Depending on how you approach it, starting a new job may be both daunting and thrilling. For foreign nationals seeking to launch a new profession abroad, Canada is generally cited as the best option. For those seeking to boost their earning potential while enjoying the full splendor of Canada’s landscape, the north’s thriving economy is a key lure. To pursue your job aspirations, you must first acquire a legitimate work permit for Canada.
A work permit in Canada allows you to work legally in the country, earn an income, pay taxes, and conduct business. To obtain a work permit, you must complete and obtain a number of documents, which together make up your Canada work permit application pack. The way you fill it out will determine whether or not your application is successful, so be thorough. Let’s take a look at what you’ll require.
What is the definition of a work permit?
A work permit is a written authorization issued by a Canadian immigration officer that allows you to work in Canada as a permanent resident of another country. To get one, you’ll need to gather a long list of documents, including a job offer and your biometrics, to name a few. When a work permit is granted, it is only valid for the employer, position, and time period specified. It is issued in response to an Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an offer of employment from an LMIA-exempt employer.
Is a work permit required for me?
If you do not have Canadian citizenship or permanent residency and wish to work in Canada for a limited time, you will need a work permit. While you may be exempt from needing one in some circumstances, it is generally required to keep your employment status legal.
What is an LMIA (Labor Market Impact Assessment)?
A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) that allows an employer to hire a temporary employee.
The ESDC evaluates an employer’s LMIA application to see how the hiring of a temporary foreign worker will affect the job market in Canada. They will then send the employer a positive or negative LMIA letter. Your employer must provide you with a copy of the letter so that it can be included in your work permit application packet.
Because an LMIA is granted for a specific amount of time, the work permit you receive is only valid for that amount of time. If you need a work permit for a longer period of time, you’ll most likely need to obtain another LMIA.
What do you need to apply for a work permit in Canada?
Let’s go over everything you’ll need for your Canadian work permit application now that you know what a work permit is. Remember that submitting an incomplete work permit application package will result in your application being rejected.
You’ll require
A copy of your prospective employer’s offer of employment.
Evidence that you are qualified for the position that has been offered to you.
At least two photo IDs are required.
Your biometric information (possible at this stage).
A copy of your prospective employer’s Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
A job offer to a foreign national who is not subject to a labour market impact assessment.
You’ll need to fill out the following forms.
Outside of Canada, an application for a work permit is submitted (IMM 1295).
Authorization to Disclose Personal Information to a Designated Person (IMM 5475).
Checklist for Documents (IMM 5488).
Information about the family (IMM 5645).
Schedule 1: Temporary Resident Visa Application.
Common-law Union Statutory Declaration (IMM 5409).
Representatives’ Use (IMM 546).
You’ll need the following documents.
You’ll need a valid passport that allows you to return to the country where it was issued, as well as two ID photos of yourself and any family members who will be accompanying you.
Employment proof in Canada.
Your employer should give you an Offer of Employment number if your work permit is LMIA-exempt. If you require an LMIA, your prospective employer should provide you with a copy of the ESDC’s LMIA as well as a copy of your employment contract.
Relationship evidence
If you’re bringing family members to Canada, you may need to submit marriage and birth certificates. You’ll need to fill out the Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union if you’re in a common-law relationship and your partner will be joining you in Canada (IMM 5409).
Documents to be added
If you are not a citizen of the country or territory from which you are applying, you must provide proof of your current immigration status in that country or territory.
Copies that are certified
You must ensure that all copies of your documents for your Canadian work permit application are certified, as with any official undertaking. This means that a person with authority, known in some countries as an oath commissioner, will have to examine the original document and compare it to the copy before stamping and dating it.
Translations
You must also provide certified copies of original documents that have been translated, including the original document as well as the English or French translations. Furthermore, if your translator is not a professional, you will be required to obtain an affidavit from them.
Medical Examinations
If you want to enter Canada, you may need to undergo a medical examination.
Biometrics
Biometrics is an important part of the application process for a work permit. Your fingerprints will need to be taken at a biometric centre. If you’ll be bringing your family along, they’ll need theirs taken as well. You’ll also need to have your photo taken as part of your biometrics.
If you find yourself in Canada and need to apply for a work permit, you must do so at a designated Service Canada centre.
You won’t need to include paper photos in your work visa application if you submit biometric fingerprints and photos.