Work Permit
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JCA Law Office offers the following Immigration Legal Services:
- Open Work Permit
- Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
- Work Permit Extension
Need Help Getting a Work Permit?
Close to 500,000 work permits became effective in Canada in 2019 and about 3% of the total Canadian workforce are temporary foreign workers. Canada recognizes the vital role of foreign workers in supporting industries critical to the Canadian economy.
If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, you likely need a work permit to work legally in Canada. Some exceptions apply such as those in Canada with a student visa or those working under specified conditions.
Work That May Not Require a Permit
Some types of work do not require a work permit in Canada:
Athletes & Coaches
Foreign athletes, coaches, or members of foreign teams competing in Canada do not need a work permit. However, you need a work permit if you will work for a Canadian team.
Business Visitors
If you’re coming to Canada to do business activities and will not be part of the Canadian labour market, you do not need a work permit. Note that a “business visitor” is not the same as “business people” who usually need work permits.
Crew Members
You do not need a work permit if you’re working on foreign-owned and registered vehicles used mainly for international transport (truck drivers, bus drivers, shipping or airline workers).
Emergency Service Providers
You do not need a work permit if you will help in an emergency to preserve life or property (natural disasters, industrial accidents).
Performing Artists
Foreign artists and key support staff performing in Canada for a limited period do not need a work permit, provided they’re not involved in making movies, television, or radio broadcasts.
Other Exemptions
- Aviation accident investigators
- Civil aviation inspectors
- Convention organizers
- Examiners and evaluators (academic)
- Expert witnesses or investigators
- Foreign government officers
- Health care students (clinical clerkships under 4 months)
- Judges and referees at international events
- Military personnel
- News reporters and media crews
- Public speakers
Need Help with Your Work Permit?
Our immigration lawyers can help you navigate the work permit application process.