Home » Work in Canada

Work in Canada Programs

As a foreign national seeking temporary employment in Canada, navigating the various work permit options can be a daunting task. However, at ImmigCanada, we are committed to simplifying the process for you to work in Canada.  

In Canada, foreign workers can obtain work permits through these two categories:

  • The Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
  • The International Mobility Program (IMP)

To obtain a work permit under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), one is required to go through Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). The LMIA requires a Canadian employer to demonstrate to the federal government that hiring a foreign worker will not impact the existing workforce. It is also essential to understand that not all work permits under the TFWP require an LMIA. Free trade agreements, such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), offer LMIA-exempt work permit options.

International Mobility Program (IMP)

The IMP offers work permit options without the need for an LMIA. Examples of IMP work permits include those issued under free trade agreements like CUSMA, intra-company transfers, work permits for business visitors, post-graduation work permits, and open spousal work permits.

Here’s a Quick Preview of the Common Categories Through Which One Can Work in Canada:

LMIA Required

These work permits necessitate the employer to obtain an LMIA as part of the application process. It demonstrates that hiring a foreign worker will not have a negative impact on the Canadian workforce.

LMIA Exempt

Certain circumstances allow individuals to work in Canada without first obtaining an LMIA. These exemptions result from free trade agreements like CUSMA, which enable foreign workers to apply for work permits directly, bypassing the LMIA requirement.

CUSMA

Work permits issued under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (formerly NAFTA) allow foreign workers to work in Canada without an LMIA. This agreement facilitates trade and labor mobility between Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

Related Links:

Temporary Foreign Work Permit Program (TFWP):
International Mobility Program
Global Talent Stream
Labour Market Impact Assessment
What is an NOC Code?
Find Your NOC Job Title Code and Skill Type
How to Apply For Jobs in Canada
How to Apply for a Canada Work Visa
Work Visa Types
NAFTA Work Permits
Working Holiday Visa
Open Work Permit
Bridging Open Work Permit

Intra-Company Transfers

These work permits are designed for companies to transfer certain employees from their overseas offices to Canada without the need for an LMIA. It streamlines the process for multinational corporations to bring their employees to Canada.

Business Visitors

Mostly, business visitors can perform work-related activities in Canada as long as they meet specific requirements.

Post-Graduation Work Permits

Foreign students who graduated from Designated Learning Institutions in Canada can qualify for post-graduation work permits and are allowed to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their course.

Secure Your Work Permit with ImmigCanada, We have extensive experience helping individuals navigate the complex landscape of work permits in Canada. Our team of experienced RCICs can help you with the right pathway to work in Canada.