Canadian Work Visa: A Comprehensive Guide

A work visa for Canada is a legal document that allows foreign nationals to work temporarily in Canada. It is categorized under temporary resident visas (TRVs), permitting the holder to live and work in Canada for a defined period.
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Types of Canadian Work Visas

Employer-Specific Work Permit

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Tied to one employer and requires a job offer and often an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment)

Open Work Permit

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- Allows the holder to work for any employer (with some restrictions).
- Common for spouses of workers/students, international exchange participants, or refugees.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

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For international students who complete studies at eligible Canadian institutions.

International Experience Canada (IEC)

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Open to youth (18-35 years) from specific countries under streams like Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op.

Global Talent Stream

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Designed to expedite permits for highly skilled workers in tech and specialized fields.

Required Documents

Basic Documents for All Applications :

  • Application Form (IMM 1295): Completed online.
  • Valid Passport: Must cover the full duration of your stay.
  • Passport-Sized Photos: Meeting visa specifications.
  • Proof of Payment: Application and biometric fees.
  • Proof of Relationship (if applicable): Marriage or birth certificate for accompanying family members.

Job-Specific Documents :

  • Job Offer Letter: From a Canadian employer.
  • Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): If required.
  • Employment Contract: Detailing terms like salary and job duties.

Proof of Qualifications :

  • Educational Certificates/Diplomas.
  • Language Test Results (e.g., IELTS or TEF).
  • Work Experience Letters from previous employers.

Financial and Identity Documents :

  • Proof of Funds: Bank statements to show financial stability.
  • Proof of Civil Status: Marriage or divorce certificate.

Additional Requirements (if applicable) :

  • Medical Exam Certificate: For high-risk jobs or applicants from certain countries.
  • Police Clearance Certificate: To prove no criminal record.
  • Proof of Ties to Home Country: Property ownership, family ties, or return ticket.

FAQ

What type of work visa is best for my situation?

The ideal visa depends on your situation:

  • Employer-Specific Work Permit: If you have a job offer tied to a specific employer.
  • Open Work Permit: If you qualify under programs for spouses or youth.
  • PGWP: If you are a recent graduate from a Canadian institution.

Not always. Many work permits, like employer-specific ones, require a job offer. However, open permits and PGWP do not.

Costs include:

  • Work Permit Fee: CAD $155.
  • Biometrics Fee: CAD $85 (individual) or CAD $170 (family).
  • Additional costs for medical exams, police clearance, and document translatio

Processing times depend on the visa type and location, ranging from 2 to 20 weeks. Check the IRCC processing times tool.

Yes. Spouses can apply for an Open Work Permit, and dependent children can apply for a Study Permit. Proof of financial support is required.

Latest Updates

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Adjustments :

  • Business legitimacy verifications rely on agreements with provinces/territories.
  • Increased wage thresholds for high-wage streams (20% above the provincial median).

Visitor-to-Work Permit Policy :

  • Ended in August 2024; visitors can no longer apply for work permits from within Canada.

Work Hour Limits for International Students :

  • Capped at 24 hours per week during academic terms to prioritize education.

Reduced Immigration Targets:

  • Permanent resident targets to decrease from 485,000 in 2024 to 395,000 in 2025.
  • Temporary resident numbers to drop by 30,000 in 2025.
By ensuring you meet all requirements and prepare the correct documentation, you can maximize your chances of successfully obtaining a Canadian work visa.