working in canada

Most people need a work permit to work in Canada. If you need a work permit, you may be eligible for either an

  • employer-specific work permit or

  • open work permit which allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with just a few exceptions..

Eligibility requirements if you apply from outside Canada

Anyone can apply before they enter Canada. However, there may be visa office requirements that you need to meet depending on what country or territory you’re applying from. To get assistance, book a consultation.

Eligibility requirements if you apply from inside Canada

You may be qualified for a work permit from inside Canada if

  • you have a valid study or work permit;

  • your spouse, common-law partner or parents have a valid study or work permit;

  • you’re eligible for a post-graduation work permit and your study permit is still valid;

  • you have a temporary resident permit that is valid for six months or more;

  • you’re waiting on a decision on an application for permanent residence from inside Canada;

  • you made a claim for refugee protection;

  • you’ve been recognized as a convention refugee or protected person by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada;

  • you’re allowed to work in Canada without a work permit but you need a work permit to work in a different job (this does not apply to business visitors); or

  • you’re a trader, investor, intra-company transferee or professional under the Canada – United States – Mexico Agreement (CUSMA)