advantages for Canada; and
  • mutual benefits enjoyed by Canadians and permanent residents

NAFTA work permit in Canada

NAFTA is a trilateral trade agreement agreed upon between Canada, the US, and Mexico in 1994. NAFTA allows US and Mexican people to work in Canada. Foreign citizens covered by NAFTA may be permitted to work in Canada without an LMIA or, in certain situations, a work permit.

CETA Work Permit in Canada

The Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Deal (CETA) is an international trade agreement. CETA allows EU people to work in Canada. Foreign people covered by CETA may be permitted to work in Canada without an LMIA or even a work permit.

Open Work Permit in Canada

Any foreign worker intending to work in Canada must be authorized. For most foreign nationals, this authorization is a legitimate work permit. There are certain exceptions to the work permit requirements. Open work permits do not need an LMIA.

Open work permits are widely sought after for their flexibility. Unlike other work permits, an open work permit enables a foreign citizen to work for any company in Canada and to move around at will. Many foreign people will increase their chances of permanent residence by working in Canada.

Closed Work Permit in Canada

Most closed work permit applications need a foreign citizen to have an official employment offer from a Canadian business. Even individuals exempt from the LMIA or who do not need a work visa should be aware of the special papers required to enter Canada. Closed work permits are connected to certain employers therefore, foreign nationals must stay with the same job and area until they alter their work permit.

2-year work permit in Canada

With few exceptions, work permits in Canada are normally good for 1-2 years. In most cases, a visa officer will not grant a Canada work permit for a period longer than the validity of the applicant’s passport or the period stated on the applicant’s Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

FAQ about Types of Work Permit in Canada

Is there any difference between a Canadian work permit and a visa?

A work permit allows foreign citizens to work in Canada, while a visa allows them to enter.

Is IELTS required for a Canadian work permit?

Neither IELTS nor other English or French language test is required to apply for a work visa in Canada.

Can I work legally in Canada without a work permit?

Almost all foreign workers in Canada need a work visa.

Last Note

Most work permits in Canada are employer-specific, often known as “closed” work permits, and are issued for a single position in Canada. As a result, a foreign worker is limited to working for the employer listed on his or her work visa. As a result, if a foreign worker finds a new job and does not yet have permanent residence status, the foreign worker must apply for and acquire a new work permit before switching companies or jobs in Canada.

It’s important to note that a Canadian Temporary Work Permit is just for foreign employees who want to work in Canada for a limited time. Foreign employees must complete the Canadian permanent residency procedure in order to work and live in Canada permanently.

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