Canada offers various work permits to suit the needs of different types of foreign workers. Temporary foreign workers in Canada can apply for a 1, 2, or 3-year work permit, depending on the job role and tenure of service. The 1-year work permit is issued to workers willing to migrate to Canada and work as a temporary foreign worker for a short duration. Workers with a valid job offer in Canada can apply for a Canada work permit, which is valid for up to 2 years. Eligible international students who have pursued a Postgraduation degree from Canada can apply for a 3-year Postgraduation Work Permit (PGWP) to migrate and work in Canada as a legal resident.
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Details of Temporary Work Permits in Canada
The eligibility requirements vary depending on the type of work permit you choose. The table below lists the details of the temporary work permits in Canada:
|
Type of work permit |
Who can apply |
Validity |
Processing time |
Processing fees |
|
1-year work permit (Temporary Foreign Work Permit) |
Foreign workers with a valid job offer in Canada (with or without LMIA) |
up to 1 year |
6 to 8 months |
CAD 155 |
|
2-year Work Permit (Canada Work Permit) |
Foreign workers with a valid LMIA-approved job offer in Canada |
up to 2 years |
3 to 4 months |
CAD 155 |
|
3-year Work Permit (Postgraduation Work Permit) |
International students who have attended a vocational or professional course in Canada for more than 8 months |
up to 3 years |
3 to 6 months |
CAD 255 |
Documents required to work in Canada
The following are the documents required to apply for a work permit in Canada:
- An original and valid passport
- Recent photographs
- Proof of current immigration status
- Labour Market Impact Assessment reports (if applicable)
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Proof of study program requirements (or PGWP applicants only)
- Work-experience related documents
- Documents demonstrating education and skills
- Personal identity details
- Police clearance reports
Steps to apply for a 1, 2, or 3-year work permit in Canada
The steps to apply for a work permit in Canada are listed below:
Step 1: Determine the type of work permit you need
Step 2: Gather all the documents required as per the checklist
Step 3: Fill out the visa application form
Step 4: Complete the fee payment
Step 5: Wait for the visa to be approved
Step 6: Fly to Canada
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