Introduction and Key Takeaways
Getting sponsored to work in Canada can be a great way to start a new career, gain international experience, and potentially even immigrate permanently. However, the process of finding a job and obtaining a work permit can be complex and daunting.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about getting sponsored to work in Canada, including:
- The different types of work permits available, such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP)
- The role of the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in the sponsorship process
- Tips for finding a job and employer willing to sponsor you
- The application process for obtaining a work permit
- Options for transitioning from a temporary work permit to permanent residence
- Special considerations for specific industries and occupations
- The impact of COVID-19 on work permit processing and requirements
By understanding the sponsorship process and taking a strategic approach to your job search, you can increase your chances of successfully getting sponsored to work in Canada.
Key takeaways:
- Most foreign workers need a valid job offer from a Canadian employer to obtain a work permit
- The LMIA is a key step in the sponsorship process for many work permits, but some permits are LMIA-exempt
- Networking, tailoring your application, and focusing on in-demand industries can improve your chances of finding a sponsor
- Work permits are temporary, but some can lead to permanent residence through programs like the Canadian Experience Class
- It’s important to understand the specific requirements and processes for your occupation and industry
Types of Work Permits in Canada
There are two main programs through which foreign workers can get sponsored to work in Canada: the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) and the International Mobility Program (IMP).
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
The TFWP allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers to fill temporary labour and skill shortages when qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents are not available.
To hire a foreign worker under the TFWP, the employer must first obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The LMIA verifies that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the job and that no qualified Canadians were passed up in the process.
There are four streams under the TFWP:
- High-wage workers: For positions that meet or exceed the median hourly wage for a given occupation and region.
- Low-wage workers: For positions that fall below the median hourly wage for a given occupation and region.
- Primary agriculture: For positions related to on-farm primary agriculture, such as farming, ranching, and harvesting.
- Caregivers: For positions providing care for children, the elderly, or people with medical needs, either in a private household or a health facility.
Each stream has its own specific requirements and application processes.
International Mobility Program (IMP)
The IMP allows Canadian employers to hire foreign workers without needing an LMIA. The IMP aims to advance Canada’s broad economic and cultural national interests, through channels like reciprocal employment arrangements and competitive advantages.
There are several categories under the IMP, each with its own eligibility criteria and application process:
- Intra-company transferees: For employees of multinational companies being transferred to a Canadian office.
- International agreements: For workers coming to Canada under free trade agreements like CUSMA, CETA, or CPTPP.
- Co-op and internships: For international students completing a work placement as part of their Canadian study program.
- Post-doctoral fellows and award recipients: For researchers and academics coming to work at a Canadian institution.
- Francophone Mobility: For French-speaking workers doing managerial or professional level work outside of Quebec.
Under the IMP, the sponsoring employer must submit an offer of employment through the Employer Portal and pay a compliance fee of $230. The worker can then apply for a work permit.
LMIA Process for Employers
For many streams of the TFWP, the first step in sponsoring a foreign worker is obtaining a positive LMIA. This is a labour market verification process whereby ESDC assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labour market.
To apply for an LMIA, employers must:
- Make efforts to hire Canadians first, including advertising the position for at least four weeks.
- Submit an application along with a processing fee ($1,000 per position).
- Demonstrate that the foreign worker will have a neutral or positive impact on the Canadian labour market.
- Commit to paying the foreign worker the same prevailing wage as Canadian workers in that occupation.
The LMIA application package must include details about the job offer, proof of recruitment efforts, and a transition plan for eventually hiring Canadians to fill the role. Processing times vary by stream and the completeness of the application.
If the LMIA is positive, the employer can extend a job offer to the foreign worker, who can then apply for an employer-specific work permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The permit will be tied to that employer for the duration specified.
Finding a Job and Employer to Sponsor You
One of the key challenges of getting sponsored to work in Canada is finding an employer willing to go through the process of obtaining an LMIA or submitting an offer of employment under the IMP. Here are some tips for improving your chances:
1. Focus on in-demand occupations and industries
Employers are more likely to sponsor foreign workers for positions that are difficult to fill with local talent. By focusing your job search on occupations that are in high demand or experiencing labour shortages in Canada, you increase the chances of finding a sponsoring employer.
