Want to Work in Canada? These Programs Can Easily Get You a Work Permit

If you dream of working in Canada, securing a work permit is your gateway to making that dream a reality. Over the past decade, Canada’s approach to work permits has evolved significantly, offering new pathways and opportunities for international job seekers.

In this article, we’ll dive into the changing work permit landscape and explore programs that can help you obtain a work permit in Canada.

Want to Work in Canada?

Canada is a popular destination for immigrants and temporary workers alike. There are many different ways to get a work permit in Canada, but two of the most popular programs are the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP).

Work Permit Trends Over a Decade

2010: The Dawn of Transformation

Back in 2010, a total of 531,700 work permits were issued in Canada, laying the foundation for a decade of transformation. Among these permits, 42.4% were issued through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), with the International Mobility Program (IMP) making up the remaining 57.6%.

2021: A Decade’s Evolution

Fast forward to 2021, and the landscape has shifted significantly. Out of 963,400 work permits issued that year, the TFWP contributed approximately 15.1%, while the IMP emerged as a dominant force, issuing a substantial 54.6% of work permits. This seismic shift highlights the growing importance of IMP in Canada’s labour market.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)

The TFWP is designed to help Canadian employers address labour shortages in specific occupations and regions. To hire a foreign worker under the TFWP, employers must first obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). An LMIA is a document that shows that there are no qualified Canadians available to fill the job opening and that hiring a foreign worker will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labour market.

Once an employer has obtained an LMIA, they can then apply for a work permit for the foreign worker. Work permits under the TFWP are typically employer-specific, meaning that the foreign worker can only work for the employer who sponsored them.

Recently, Canada has also extended special measures to help employers hire more temporary foreign workers in key sectors. These measures are designed to address the persistent labour shortages that many businesses are facing.

International Mobility Program (IMP)

The IMP is a broader program that promotes Canada’s economic, social, and cultural interests. There are over 100 different streams under the IMP, which cover a wide range of activities, including:

• Work for employers who have a reciprocal agreement with Canada
• Work for a Canadian employer on a short-term basis (e.g., for a trade show or conference)
• Work in Canada as a student or researcher
• Work in Canada as a cultural or religious worker
• Come to Canada as an intra-company transferee

Unlike the TFWP, the IMP does not require an LMIA. However, employers who want to hire a foreign worker under the IMP must still submit an offer of employment to the Canadian government.

Also Read: Significant Benefit Work Permit: Opening Doors for Foreign Workers in Canada

Which program is right for you?

The best program for you will depend on your individual circumstances and qualifications. If you have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may be eligible to apply for a work permit under the TFWP.

If you don’t have a job offer, you may be eligible to apply for a work permit under one of the many streams of the IMP.

Tips for Getting a Canada Work Permit

Here are some tips for getting a work permit in Canada

• Make sure you meet the eligibility requirements for the program you’re applying to.
• Gather all of the required documentation, including a valid passport, a job offer (if applicable), and an LMIA (if required).
• Submit your application carefully and accurately.
• Be patient. The processing time for work permit applications can vary depending on the program and the number of applications being processed.

Also Read: Work Visa Holders’ Roadmap to Success in Canada’s Job Market

Conclusion

The TFWP and IMP are both excellent options for foreign workers who want to work in Canada. If you’re interested in applying for a work permit, be sure to research the different programs and eligibility requirements carefully. With a little planning and effort, you can increase your chances of success.