It is possible for a visitor to Canada to obtain a work permit if they have a job offer from a Canadian employer. The process for obtaining a work permit in Canada is generally straightforward, although there are some requirements that must be met.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that any foreign national who receives a job offer while in Canada will be able to apply for, and receive, a work permit.
This is an extension of the COVID-19-era temporary public policy that was set to expire today.
Here are the general steps to obtain a work permit in Canada as a visitor:
Obtain a job offer from a Canadian employer:
The first step in obtaining a work permit is to secure a job offer from a Canadian employer. The employer must then obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA-exempt offer of employment.
Apply for a work permit:
Once the employer has obtained the LMIA or LMIA-exempt offer of employment, the employee can apply for a work permit. The application can be made either online or on paper. The application will require the employee to submit various documents, including the job offer letter, a copy of their passport, and evidence that they meet the requirements of the job.
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The documents required for obtaining a work permit in Canada as a visitor
These will vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. However, in general, the following documents will be required:
- Valid passport: You must have a valid passport to apply for a work permit in Canada.
- Job offer letter: You will need a job offer letter from a Canadian employer. The job offer letter should include information such as the job title, job description, salary, and duration of the employment.
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or LMIA-exempt offer of employment: If the job offer is not LMIA-exempt, the employer will need to obtain an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada. The LMIA is a document that confirms that there are no Canadian workers available to fill the job. If the job offer is LMIA-exempt, the employer will need to provide a copy of the LMIA-exemption letter.
- Work permit application form: You will need to complete the work permit application form, which is available online or in paper format.
- Application fee: You will need to pay the application fee when you submit your application.
- Biometrics: Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) as part of your application.
- Other supporting documents: You may need to provide additional documents such as educational qualifications, language proficiency test results, and police certificates.
Undergo a medical examination:
Depending on the nature of the job, the employee may be required to undergo a medical examination to confirm that they do not have any medical conditions that could endanger public health.
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Wait for the work permit to be approved:
Processing times for work permit applications can vary depending on the circumstances. However, in general, most work permit applications are processed within a few weeks.
Arrive in Canada and obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN):
Once the work permit has been approved, the employee can travel to Canada to begin working. They will need to obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to be able to work in Canada legally.
It’s important to note that the process for obtaining a work permit in Canada can be complicated, and there are some eligibility requirements that must be met. It’s advisable to consult with a legal professional or immigration specialist for guidance on the process.