At Herrity Law LLP, we simplify the complex process of obtaining a work permit in Canada, ensuring that you have the best chance of success. Reach out to our team today to get started on your path to working in Canada!
Canada’s Temporary Work Permits
For many foreign nationals seeking international career opportunities, Canada stands out as an ideal destination due to its strong economy, emphasis on workplace safety, competitive wages, and abundant opportunities for career growth. Moreover, working in Canada can serve as a stepping stone toward obtaining permanent residency.
However, working in Canada without proper authorization can lead to serious consequences, particularly when applying for permanent residency in the future. Herrity Law LLP is here to ensure you navigate this process correctly and avoid such pitfalls.
Finding Employment in Canada
Securing a job in Canada is a key step toward obtaining a Canadian work permit. Various resources are available to help foreign workers connect with Canadian employers. However, applicants must prepare their resumes and adjust their online presence, including social media profiles, to meet Canadian standards before sending applications.
For certain jobs, applicants need to identify their National Occupation Classification (NOC) Code, which classifies employment types according to Canadian standards. Understanding your NOC code is crucial when applying for work permits or permanent residence.
Benefits of Working in Canada
Canadian labour laws provide numerous benefits for foreign workers. These include:
- Workplace Safety: Employers are legally required to maintain a high level of safety for workers.
- Equal Pay: Canadian employers must pay foreign workers wages equal to their Canadian counterparts.
- Family Inclusion: Some work permits allow foreign workers to bring their spouses and dependent children to Canada.
- Pathway to Permanent Residence: Gaining Canadian work experience increases a foreign worker’s chances of obtaining permanent residency. Work experience in Canada is highly valued under several immigration programs, including:
- Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Quebec Immigration Programs
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
Types of Canadian Work Permits
Canada offers different types of work permits, some of which require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), while others are exempt. The work permit type you apply for depends on your employment situation and any existing connections to Canada, such as prior education or a spouse already in the country. Below is an overview of the different types of work permits:
- Work Permits Requiring an LMIA
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
- LMIA Work Permits (Employer-specific)
- Facilitated LMIA for Work in Quebec
- Global Talent Stream
- LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (Requiring a Job Offer or Employment Contract)
- International Mobility Program (IMP)
- NAFTA Work Permits
- CETA Work Permits
- Intra-Company Transfers
- Open Work Permits (Requiring Neither a Job Offer Nor an LMIA)
- Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP)
- Spousal Sponsorship (Inside Canada)
- International Experience Canada (IEC)
- Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP)
- Spouses of International Students
Obtaining a Canada Work Permit
The process for obtaining a work permit in Canada varies based on the type of permit you are applying for. For example, international students are automatically granted permission to work part-time while studying. Most closed work permits, however, require foreign workers to secure an official job offer from a Canadian employer and a positive LMIA.
Foreign workers need to be aware of the unique documentation required, even in cases where an LMIA or work permit is not necessary. Herrity Law LLP assists with gathering and preparing all necessary documents to ensure a smooth transition.
There are two general pathways to obtaining a work permit in Canada:
- Closed Work Permit: This allows a foreign worker to work only for a specific employer at a designated location. Any changes to employment require a new work permit.
- Open Work Permit: This allows more flexibility, enabling the worker to change employers without needing a new permit.
