Unlocking Your Future in Canada: All About Working Visas

Are you looking for the right job in Canada? There are many important considerations to keep in mind when searching for the perfect employment opportunity. Navigating your way through the Canadian workplace system can be a challenge, especially for those who are new to the country. Let’s discuss the things that you need to know about a Canada Working Visa to secure your future over there.

TYPES OF WORK PERMITS:

Canada relies on immigration to maintain a healthy labor force and grow its economy. With an aging population and constantly low fertility rate, immigration is part of the solution when it comes to alleviating the pressure caused by those exiting the workforce. Canada’s immigration policy welcomes skilled workers and entrepreneurs and invites their invaluable contribution to its culture and economy by essentially offering them two types of Canadian work permits that allow foreign nationals to work in Canada for a certain period. discussed below;

• OPEN WORK PERMIT: 

The main characteristic of an open work permit is that it is not specific to one employer. Therefore, a foreign national applying for an open work permit does not need to be offered a job in Canada. Generally, a person with an unrestricted open work permit may work for any eligible employer in any position (if the person is qualified) in the country. Open work permits may also be restricted, which means that foreign workers need to comply with the conditions specified on their work permits. This type of work permit is for people in specific situations, such as students who can no longer meet the costs of their studies; international students who graduated from a Designated Learning Institution and are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program; workers with an employer-specific work permit who are being abused or are at risk of being harmed in relation to their job in Canada and the spouse or common-law partner of a skilled worker or international student. Additional eligibility criteria may apply.

In most cases, an open work permit can be applied for from within Canada, from outside Canada, or at a Canadian port of entry. However, where to use it depends on some factors (e.g., program). Thus, applicants need to check the program they qualify for to find out where to apply.

• CLOSED WORK PERMIT: 

Closed work permits are the most common type of work permit issued in Canada and are often given to foreign workers seeking employment from one specific employer. This type of permit is also called an employer-specific work permit and includes the name of the employer, the length of time the foreign national can work in Canada, and the location where the work can take place. A positive LMIA is required in order to be granted a closed, non-LMIA-exempt work permit. Closed LMIA-exempt work permits allow foreign nationals to work for one specific employer, in a particular position, without the need for an LMIA, and are based on either international. Agreements or arrangements or Canadian interests, meaning that the work permits are created to promote economic, cultural, and other competitive advantages for Canada and mutual benefits enjoyed by Canadians and permanent residents. Good examples of significant economic, social, or cultural benefits include the advancement of Canadian industry (e.g., technological development) and the creation of jobs.

WHAT IS LMIA?

A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is needed before an employer can hire a foreign national for most closed work permits. This evaluation ensures that said employer tried to find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to fill the position before deciding to hire someone from elsewhere. In other words, the employer should get a positive LMIA, also called a confirmation letter, which shows that they haven’t been able to find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident available and eligible for this particular position, justifying the need to hire a foreign national temporarily.

Some closed work permits are LMIA exempted, and an LMIA as a prerequisite does not apply to an open work permit.
Those who decide to pursue work in Canada must apply for the work permit for which they are eligible and take the steps required in their particular situation.

REQUIREMENTS NEEDED TO GET CANADIAN WORK VISA:

The following documentations are required to obtain the Canadian work visa; 

  • A valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
  •   Demonstrated qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to the job.
  •   Proof of sufficient funds to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay in Canada.
  •   A clean criminal record and good health.

CONCLUSION:

To conclude, Canada is a great place to work and offers many unique opportunities for those seeking employment. Navigating your way through the Canadian workplace system can be a challenge, especially for those who are new to the country. Therefore, the above procedure can help the applicants to obtain a Canadian work visa and secure their future in Canada.