Canada is a popular destination for professionals and skilled workers seeking better opportunities, a high quality of life, and a multicultural environment. To legally work in Canada, it is necessary to obtain the correct visa. Canada offers a variety of functions and immigration paths corresponding to different job types, durations, and search profiles. This article is about the most important types of labor visas available and the selection criteria to help you understand which visa is correct for you.
1. Temporary work permit (TWP)
It is usually associated with a specific employer and work.
Qualification:
- Offer a valid job from a Canadian employer.
- As long as the job is LMIA-free, an assessment of the labor market’s influence from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) (LMIA).
- There is evidence that you meet job requirements.
- Confirm that you will leave Canada at the end of the permit.
Duration:
Temporary tasks. Permissions are typically valid for up to 2 years but can be extended under specific conditions.
2. Work permit open
General Landscape:
- Spouses, skilled workers, or partners of international students.
(obtaining a work permit through education). - Bridge for Open Work Permit (Baup) for persons waiting for decisions on permanent residence.
- No LMIA or job offers are required to apply for an open work permit, making it a flexible alternative.
3. Post-Graduation Work Condition (PGWP)
International students who complete a full-time program (minimum 8 months) at a qualified Canadian Institute can apply for a PGP.
Important features:
- Allows new graduates to work for any employer in Canada.
- Depending on the length of the study program, the certificate is valid for a period of three years.
- Often used as a step toward permanent stay.
4. Employer-specific work permit
This type of visa allows you to work for employers who are listed only under specific terms and at the specified site.
Claim:
- Offers a written job.
- A positive LMIA.
- A signed employment agreement.
- One must apply for a new work permit to replace a job.
5. Global Talent Section (GTS)
The global talent flow is designed to attract highly effective technical professionals and facilitate their entry into the Canadian job market more quickly.
Advantage:
- LMIA treatment within 10 commercial days.
- Access to the best technological hubs in Canada, such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
- The GTS category is available for employers for roles listed under A or B.
6. Transfer of work permit in the company
Multinational companies can transfer their employees to a Canadian branch via Intra-Company Transfer (ICT).
Qualification:
- The original company should hire it for at least 1 year.
- To transfer to a management, executive, or special knowledge.
- It is ideal for internal reproduction and expansion of the company.
7. International Experience Canada (IEC) Visa
The IEC Visa is designed for young people (typically aged 18-35) from other countries who wish to work and travel in Canada.
Three categories:
job
Holiday: Open work permit without job offer.
Young Professional: Employer-specific work permit for career development.
International Cum (Internship): For students who offer jobs related to their field.
Steps to Apply for a Task Vision in Canada
- Obtain a job offer: Most work permits require an employment offer from a Canadian employer.
- Check the LMIA requirements: Determine if your job requires an LMIA and if your employer has applied for one.
Collect the necessary documents, including passports, letters, LMIA (if applied), educational and work experience documents, and language test results (in some cases).
- Submit your application: Search online through the IRCC Portal or a Visa Application Center (VAC) in your country.
- Biometry and medical examination: Depending on your nationality, you may be required to provide fingerprints or undergo a medical exam.
- Wait for the decision: The treatment time varies depending on the visa type and country of residence.
Who does not require a labor visa?
Some individuals may work in Canada without permits under specific circumstances. Examples include:
- Trade visitors.
- Foreign government person.
- Display of artists and public speakers (short-term attachments).
- Athletes and team members.
- Even in these cases, passengers may still need visitors or electronic travel authorities (ETA) to enter Canada.
Path to permanent stay
- Working in Canada also opens the door to permanent stay (PR) to act legally, e.g.,
- Express Entry (federal skilled worker, Canadian experience class).
- Provincial Nomination Program (PNP).
- Atlantic Immigration Program.
- Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot (RNIP).
Gaining Canadian work experience increases your points under a broad ranking system (CRS) and enhances your PR options.
Final thoughts
Choosing the correct visa to work legally in Canada depends on your qualifications, job offer, country of origin, and long-term goals. Whether you are a student, a technical expert, a skilled worker, or a young professional, Canada offers a range of visa options to suit your needs. Always visit the website for immigration and refugee services for the most up-to-date information, or consult a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer for personalized guidance.