What is a work Permit?
Work permit is a document issued by the Canadian Government which permits a foreign individual to work at a job under an employer. Any individual who is not a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident of Canada require a valid Work Permit to work in Canada.
Foreign nationals who wish to work temporarily in Canada are part of the Worker Class of Temporary Residents and are generally requires to have a genuine job offer to obtain a work permit unless exempted.
Criteria for a Work Permit
In order to obtain a Work Permit, the foreign worker must show the following requirement:
-
A genuine offer to work in Canada from a Canadian employer
-
Approval of the employment offer by HRSDC/SC\
-
Compliance with the requirements of the job in Canada such as education, training, and experience
Generally a temporary foreign worker must show he/she has access to sufficient funds to cover his/her living expenses. Exceptions include refuge claimants subject to an unenforceable removal order, students who have become temporarily destitute and temporary resident permit holders as long as their permits are valid for at least 6 months
However a work permit does not guarantee admission to Canada, the foreign worker must meet the requirements for issuance of the work permit at the time the visa is issued and must continue to meet these requirements at the time of arrival at the port of entry.
What documentation do I need to provide for a work permit?
-
An application for Work Permit made out Canada (IMM 1295)
-
A Schedule 1—Application for Temporary Resident visa
-
A genuine job offer and or job contract from the prospective employer
-
A copy of positive LMIA
-
Background documents showing qualifications and experience as evidence that the applicant meets the requirements for the job
The general rule is that the foreign worker must apply for the work permit outside of Canada however there are situations where a work permit can be obtained from within Canada or at the port of entry. The following persons must apply outside Canada for a work permit:
-
Persons requiring a TRV
-
Seasonal agricultural workers
-
Live in caregivers
-
All persons who require a medical examination
-
International exchange program participants other than US citizens.
All nationals and residents of USA can apply at the port of entry. Person whose work doesn’t require a LMIA don’t have to apply outside of Canada.
Who can apply from within Canada?
-
Holders of valid work or study permit
-
Members of a crew
-
Religious members positive LMIA
-
Students applying for postgraduate work permits
-
Holders of TRP
-
Refugee claimants
-
Mexican citizens admitted to Canada as temporary residents
-
US citizens admitted as visitors
-
Persons whose work permits were authorized by a visa office abroad
If you are looking to apply for a work permit, then we can help you with the application. Contact us for further information.