Processing times for work permits vary depending on the program and individual circumstances, and may take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. There are several types of work permits that individuals can apply for in Canada, including:

Open Work Permit:

This type of permit allows individuals to work for any employer in Canada. Open work permits are typically issued to individuals who are already in Canada as visitors, international students, or temporary foreign workers, and who do not have a specific job offer. Accordingly the application must fall under one of the following categories:

• Caring for Children Class
• Caring for People with High Medical Needs Class
• Canadian Experience Class
• Family Class
• Federal Skilled Worker
• Federal Skilled Trades Program
• Provincial Nominee Program

With this type of work permit, your job placement is not restricted to a specific employer and you may work for any employer unless the company is listed as ineligible on the list of employers who failed to comply with the conditions. Overall, the process of getting a work permit – beginning with the application, getting an LMIA from your future employer, and getting the actual documents may take a couple of weeks to a couple of months. It also depends on the type of work you are applying for. If your job is at the managerial, executive, or professional level, you may be eligible for a two-week application process.


Employer-Specific Work Permit:

This type of permit allows individuals to work in Canada for a specific employer. To obtain an employer-specific work permit, individuals need a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. In many cases, the employer will need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), which verifies that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job.

International Mobility Program (IMP) Work Permit:

This type of permit is issued to individuals who are exempt from the LMIA process under certain international agreements, such as the North American Free Trade (NAFTA) or the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). The application process for a Canadian work permit can be complex and confusing, especially for those who are unfamiliar with Canadian immigration laws and regulations.

To avoid any complications in the application process, it is recommended to seek assistance from a licensed Canadian immigration consultant who has the necessary training and expertise to ensure that all requirements are fulfilled and the application is accurately completed..

In addition to work permits, Canada offers several other immigration programs, including:

Overall, Canada's immigration system is well-regarded around the world for its fairness and transparency. With the right information and guidance, individuals seeking to work or live in Canada can find many opportunities for success.

Exemptions

• Athletes and Team Members
• Civil Aviation Inspectors
• Convention & Conference Organizers (excluding technical workers & personnel)
• Crew Members
• Emergency Service Providers
• Expert Witnesses or Investigators
• Farm Workers
• Foreign Government Officers
• Foreign Representatives and their family members
• Health Care Students
• Judges, Referees and Similar Officials involved in sports and arts activities
• Military Personnel
• News Reporters and Media Crews
• On-Campus Work
• Performing Artists
• Public Speakers (only non-commercial speakers)