how to apply for a work permit to work to work in Canada
As an immigration lawyer, I understand how important it is for foreign nationals to obtain a work permit to work in Canada. In this guide, I will explain the different types of work permits available and how to apply for each one. I will also cover the eligibility requirements, LMIA, job offer requirement, supporting documents, processing times, and what to do if your application is refused.
Types of Work Permits:
1. LMIA-Exempt Work Permit This type of work permit is available for individuals who are exempt from obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). This could be because they fall under one of the following categories:
- Intra-Company Transfer
- NAFTA Professionals
- International Mobility Program
- Significant Benefit
2. LMIA-Required Work Permit A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required for this type of work permit. The employer must obtain an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) before the foreign national can apply for the work permit. The employer must demonstrate that there are no Canadian citizens or permanent residents available to do the job.
The foreign national must provide supporting documents such as a job offer letter and proof of qualifications. They must also undergo a medical examination and obtain a police certificate.
3. Open Work Permit An open work permit allows the foreign national to work for any employer in Canada. This type of work permit is available for the following individuals:
- Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students
- International students who have graduated from a Canadian educational institution
- Individuals who have been accepted into Canada as refugees or protected persons
- Individuals who have applied for permanent residence in Canada
How to Apply for a Work Permit:
The application process for a work permit depends on the type of work permit being applied for. Generally, the individual must submit an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) either online or by mail. They must provide the necessary documents and pay the required fee.
Eligibility Requirements: To be eligible for a work permit, the individual must meet the following requirements:
- Be admissible to Canada
- Have a job offer from a Canadian employer
- Be able to prove that they will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay
- Have enough funds to support themselves and their family members while in Canada
- Meet the specific requirements of the work permit category they are applying under
Job Offer: The job offer must be from a Canadian employer and must include details of the job, including the job title, duties, and wages. The job offer must be genuine and the employer must be able to demonstrate that they are offering wages and working conditions that are consistent with Canadian standards.
Supporting Documents: The specific supporting documents required depend on the type of work permit being applied for. Generally, the following documents are required:
• A valid passport
• Proof of qualifications and work experience
• A job offer letter
• Proof of financial support
• A medical exam
• Police certificate
Processing Times: The processing times for a work permit application vary depending on the type of work permit being applied for and the location of the visa office. Generally, processing times range from

EXPRESS ENTRY
An Express Entry profile must be created in order to apply for permanent residence in Canada under the Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Category, or Federal Skilled Trades Category

WORK PERMIT
Foreign nationals who have obtained a job offer to work in Canada will need to apply for and obtain a work permit before they can begin the employment position.

Foreign nationals who have gained acceptance into a Canadian school must apply for a Study Permit in order to attend studies in Canada.

BUSINESS IMMIGRATION
Canada allows potential immigrants to immigrate to Canada as Business Immigrants. The Business Immigrant class includes three categories: Immigrant Investor Venture Capital Pilot Program; Start Up Visa; and Self-Employed

VISITOR VISA
Depending on your country of citizenship, you may require a visa in order to enter Canada. A Temporary Resident Visa will permit you to legally enter Canada to visit family and friends or to conduct certain limited business activities as a business visitor.

A Canadian citizen or permanent resident can sponsor their foreign national husband or wife for permanent residence in Canada. They can sponsor their foreign parents for permanent residence if they have sufficient income to do so.

Canadian government and the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act recognize that the refugee program is, first and foremost, about saving lives and offering protection to the displaced and persecuted.

CITIZENSHIP
Canadian permanent residents can apply for citizenship if they have physically resided in Canada for a specified period of time.
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