Working in Canada
Types of Work Permits
- Canada offers several types of work permits to foreign nationals who wish to work in the country. Here are some of the common types of work permits in Canada:
- Temporary Work Permit: This is the most common type of work permit for foreign workers in Canada. It allows individuals to work in Canada for a specific job and employer for a limited period of time. Temporary work permits are usually tied to a specific job offer and require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in most cases.
- LMIA-Exempt Work Permit: Certain categories of work permits do not require an LMIA. These include permits issued under international agreements (such as NAFTA or GATS), permits for intra-company transferees, permits under significant benefit categories, and more. These permits are exempt from the usual LMIA process.
- International Experience Canada (IEC) Work Permit: The IEC program is designed for young individuals (usually between 18 and 35 years old) from certain countries to work and travel in Canada for up to two years. The program includes categories like Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): International students who have completed a program of study at a designated Canadian educational institution may be eligible for a PGWP. This permit allows them to work in Canada for a duration equal to the length of their study program, up to a maximum of three years.
- Open Work Permit: An open work permit allows individuals to work for any employer in Canada without the need for a job offer or LMIA. Open work permits are typically issued under specific circumstances, such as for spouses or common-law partners of certain work or study permit holders.
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) Permit: The SAWP permits foreign agricultural workers to work in Canada for a limited period of time to meet the seasonal labor demands of the agricultural sector. This program is facilitated through agreements between the Canadian government and participating countries.
These are just a few examples of work permits available in Canada. The specific requirements and eligibility criteria for each type of work permit may vary, so it’s important to consult the official website of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) or seek advice from our qualified immigration professional for the most up-to-date and accurate information.