A work permit is a document permitting you to work in Canada under certain conditions. There are many types of work permits programs available, and each has its own set of conditions to work in Canada.
Work Permits: Conditions to work in Canada.
In Canada, there are 2 types of work permits. There are significant differences between the two types of work permits, so it is essential to understand them both. The two types of work permits are:
Employer-specific work permits
Open Work Permits
For example, an open work permit is given to a foreign worker with fewer conditions to work in Canada. On the other hand, an employer-specific work permit restricts the work activities someone may do in Canada.
Let’s take a closer look.
Employer-Specific Work Permits
Employer-specific work permits limit you to work for a specific employer only. It does not allow you to look for any jobs while in Canada. Instead, your employer in Canada will need to obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). An LMIA is a document employers in Canada may need to get before hiring a foreign worker. It ensures that no Canadian worker or permanent resident is available to do the job and grants permission to employ foreign workers. Therefore, you can apply for a work visa for Canada.
Applying for a work visa for Canada for a specific employer will allow you to work in Canada with a set of conditions included on the work permit. The conditions to work in Canada include the following:
- The name of the employer;
- The duration of the work permit;
- The province of residence.
You must find employment before applying for a work visa for Canada. Also, your employer must complete and apply for an LMIA. You will be provided with a copy of the LMIA once it is issued and a copy of your official employment offer letter. Both documents have to be included with your application for a work visa for Canada.
Open Work Permits
Open-work permits allow you to work freely for any employer in Canada, but these permits are granted only under certain conditions. So let’s take a closer look.
There are different types of open work permits in Canada; however, not everyone can apply. An open work permit may be granted based on two regulations:
International agreements or arrangements
Canadian interests
International agreements
Canada has bilateral immigration programs with other countries that allow simplified immigration mobility. For example, Canada and Vietnam signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The CPTPP agreement aims at helping investors, intra-company transferees, and other professionals to gain status in Canada.
Canadian interests
Canada welcomes individuals who intend to perform work to create and maintain significant economic or cultural benefits for Canada. The program also supports reciprocal agreements with other countries for academic and professional research exchange programs.
For example, suppose someone is applying under the Canadian visa startup program and wish to start a business while waiting for the permanent residence visa. In that case, an open work permit may be issued for a limited time for the person to start their business activities in Canada.
Also, accompanying spouses of international students and foreign workers can apply for an open work permit and access the Canadian labor market for the same duration as the permit issue to their spouse.
Not sure if you qualify to apply for a work visa for Canada? Take our self-assessment test today!
