Canadian work permits allow foreign nationals to live and work temporarily in Canada. Canadian work experience can also improve eligibility for the Economic Permanent Residence (PR) program. Here, we answer the six most common and Important FAQs About Canadian Work Permits.
Types of Canadian Work Permits:
Open Work Permits (OWPs) vs. Employer-Specific Work Permits:
| Open Work Permits | Employer-Specific Work Permits |
| allow individuals to work for any employer across Canada in most industries. These permits offer flexibility and broader opportunities. | restrict the holder from working for a particular employer, often specifying the job location and duration. These permits typically require a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian job market. For an LMIA to support a work permit application, it must show a positive or neutral result. |
Type of Permit Flexibility (LMIA) Requirement:
| Type of Permit | Flexibility | LMIA Requirement |
| Open Work Permit (OWP) | High | No |
| Employer-Specific Work Permit | Low | Yes |
Processing Times for Work Permit Applications:
How Long Will It Take?
The processing time for work permits varies widely based on the type of permit, the applicant’s location, and other factors. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides a regularly updated processing times tool that accounts for the current capacity and backlog of applications.
Use IRCC’s Processing Times Tool for the latest information.
Applying for a Work Permit as a Visitor in Canada:
Temporary Policy During COVID-19:
Typically, visitors in Canada need help to apply for work permits. However, due to a temporary policy (expiring February 28, 2025), some visitors can now apply for employer-specific work permits if they meet specific criteria:
- Physically present in Canada when applying
- Remain in Canada during processing
- Apply between August 24, 2020, and February 28, 2025
- Maintain valid visitor status when applying
- Restore visitor status if expired before applying
Note: Some professions are ineligible under this policy.
Appealing Work Permit Decisions:
Is There a Right of Appeal?
Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act does not grant a right of appeal for temporary resident applications. Applicants are encouraged to reapply if denied, ensuring that a different officer reviews the new application.
In Applicants can pursue a judicial review in cases where procedural standards are not followed. This process involves the Federal Court of Canada reviewing the officer’s actions, with a lawyer representing the applicant.
Replacing a Lost, Stolen, or Destroyed Work Permit:
Steps to Replace Your Permit:
If you lose your work permit, you must apply for a replacement and pay a fee for reprinting. Then, submit the necessary application forms and documents to IRCC for processing.
Applying for a Work Permit Upon Arrival in Canada:
Eligibility Criteria:
IRCC advises newcomers to apply for their work permits before arriving in Canada. However, specific individuals can apply at a port of entry (POE) if they:
- Are from a visa-exempt country
- Qualify for an electronic travel authorization (eTA)
- Meet all other specific requirements for the type of work permit
When POE Applications Are Not Allowed:
Individuals cannot apply for a work permit at a POE if they:
- Require a visitor visa to enter Canada
- Are you applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
- Are citizens of eligible visa-required countries
- Are International Experience Canada (IEC) applicants who are not US citizens or permanent residents
- Are you applying under the Seasonal Agriculture Worker Program
Applicants at a POE might need a medical exam in support of their application.
Understanding the Important FAQs About Canadian Work Permits can significantly ease the application process. Whether applying from abroad or navigating specific scenarios like replacing a lost license, this guide provides the essential information newcomers need.
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