The Canadian government maintains a list of in-demand occupations for immigration purposes, which is a good starting point for identifying potential roles. As of 2023, some of the most in-demand occupations include:
- Software engineers and designers
- Nursing and healthcare professionals
- Skilled tradespeople (e.g. electricians, welders, mechanics)
- Truck drivers and delivery personnel
- Financial auditors and accountants
It’s also worth considering industries that are experiencing growth or skills gaps in Canada, such as:
- Technology and digital media
- Healthcare and life sciences
- Agriculture and agri-food
- Advanced manufacturing
- Clean technology and renewable energy
By aligning your skills and experience with the needs of these industries, you can make yourself a more attractive candidate for sponsorship.
2. Network and make connections
Networking is a crucial part of any job search, and it can be especially valuable when seeking sponsorship to work in Canada. By building relationships with professionals in your field and industry, you can learn about potential job opportunities and get introductions to hiring managers.
Some effective ways to network when looking for sponsorship include:
- Attending industry conferences, trade shows, and job fairs (virtually or in-person)
- Joining professional associations and attending their events and webinars
- Connecting with alumni from your university or college who are working in Canada
- Reaching out to Canadian companies directly to express interest and inquire about opportunities
- Leveraging your existing network to get referrals and introductions
Remember to approach networking with a spirit of curiosity and generosity, rather than simply asking for job leads. Focus on building genuine relationships and offering value to your contacts, and opportunities will naturally arise.
3. Tailor your application and emphasize your unique value
When applying for jobs with Canadian employers, it’s important to tailor your resume, cover letter, and other application materials to the specific role and company. Highlight your skills and experience that are most relevant to the position, and use language and terminology that is common in the Canadian job market.
In addition to meeting the basic requirements of the job, emphasize the unique value that you can bring as an international worker. This could include:
- Language skills, especially if you are fluent in both English and French
- International experience and cultural competencies that can help the company expand into new markets
- Specialized skills or knowledge that may be in short supply in the Canadian labour market
- A track record of innovation or leadership in your field
By presenting yourself as a valuable asset to the company, you can increase the likelihood that an employer will be willing to invest in sponsoring you.
4. Consider alternative pathways to sponsorship
While the TFWP and IMP are the most common pathways to getting sponsored to work in Canada, there are some alternative options that may be worth exploring depending on your situation:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Some provinces have immigration streams that allow them to nominate foreign workers for permanent residence based on their skills and experience. If you have a job offer in a participating province, you may be able to get sponsored through the PNP.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): If you have recently graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution, you may be eligible for an open work permit that allows you to work for any employer in Canada for up to three years. This can be a good way to gain Canadian experience and potentially find an employer to sponsor you for a longer-term position.
- Intra-Company Transfer: If you work for a multinational company with offices in Canada, you may be able to get sponsored for a work permit through an intra-company transfer. This allows you to work for the Canadian branch of your company without needing an LMIA.
- International Experience Canada (IEC): If you are between 18 and 35 years old and from one of the participating countries, you may be eligible for a working holiday visa through the IEC program. This allows you to work in Canada for up to two years, which can be a good opportunity to gain experience and make connections with potential sponsors.
It’s worth exploring all of your options and seeking advice from a qualified immigration professional to determine the best path forward for your specific situation.
Work Permit Application Process
Once you have a job offer from a Canadian employer and they have obtained a positive LMIA (if required), you can apply for a work permit. The application process varies depending on your country of citizenship and whether you are applying from inside or outside of Canada.
Applying from Outside of Canada
If you are applying for a work permit from outside of Canada, you will need to submit your application online through the IRCC website. The application package must include:
- A job offer letter from your Canadian employer
- A copy of the positive LMIA (if applicable)
- Proof of your qualifications and experience, such as educational credentials and reference letters
- A valid passport or travel document
- Police clearance certificates from any countries where you have lived for six months or more
- Proof of financial support, to show that you can support yourself and any dependents during your stay in Canada
- Payment of the work permit processing fee ($155 CAD as of 2023)
You may also need to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) as part of your application, depending on your country of citizenship.
After submitting your application, you will receive an acknowledgement of receipt from IRCC. Processing times vary depending on the visa office and the complexity of your case, but you can track the status of your application online.
If your application is approved, you will receive a letter of introduction confirming that you are authorized to work in Canada. You will need to present this letter, along with your passport and other supporting documents, to a border services officer when you arrive in Canada to obtain your work permit.
