Working in Canada

Most people need a work permit to legally work in Canada. Your employer, job description, and location determine the type of work permit you will receive.

To be eligible for a work permit, you must show that you have the necessary qualifications needed for the specified job, show intent to leave Canada when the permit expires, be in good health, and have no criminal records.

FAQ

  • There are two types of work permits:

    •  Employer-specific work permit or

    •  Open work permit

  • Some conditions will be written directly on your work permit.

    These may include:

    • The type of work you can do

    • The employer you can work for

    • Where you can work

    • How long you can work

  • A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document that an employer in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker.

    A positive LMIA will show that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job. It will also show that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job. A positive LMIA is sometimes called a confirmation letter.