Temporary economic migration enhances Canada’s trade, commerce, cultural, educational and scientific activities, in support of our overall economic and social prosperity and national interests.

Foreign nationals require a work permit to be allowed to work and live in Canada, and gain Canadian work experience.  There are various processes through which they can be authorized to do so.  Each process has specific requirements that must be met by the foreign national and the employer in each circumstance.

Employers of some types of temporary workers need to get a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before the worker applies for a work permit. An LMIA is a document from Employment and Social Development Canada that gives the employer permission to hire a temporary worker.

There are also situations where a work permit is not required, eg for employees being transferred within a company or foreign nationals working under an international agreement.

Some temporary workers and international students represent a key talent pool to be retained as immigrants.

Requirements

You will need a work permit if you are not a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident and you want to work temporarily in Canada

You may need a TRV or eTA

You must demonstrate that your stay in Canada will be temporary and that you will leave at the end of your employment.

You must plan to work with an employer who is not barred from using International Mobility and Temporary Foreign Worker programs

You must plan to work in an eligible occupation

You must prove that your are not a criminal, security or health risk to Canadians.

Before you submit your work permit application, your employer must give you a copy of the positive LMIA (if applicable), and your job offer letter or contract.

You may need to provide proof that you are certified, accredited or qualified to work in the specific occupation;