A work permit is a legal document that allows a foreign national to labour in Canada. Each year, Canada issues approximately 500,000 work permits to temporary foreign workers from all over the globe. Many foreign citizens looking for work come to Canada. Working in Canada is also an excellent first move for those looking to permanently immigrate to the country.
With a few exceptions, most foreign nationals require a permit to operate in Canada.
Most applicants will need a Canadian job offer backed by a Labour Market Impact Assessment to apply for a work permit. (LMIA). There are some exceptions where foreign workers can file for a work permit without an LMIA or a job offer. A recent graduate from a Canadian Designated Learning Institute (DLI) or the spouse of someone already on a Canadian employment or study permit are examples of this.
Candidates who are eligible to apply for a work permit must also fulfil the following requirements: