WORK PERMIT FOR CANADA
FOREIGNERS NORMALLY NEED A VALID WORK PERMIT BEFORE WORKING IN CANADA

[More Information About the Process]

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A positive assessment indicates that the hiring of a foreign temporary worker will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market, from the fact that the employer was not otherwise able to hire a local Canadian worker for the same position.

Under specific situations, an LMIA may not be required* before applying for a work permit; however, generally all temporary workers require a work permit** before they can begin any work in Canada.

All work permits are specific to the terms and conditions of the temporary foreign worker’s employment, including job description, length of employment, employment conditions, etc.  Upon arrival, or during the course of employment, should any of their employment terms and conditions change, the foreign temporary worker must notify the appropriate department to amend the conditions of their work permit.

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*Certain categories of employment are exempted from the requirements of obtaining a work permit, as defined in the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) statutes or regulations. 

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** Certain temporary workers are exempted from the requirements of obtaining an LMIA, as per certain treaty agreements.