A work visa for Canada is a legal document that allows a foreign individual to work while in Canada. Every year, Canada awards approximately 500,000 work visas to temporary foreign employees from all over the world. Canada is a prime destination for many foreign nationals seeking employment opportunities and a Canadian work visa.
Download Free Immigration and PR Guide PDF
How to Obtain a Work Visa for Canada?
The procedure for obtaining a work visa for Canada varies considerably based on the type of work permit sought. For example, an overseas student studying in Canada will frequently be granted permission to work part-time as part of their study permit authorization.
Most closed work permit applications require a foreign national to have a formal job offer from a Canadian business accompanied by a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Even individuals who are LMIA-exempt or do not require a work permit should be aware of the specific papers required to ensure entry into Canada.
Here are the general requirements for a Canadian Work Visa:
- Job Offer from a Canadian Employer
- LMIA Exemptions
- Valid Passport
- Proof of Adequate Funds
- Clean Criminal Record
- Medical Examination Test (you should be in good condition)
- Provide biometric data
About the Process
To work in Canada, most foreign nationals require a work visa for Canada. Work permits are classified into two classes.
Employer-specific Work Permit
An employer-specific work permit allows you to work in Canada by the terms of your work permit, such as
- the name of the specific employer for whom you can work
- how long can you work
- the location where you will be able to work (if appropriate)
Your employer must permit you before you apply for an employer-specific work permit.
- a duplicate of your employment contract
Choose one of the following:
- a labour market impact assessment (LMIA) copy
- a job offer number (for LMIA-exempt employees)
- Your employer must use the Employer Portal to obtain this number
Open Work Permit
An open work permit is a non-job-specific work permit. You will not require the following documents when applying for your work visa because they are not job-specific:
- Employment and Social Development Canada conducted a labor market effect evaluation.
- Proof that an employer has filed a job offer via the Employer Portal and paid the employer compliance fee
Work Visa Requirements in Canada
- 67/100 on the Canada Point grid
- The ECA report
- Results of IELTS/PTE
- 1 to 2 years of relevant job experience
- A genuine career opportunity in Canada
- A valid passport (valid for at least 6 months).
- Evidence of funds
- Medical coverage
- Certificate of Police Verification
- PNP nomination (optional)
Work Visa for Canada Eligibility Criteria
You must meet specific qualifying standards regardless of the type of work permit you are seeking. These are some examples:
- A valid work offer letter from a Canadian employer with a positive LMIA is required.
- A minimum of two years of work experience is necessary.
- In the Canada points calculator, 67 points equal
- The ECA report
- Academic qualifications
- CLB – 5/ IELTS – 6.5
Procedure for Obtaining a Work Visa for Canada
Follow the procedures below to obtain your Canada Work Visa.
- Examine the eligibility requirements
- Obtain your ECA
- Create a requirements checklist
- Apply for a Work Visa for Canada
- Work and live in Canada
Time Required for Processing
For applicants from abroad, the processing time ranges from 5 to 6 months. The kind of work permit you choose to apply for will determine this. The dependant work visa category of the Canadian government permits immigration for family members.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I obtain a work permit for Canada from India?
Indian passport holders can live and work in Canada for a set period under specific restrictions with a Canada Work Permit. Depending on their needs and interests, applicants can submit either online or offline (paper) applications.
-
Who is eligible to work in Canada?
Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada, regardless of their place of residence, do not need a work permit or visa to work in Canada. Foreign nationals wishing to work or visit Canada may require a work permit, a visitor visa, or both.
-
Can I move to Canada if I don’t have a job?
While having a work offer in Canada can improve your chances of getting permanent residency, it is not required. Several immigration schemes do not require a work offer, such as Family Sponsorship, Express Entry, and the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
Watch Video- Convert a visitor visa to a work permit in Canada | Visitor visa as a work permit.
Don’t forget to fill out the form below for some insights and advice from our experts!