Applying from Inside of Canada
If you are already in Canada on a valid study or work permit, you may be eligible to apply for a new work permit from inside the country. This is known as a “change of conditions” or “change of status” application.
To apply for a work permit from inside Canada, you will need to submit an application package by mail to the IRCC Case Processing Centre in Edmonton, Alberta. The package must include:
- A job offer letter from your Canadian employer
- A copy of the positive LMIA (if applicable)
- Proof of your qualifications and experience
- A copy of your current study or work permit
- A copy of your passport or travel document
- Payment of the work permit processing fee ($155 CAD as of 2023)
If you are applying to extend your current work permit with the same employer, you may be able to continue working while your application is being processed, as long as you submit your application before your current permit expires. This is known as “implied status”.
If you are applying for a new work permit with a different employer, you must wait until your application is approved before starting your new job.
Transitioning to Permanent Residence
While work permits are temporary in nature, some foreign workers may be eligible to transition to permanent residence in Canada after gaining Canadian work experience. The most common pathway for this is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC).
The CEC is a program under Canada’s Express Entry system that allows foreign workers with at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada to apply for permanent residence. To be eligible, you must:
- Have at least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) skilled work experience in Canada within the last three years
- Meet the language requirements for your job (CLB 7 for NOC 0 or A jobs; CLB 5 for NOC B jobs)
- Meet the educational requirements for your job (usually a post-secondary degree or diploma)
- Be admissible to Canada based on factors like criminal and medical background
If you meet these criteria, you can create an Express Entry profile and enter the pool of candidates for permanent residence. You will be given a score based on factors like your age, education, language skills, and work experience, and the highest-ranking candidates will be invited to apply for permanent residence.
Other potential pathways for transitioning from a work permit to permanent residence include:
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): Some provinces have immigration streams that allow them to nominate foreign workers with a job offer in the province for permanent residence.
- Quebec Experience Class: If you have worked in the province of Quebec for at least 12 months, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Quebec Experience Class.
- Atlantic Immigration Program: If you have a job offer in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, or Newfoundland and Labrador), you may be eligible for permanent residence through the Atlantic Immigration Program.
It’s important to note that the pathways to permanent residence can change over time, so it’s a good idea to consult with a qualified immigration professional or check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date information.
Special Considerations for Certain Occupations and Industries
While the general process for getting sponsored to work in Canada applies to most occupations and industries, there are some special considerations and programs for certain sectors.
Healthcare Professionals
Healthcare is one of the most in-demand sectors for foreign workers in Canada, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic. Nurses, doctors, and other healthcare professionals may be eligible for expedited work permit processing and priority in Express Entry.
To work as a healthcare professional in Canada, you will need to have your foreign credentials recognized and obtain a license from the appropriate regulatory body in the province or territory where you will be working. This process can take several months, so it’s important to start early.
Some provinces, such as Nova Scotia and Newfoundland and Labrador, have dedicated immigration streams for healthcare professionals under their Provincial Nominee Programs.
Tech Workers
The technology sector is another major employer of foreign workers in Canada, particularly in hubs like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal. Many tech occupations are eligible for expedited processing under the Global Talent Stream, which aims to help Canadian companies attract and retain top global talent.
To be eligible for the Global Talent Stream, you must either:
- Have a job offer in one of the 12 qualifying occupations, such as software engineering, computer programming, or web development
- Be referred by one of the designated referral partners, such as a Canadian company or a provincial or municipal government
Work permits under the Global Talent Stream can be processed in as little as two weeks, making it a fast-track option for tech workers and their employers.
Agricultural Workers
Canada’s agricultural sector relies heavily on foreign workers, particularly for seasonal jobs like harvesting and processing. The Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP) allows Canadian employers to hire temporary foreign workers from Mexico and Caribbean countries for up to eight months per year to fill labour shortages.
To participate in the SAWP, employers must meet certain requirements, such as providing free housing and transportation for workers, and paying them the same wage as Canadian workers in the same occupation. Workers must also meet specific criteria, such as having agricultural experience and passing a medical exam.
Another option for agricultural workers is the Agricultural Stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, which allows employers to hire foreign workers for up to two years for jobs in primary agriculture, food processing, and other related sectors.
