A Canadian work permit is a document that allows a foreign national to work in Canada for a specific period of time and for a specific employer. In order to obtain a work permit, a foreign national must first apply for and receive a job offer from a Canadian employer. The employer must then apply for a positive labor market impact assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), unless the work permit is exempt from the LMIA process.
If the LMIA is approved, the foreign national can then apply for a work permit. To apply for a work permit, the foreign national must submit an application online or by mail, along with the required documents and fees. The application must be submitted from outside Canada, unless the foreign national is eligible to apply from within Canada.
The processing time for a work permit application can vary depending on a variety of factors, including the location of the applicant, the type of work permit being applied for, and the volume of applications being processed.
There are several types of work permits in Canada, including open work permits, employer-specific work permits, and work permits for self-employed individuals. Each type of work permit has its own specific eligibility requirements and conditions.
Work permits are generally issued for a specific period of time and are tied to a specific employer and job. Foreign nationals with a work permit are typically allowed to work only for the employer and in the occupation specified on their work permit.
