Maple News reports that Canadian work permits play a crucial role in helping foreign nationals temporarily live and work in Canada. Not only do these permits open pathways to employment, but they also enhance a candidate’s eligibility for economic permanent residence by providing valuable Canadian work experience.
There are two main types of work permits in Canada: open work permits (OWPs) and employer-specific or closed work permits. OWPs allow foreign workers to move freely between jobs and employers across Canada. In contrast, employer-specific permits tie the worker to a single employer and job location, often requiring a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a government tool that evaluates the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the local labor market.
Processing times for work permits can vary significantly depending on factors such as the type of permit, applicant location (inside or outside Canada), and IRCC’s current application volume. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) provides an online tool to check estimated processing times based on these variables.
Due to a pandemic-era policy now extended until February 28, 2025, some visitors in Canada may be eligible to apply for employer-specific work permits without leaving the country. Applicants must be physically present in Canada at the time of application and must maintain valid visitor status. This option is not available to all professions or visa categories, but holds potential for eligible candidates to transition into the workforce sooner.
If a work permit application is refused, there is no formal appeal process. Applicants are instead advised to reapply. Alternatively, if a candidate believes there was an error in how their application was processed, they may seek a judicial review through the Federal Court. This legal route must be undertaken with the assistance of a Canadian immigration lawyer.
In cases of lost, stolen, or damaged work permits, holders must formally request a replacement by submitting an application and paying a reprinting fee. Acting quickly in such instances is crucial to maintaining legal status and compliance.
For some applicants, such as those from visa-exempt countries, it may be possible to apply for a work permit at a Canadian port of entry (POE). However, this option is restricted and does not apply to individuals needing a visitor visa, those applying for Post-Graduation Work Permits, or Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program participants. Additional requirements, including a medical exam, may also apply.
Understanding the rules and eligibility for Canadian work permits can be complex, but staying informed helps newcomers navigate the system more effectively, increasing their chances of building a successful future in Canada.