Caregivers
Caregivers, such as nannies and home support workers, have a unique pathway to getting sponsored to work in Canada through the Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot.
Under these pilot programs, foreign caregivers can get a work permit to work in Canada if they:
- Have a job offer from a Canadian employer
- Meet the language and education requirements for the occupation
- Pass a criminal background check and medical exam
After working in Canada for two years, caregivers may be eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Caregiver Program.
Impact of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the process of getting sponsored to work in Canada. While some of these impacts are temporary, others may have longer-lasting effects.
Travel Restrictions
During the height of the pandemic, Canada implemented travel restrictions that limited the entry of foreign nationals, including work permit holders. Only essential workers, such as those in healthcare and food supply, were exempt from these restrictions.
As of 2023, most of these travel restrictions have been lifted, but there may still be some public health measures in place, such as quarantine requirements for certain travelers. It’s important to check the latest government guidelines before making any travel plans.
Processing Delays
The pandemic has also led to processing delays for work permit applications, as IRCC and other government agencies have had to adapt to remote work and reduced capacity. As of 2023, processing times for some applications may still be longer than usual.
If you are applying for a work permit, it’s a good idea to apply as early as possible and be prepared for potential delays. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
Labour Market Impacts
The pandemic has also had significant impacts on the Canadian labour market, with some industries experiencing layoffs and others facing increased demand for workers. This has affected the ability of some employers to sponsor foreign workers, as they may not be able to demonstrate a labour shortage or may not have the financial resources to go through the LMIA process.
On the other hand, some industries, such as healthcare and technology, have seen increased demand for foreign workers due to the pandemic. This has led to some temporary measures, such as expedited processing for certain occupations, to help address labour shortages.
As the economy continues to recover from the pandemic, it’s important to stay informed about the latest labour market trends and how they may affect your ability to get sponsored to work in Canada.
1. What is the difference between a work permit and a job offer?
A job offer is a formal invitation from a Canadian employer to work for them in a specific position. A work permit is a legal document issued by IRCC that allows a foreign national to work in Canada for a specified period of time. In most cases, you need a job offer before you can apply for a work permit.
2. How long does it take to get a work permit?
The processing time for a work permit application varies depending on the type of permit, the country of application, and the individual circumstances of the applicant. As of 2023, the average processing time for a work permit application submitted outside of Canada is around 14 weeks, but some applications may take longer. You can check the current processing times on the IRCC website.
3. Can I apply for a work permit without a job offer?
In most cases, you need a valid job offer from a Canadian employer to apply for a work permit. However, there are some exceptions, such as:
Open work permits for international students who have graduated from a Canadian post-secondary institution
Open work permits for spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students
Work permits under international agreements, such as NAFTA or CETA
4. Can I bring my family with me if I get sponsored to work in Canada?
If you have a valid work permit and your job is skilled (NOC skill level 0, A, or B), you may be eligible to bring your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children with you to Canada. Your spouse or partner may be eligible for an open work permit, which allows them to work for any employer in Canada, while your children can attend school.
5. What happens if I lose my job while on a work permit?
If you lose your job while on an employer-specific work permit, you may be able to find a new employer and apply for a new work permit. However, you must do this before your current work permit expires, or you may be required to leave Canada. If you are on an open work permit, you can work for any employer, so losing your job does not necessarily affect your status.
6. Can I apply for permanent residence while on a work permit?
Yes, many foreign workers in Canada are eligible to apply for permanent residence after gaining Canadian work experience. The most common pathway is the Canadian Experience Class, which requires at least one year of skilled work experience in Canada. Other options include the Provincial Nominee Program and the Quebec Experience Class.
7. What is the employer’s role in the work permit application process?
The employer plays a critical role in the work permit application process, as they are responsible for obtaining a positive LMIA (if required) and submitting an offer of employment through the Employer Portal. They must also provide the foreign worker with a detailed job offer letter and any necessary supporting documents. Employers are also responsible for ensuring that the foreign worker has the necessary qualifications and experience for the job.
8. Can I change employers while on a work permit?
If you are on an employer-specific work permit, you can only work for the employer specified on your permit. If you want to change employers, you must apply for a new work permit with a new LMIA (if required) from your new employer. If you are on an open work permit, you can work for any employer without needing to apply for a new permit.
