Work in Canada

Each year there are more than 100,000 work permits issued by the Canadian government to temporary foreign workers. Depending on the type of work responsibilities, duration of the position, individual’s home country and other such factors, the Canadian government offers different types of employment permits that can be obtained.

Obtaining a work permit in Canada requires that you submit an application to IRCC.  This can be a confusing process.  Contact Canadian Immigration Group online today, or by phone at (780) 444-2844 or toll-free at (855) 944-2844, to learn more.

Our experience can assist with filling out the applications, completing all necessary documentation submissions, and answer questions or concerns you may have.

LMIA Requirements for Canadian Employment

In Canada, employment opportunities are given priority to Canadian citizens and permanent residents before consideration is given to a foreign national. This is a federal requirement.

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is to ensure that employers throughout Canada are following employment standards. This assessment is performed to ensure that there are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to perform the job duties of the position before hiring a foreign worker.

Some industries that require positive Labour Market Impact Assessments before work permits are issued include:

• Carpentry trades
• Mechanics
• Heavy Equipment Operators
• Logging and Forestry
• Electrical
• Telecommunications
• Food Service
• Hospitality
• Retail
• Agriculture
• Oil and Petroleum
• Mining

Working Without a Permit

There are certain types of jobs available throughout Canada that do not require foreign workers to possess a work permit to fill the position.

Some examples are:

• Athletes
• Aviation accident or incident inspectors
• Clergy
• Emergency service providers
• Foreign government officers
• Health care students
• Military personnel
• On-campus employment

Before accepting a position that doesn’t require the issuance of a permit, we encourage you to contact Canadian Immigration Group. We will look over any employment agreements or paperwork for you, answer your questions and address your concerns so you can enjoy a feeling of confidence about your Canadian employment opportunities.

Open Work Permit Opportunities

Open Work Permits (OWP) allow individuals from other countries to fill most employment position they are qualified for without restriction.

There is no need for an LMIA or to have an employment confirmation provided to apply for an OWP. This type of permit to work in Canada is issued to individuals such as, but limited to:

• Foreign spouses/common-law partners of temporary foreign workers in skilled occupations.
• Foreign spouses/common-law partners of student studying full time (with some restrictions)
• Foreign student or their spouses/ common-law partners sponsored through Inland Spousal/Common-law Sponsorship
• Graduating international students
• International Experience Canada (IEC) candidates
• Foreign worker protection program

The Canadian government also issues a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP) for international workers currently in Canada that are waiting for permanent residence applications to be processed. This type of permit is also offered to individuals that wish to immigrate to Canada through one of the following processes:

• Federal Skilled Worker Class
• Federal Skilled Trades Class
• Canadian Experience Class
• Provincial Nominee Programs

To ensure you are on the right track, contact Canadian Immigration Group today. We specialize in all types of services to assist with Canadian employment opportunities that will be beneficial for your specific needs and situation.