Canada Work Visa & Permits: Open, LMIA, IEC, PGWP Guide
Canada work permit
Every year, over 100,000 individuals immigrate to Canada for work purposes. To work in the land of the maple leaf, it is mandatory to obtain a Canadian work visa that allows the applicants to live and work in the country.
Around 1 million job vacancies are available in Canada and abroad companies looking for international employees around the world to fill the labor market gap.
It is a golden opportunity for individuals who have always wanted to have a career in Canada. This is their chance to apply for a Canada work permit and then settle permanently.
What is a Canadian work visa?
A Canadian work visa is given to individuals who want to live and work in the country and meet the specific eligibility requirements.
Applicants can apply for a work visa after obtaining a job offer letter from a Canadian employer.
It is mandatory for employers to obtain ESDC (Employment and Social Development Canada) and LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), which allows them to hire the international workers in Canada, as the needs cannot be fulfilled by Canadian citizens or permanent residents of the country.
Types of Canada Work Permit
There are two types of Canadian work permits: an employer-specific work permit and an open work permit.
Employer-specific work permit
Employer-specific work permit allows foreign workers to work for only one employer as listed on the permit. However, this kind of work permit comes with conditions, such as where your job will be located, what your work duties will be, and the duration of employment. To secure this work permit, an employer needs to have a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) that shows that hiring an international worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market, and a Canadian citizen or permanent resident was not able to fulfill the labor market gap for which employers need to hire foreign workers.
Open work permit
This work permit allows international workers to work for almost any employer, not for any specific one. In this job, workers can change their job or location as they find it suitable. In an open work permit, no labor market impact assessment (LMIA) is required. This work permit is available for groups like spouses of international students, graduates, or participants in special immigration programs.
Eligibility requirements for a Canada Work Visa
International applicants are eligible for a Canadian work permit if they must
Show that they will leave the country once their permit expires.
Have sufficient money to support themselves and their family during their stay in Canada.
Prove that they do not have any criminal record and possess a police clearance certificate.
Demonstrate their intention to work with an eligible employer.
Obey the rules and regulations.
Be in good health.
How to apply for a Canada work Visa?
Acquire a Canadian Job Offer
Obtain a job offer from a Canadian employer. The employer may be required to secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from ESDC to demonstrate the necessity for a foreign worker.
Compile Required Documents
Assemble vital documents, including identification, educational credentials, proof of work experience, and a valid job offer letter.
Apply for the Appropriate Work Visa
If you are seeking a work permit, you must establish an online profile that outlines your skills, work experience, education, and other pertinent information.
Submit Your Application
Complete the online application form and submit all necessary documents through the designated immigration portal. Pay the required fees.
Biometrics and Medical Assessment
Attend a biometrics appointment at a specified location. Complete a medical assessment by an authorized panel physician. Results are sent straight to the immigration authorities.
Await Processing
Exercise patience while your application is being processed. Processing times may differ based on the type of work permit and the immigration program.
Receive Your Canada Work Permit
Upon approval, you will receive your Canada Work Permit. Review the specifics, including the type of work, locations, and duration.
Settle in Canada
Arrive in Canada on or before the date specified on your work permit. Ensure adherence to the conditions outlined in your permit.
Consider Permanent Residency
If you are interested, investigate pathways to permanent residency in Canada, such as Express Entry's Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs.
Documents required for a Canadian work permit
A valid passport
Two recent passport-sized photos
Academic qualification certificates
Application fee receipt
Proof of professional qualifications
Proof of having a sufficient amount
Medical examination
Cost to apply for a Canada work permit
The Canada work permit fee varies from $155 to $255 ( ₹9,300 to ₹15,300 INR). There are costs associated with the application for a Canadian work permit, which are payable in Canadian Dollars (CAD).
For applicants hailing from India, it is beneficial to be aware of these fees in INR to facilitate proper financial planning. Below are the standard fees for work permits, along with their approximate equivalents in INR.
Canada Work Permit Processing Time
The Canada Work Permit typically takes around 3 to 4 months for applicants residing overseas. This timeframe is influenced by the specific type of work permit for which one applies.
Summary
Foreign nationals submit applications for a Canadian work permit from outside the country. However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has indicated that, in certain circumstances, individuals may apply for a work permit while in Canada.
A Canadian work permit enables you to reside and work in the country, even if you do not hold a Canada PR visa. Annually, Canada issues approximately half a million work permits. Those holding a temporary work permit in Canada have numerous pathways to apply for and secure permanent residency in the country.
To apply for a Canada work permit, individuals can connect with Izago, the best immigration consultant in Delhi, who can assist them to obtain the visa on time with in-depth knowledge and experience. Connect today!
