Some temporary workers require a work permit and some do not. For some categories of workers, permits are approved more quickly.

The requirements and processing times depend on the sort of work you will do when you come to Canada.

Read the information under What you should know and Eligibility to apply to find out if you need a work permit or if you are in a special category where a work permit may not be necessary or is approved differently.

Remember, even if you do not need a work permit, you may need to meet other requirements. Read the information carefully.

There is a difference between coming to Canada as a business visitor and coming to Canada as a business person. For information about coming to Canada as a business visitor, go to Jobs that do not require a work permit. For information about coming to Canada as a business person, go to Special categories.

Learn about:

• What you should know
• Eligibility to apply
• Jobs that do not require a work permit (check for eligibility requirements)
• Special categories

How to Apply?

Remember that in most cases, you have to apply for a work permit from outside Canada. Your employer also has a role in the application process.

If you apply to work temporarily in Quebec, you must meet all the federal requirements and you must get a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (Certificate of acceptance) from the province.

       1. Check the application processing times.
       2. Obtain the necessary documents.
       3. Determine where you will submit your application.
       4. Determine if you need a passport and a temporary resident visa.
       5. Submit the application form.

Application Process

Once CIC has received your application for a work permit, they will start processing it.

Arriving

Find out about

• Presenting your documents
• Medical and health insurance and workers’ compensation in Canada
• Getting a social insurance number
• Your family members working in Canada
• Staying in Canada

Extending your stay

A work permit allows you to work in Canada temporarily.

If you want to stay in Canada for any of the following reasons after your work permit expires, you must apply to do so:

• your job is extended or changes
• you are offered a different job in Canada
• you want to live and work in Canada permanently
• you leave Canada and then want to re-enter

If you have applied to extend your status and an emergency situation requires you to travel outside Canada before you get your new permit, please contact the Call Center to ensure you will be able to return to Canada.