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moreWork Permits (Work Visas)
A Work Permit — or Work Visa — is required before you can accept most temporary jobs in Canada. The requirements and processing times for a Work Permit vary according to the type of work you will do in Canada.
In most cases, you should apply for a permit before entering the country. The application should include the following documents:
- A job offer from a Canadian employer
- Proof that you meet Canadian immigration requirements
- Written confirmation from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada that your employer has permission to hire a foreign worker
You may need a medical examination if you plan to stay in Canada longer than six months. Generally, people in health services, child care, education and agricultural occupations need medical examinations to qualify for a Work Permit. A medical exam will probably lengthen the processing time for your Work Permit by approximately three months.
Work Permits are issued by immigration officers as you enter the country. If you are authorized to work by a visa office outside of Canada, you will receive a letter indicating you are allowed to work in Canada. You must show the letter, along with your passport and other documents, to an immigration officer as you come into Canada. The officer will give you a Work Permit that sets out the conditions of your stay and work in Canada.
Some people may be eligible to apply for a Work Permit from inside Canada or as they enter the country. Applicants from certain countries and territories may also require a temporary resident visa to work in Canada.
Work Permits are not required for some temporary jobs in Canada. For example, some foreign students may be allowed to work without a permit on the campus of the institution where they are studying. The government of Canada maintains a list of job categories that may not require permits.
For More Information
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) information about applying for a Work Permit to work temporarily in Canada. Includes a list of countries and territories whose citizens also need a Temporary Resident Visa and links to Canadian visa offices abroad.
Overview about working in Canada. Includes links to information on government, wages, taxes, important documents, challenges, and rights as well as videos and guides. Also features the Working in Canada Tool, which helps newcomers decide where to live and work by researching different occupations in different locations. Includes job opportunities currently available in Canada.
Information about the Work Permits program for foreign workers who want to work temporarily in Canada, the application process, fees and contact information.
How and when to obtain a work permit, information for international students who want to work, and the special provisions for certain fields.
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) information about eligibility requirements for working temporarily in Canada and how to apply. Includes a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) list of temporary job categories that may not require a work permit.
Applicants for a Work Permit will be required to undergo a medical examination if they have visited certain countries listed on this site for six consecutive months in the previous year.
A list of countries and territories whose citizens require a visa to visit or travel through Canada. Includes information on how to apply for a visa, extending your stay and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ).
A Citizenship and Immigration Canada online tool that will help you find information to on how to visit, study or live in Canada.
Federal immigration category for those individuals who have been in Canada temporarily (as a temporary foreign worker or as a student) and who wish to become permanent residents and immigrate to Canada. A list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is available, as are explanatory videos for both temporary foreign workers and for students.
Canadian government videos about working in Canada. Includes videos on occupations in the tourism sector and various occupations as described by workers. Also include videos of newcomer’s stories about coming to Canada and information about Canada. A partner site to the main Working in Canada website.
Work permit information for businesses wishing to recruit and hire foreign workers. Includes an explanation of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and covers the process and documents required of both employer and employee, and how employees may extend their stay in Ontario. When and where a Labour Market Opinion (LMO) from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) is required.
Job and worker categories for those who do not require a labour market opinion (LMO) in order to obtain a work permit. Categories include: entrepreneurs and intra-company transferees, workers nominated by the province or covered by international agreements, certain international students, spouses and common-law partners eligible for a work permit through an active pilot project or of international full-time students, and more.
Details on work permit options for Business Visitors, Intra-Company Transferees, and Spouses. Includes details on who can apply, documentation requirements, etc. Depending on nationality, individuals in these categories may require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada as well as a work permit.
This program allows students who have graduated from a participating Canadian post-secondary institution to gain work in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience. Criteria, requirements, and how to apply are addressed. Includes a video on the Canadian Experience Class immigration stream for students.
A FAQ with details on study permits and work permits for students. What is required to study in Canada, the process to obtain the required permits, and what are some study and immigration options available to students.
Foreign Credentials Referral Office workbook/guide with information about living and working in Canada. It includes information on languages, finding a job, work-related documents and education/academic credentials.
