When it comes to living and working in Canada, the options seem almost endless, as the country offers over 100 immigration routes. Along with these numerous immigration programs, there are also many requirements. One of the most frequently asked questions is about the Canadian work visa application.
There is no reason not to join the more than 1.2 million newcomers welcomed to Canada by 2023. In this guide, we will answer all the crucial questions about the Canadian work visa application process.
FAQ 1: What Is a Canadian Work Visa?
The Canadian work permit, also known as the Canadian work visa, allows foreigners to work in the country for a specified period. This work permit enables business people, temporary workers, permanent workers, students, and others to work in Canada. There are two main types of work visas in Canada:
- Employer-specific work permits
- Open work permits
FAQ 2: How Can I Get an Employer-Specific Work Permit?
Most foreigners who wish to work in Canada will receive an employer-specific work permit. This closed work permit allows you to work under specific conditions, limiting you to one employer and one position.
Limitations on your visa may include:
- The name of the specific employer you can work for
- The duration of your employment
- The location where you can work
One way to obtain a closed work permit is through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP). This program allows Canadian employers to temporarily hire foreign nationals to fill labor shortages and bring new skills to the economy. The TFWP includes sectors such as the Global Talent Stream and the Agricultural Stream.
Global Talent Stream
The Global Talent Stream (GTS) helps Canadian employers quickly recruit highly skilled foreign talent. One of the main advantages of the GTS is that processing times can be as short as two weeks. The GTS is available for two categories of employers:
Category A: This category is for employers referred to the GTS by one of its Designated Partners after demonstrating the need to hire unique and specialized TFWs (Temporary Foreign Workers).
To be eligible for this category, you must meet the following conditions:
- Have a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
- Have a job offer in Canada
- Prove that you will leave Canada after the work permit expires
- Demonstrate that you can finance your stay and your family’s stay in Canada
- Have a clean criminal record
- Prove that you aren’t a threat to national security
- Be in good health
Category B: This category is for employers looking to hire highly skilled foreign workers to fill in-demand positions on the Global List of Talented Occupations. This list includes professions such as:
- Computer and information systems managers
- Database analysts and data administrators
- Computer programmers and interactive media developers
- Information systems testing technicians
Agricultural Stream
The Agricultural Stream allows foreigners to work as TFWs for up to 24 months. Employers must pay round-trip transportation costs, provide affordable housing, and cover health insurance.
FAQ 3: How Can I Get an Open Work Permit?
An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada. However, a restricted open work permit might limit you to a specific type of work. The open work visa also exempts you from needing a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
One way to obtain an open work permit is through the International Mobility Program (IMP). This program allows Canadian employers to hire TFWs without requiring an LMIA. Employers favor this program because it is faster and easier.
The IMP serves the broader economic and cultural interests of Canada. One of these interests is the Graduate Work Permit, which allows international students to obtain an open work visa.
Post-Graduation Work Permit
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students graduating from a designated learning institution (DLI) to obtain an open work visa. Graduates with the PGWP can change jobs or locations in Canada. The validity can be up to three years, depending on the length of the program.
You can apply for a PGWP if:
- Your study permit is still valid
- You have a valid visitor record
- You maintained full-time student status in Canada
- You applied to extend your study permit before it expired, and no decision has been made on your application
- You studied a program at a designated learning institution that lasted at least eight months
If studying in Canada interests you, many affordable colleges are available. The spouse or common-law partner of an international student can also apply for an open work permit.
Other programs that allow you to obtain an open work permit include International Experience Canada (IEC), being the spouse of a skilled worker, an applicant for the Atlantic Immigration Pilot, or a family member of someone who has applied for permanent residency.
FAQ 4: What Is the Cost of a Canadian Work Permit?
Here are the fees associated with the Canadian work visa application process:
| Canadian Work Visa Fees | |
|---|---|
| Fees | CAN |
| Work permit (including extensions) – per person | $155 |
| Work permit (including extensions) – per group (3 or more performing artists) | $465 |
| Open work permit holder | $100 |
| Restore your status as a worker – Restore your status ($200) and get a new work permit ($155) | $355 |
The maximum group fee for a work permit applies to groups of three or more performing artists and their staff who apply simultaneously and in one location.
FAQ 5: How Long Does it Take to Get a Canadian Work Visa?
The processing time for a Canadian work visa varies widely and depends on the completeness of your application and the office where you submitted it. Generally, it takes around 1 to 27 weeks to process the permit.
FAQ 6: How to Apply for a Work Visa
To apply for a work permit, you must go through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This can be done online, and each country of origin will have different forms that need to be filled out.
Benefits of Applying Online
- No courier fees or mail delivery time – your application is received instantly.
- Ensures your application is complete before submission.
- Allows for the quick submission of additional documents if needed.
- Provides updates on the status of your application directly in your online account.
Your Pathway to Working in Canada
Whether you are working in Canada on an open or closed work visa, this experience can pave the way for your future in the country. Work experience in Canada plays a crucial role in the success of individuals seeking to become permanent residents. The Canadian Experience Class, included in the Express Entry system, is an excellent way to leverage your Canadian work experience for a long-term stay.