Work Permit

If you are looking to work in Canada, you will likely need a work permit. A work permit is a legal document that allows you to work in Canada for a specific period of time. There are several types of work permit applications available, and in this section, we will explain them briefly to help you understand which one may be right for you.

• 1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) Work Permit: The TFWP work permit is designed for individuals who have a job offer from a Canadian employer. This permit allows the individual to work in Canada for a specific period of time. The employer will need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before the work permit can be issued.
• 2. International Mobility Program (IMP) Work Permit: The IMP work permit is for individuals who are exempt from the LMIA requirement. This permit is typically issued for people in specific situations, such as intra-company transfers, NAFTA professionals, or individuals participating in international agreements such as the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).
• 3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): The PGWP is for international students who have completed a program of study in Canada. This permit allows the individual to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their studies.
• 4. Open Work Permit: An open work permit is not automatically granted to all foreign nationals. Instead, they are issued to certain individuals who are also exempt from the LMIA requirement, such as those with no other means of support, certain kinds of permanent resident applicants living in Canada, and foreign nationals living in Canada for humanitarian reasons. There are also occupation-restricted open work permits, which are given to eligible workers who have not completed a medical exam. Holders of occupation-restricted open permits are usually not allowed to work in jobs related to healthcare, primary or secondary school teaching, or childcare. However, unrestricted open work permits can be given to eligible workers who have passed the medical exam and allow the individual to work in any job, in any place, and for any employer.
• 5. Global Talent Stream (GTS): The GTS is a fast-track program for employers who need to hire highly skilled workers from abroad. This program allows employers to bring in workers in as little as two weeks.

In conclusion, these are the five different types of work permits available in Canada. Each type of work permit has its own specific requirements and eligibility criteria. If you are interested in working in Canada, we can help you determine which type of work permit is right for you. Our team of experienced immigration consultants can assist both potential employers and employee clients with the entire application process, from start to finish. Contact us today to learn more.