Navigating international employment opportunities can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to legal requirements. For professionals looking to work in Canada, understanding the country’s work visa system is a crucial first step. This guide breaks down the various types of work permits, eligibility requirements, and how Employer of Record (EOR) providers can simplify the process.
What does legal work authorization in Canada mean?
Legal work authorization in Canada refers to the official permission granted by the Canadian government that allows a foreign national to work in the country for a specified period. Without a valid work permit, foreign workers cannot legally take up employment in Canada, even if they have a job offer.
Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) oversees the authorization process, and its rules vary based on an individual’s nationality, type of employment, and employer.
Understanding Canada’s work visa system
Canada offers a well-structured and highly regulated work visa system to address labor shortages, support economic growth, and protect foreign workers. The system is divided into two primary types of work permits: employer-specific permits and open work permits. The appropriate option depends on the individual’s job offer, relationship to their employer, and overall eligibility.
Types of work permits in Canada
Employer-specific work permits
An employer-specific work permit is tied to a specific job, employer, and location. In most cases, the employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), demonstrating that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to fill the role. Once approved, the worker can apply for a work permit that allows them to work only for that employer.
Open work permits
Open work permits are not tied to a specific employer and allow the holder to work for most Canadian employers. These are generally granted to individuals in particular situations, such as international students who graduated from a Canadian institution, spouses of skilled workers, or applicants awaiting permanent residence under humanitarian programs. The IRCC outlines these criteria in more detail.
Eligibility requirements for Canada work permits
General eligibility criteria
To qualify for a work permit in Canada, foreign nationals typically must:
- Prove they intend to leave Canada when their permit expires
- Show proof of sufficient funds
- Have no criminal record (a background check may be required)
- Be in good health (a medical exam may be required)
- Not pose a security risk to Canada
The IRCC’s official eligibility page provides a complete list of requirements.
Specific requirements for U.S. citizens
Thanks to agreements under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), U.S. citizens often face fewer barriers when applying for a Canadian work permit. Under the agreement, professionals in certain occupations may be eligible for a streamlined work permit process without an LMIA. This includes roles in engineering, science, finance, and more. Details can be found through the USMCA section on Canada’s immigration site.
The application process for a Canadian work visa
Step-by-step guide to applying
- Determine the type of work permit needed (employer-specific or open)
- Secure a job offer, if applicable
- Gather the necessary documents (see below)
- Submit an online or paper application through the IRCC portal
- Pay the required fees
- Attend a biometrics appointment, if required
- Wait for the IRCC to process and approve the application
Required documents and procedures
Applicants typically need to provide:
- A valid passport
- Proof of job offer (employment letter, contract)
- LMIA (if required)
- Proof of relationship (for open permits tied to spouses)
- Biometrics and medical exam results
Some applicants may also be required to appear for an interview or submit additional information. Complete documentation requirements can be found on the IRCC work permit checklist.
Processing time and approval
Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence, type of work permit, and whether biometrics or a medical exam is required. As of early 2025, most applications are processed within 60-120 days. However, some priority occupations may qualify for expedited processing.
Frequently asked questions
Is it difficult to get a work visa in Canada?
The difficulty level depends on the applicant’s qualifications, job offer, and industry. In-demand roles in healthcare, engineering, and tech often have higher approval rates due to Canada’s labor shortages in those fields.
Can I get a Canadian work permit without a job offer?
In some cases, yes. Open work permits allow specific individuals to apply without a job offer, particularly spouses of skilled workers, international graduates, or applicants under humanitarian programs.
What is the difference between a work visa and a work permit in Canada?
In Canada, a work permit is the official document that authorizes foreign nationals to work, while a visa (if required) allows them to enter the country. Some individuals need both, depending on their nationality.
How long does the visa process take?
Most work permit applications take 2-4 months, although times vary. Applicants can check up-to-date timelines on the IRCC’s processing time tool.
Utilizing EOR providers
What is an EOR provider?
An Employer of Record (EOR) is a third-party organization that takes on the legal responsibilities of employing workers in a foreign country. This includes payroll, tax compliance, benefits administration, and—critically—work authorization.
How EOR providers can facilitate work authorization in Canada
Partnering with an EOR simplifies the employment process by helping businesses:
- Onboard talent quickly without setting up a local entity
- Navigate complex immigration and labor laws
- Secure work permits and visas for foreign talent
By managing compliance and documentation, EORs enable companies to hire talent in Canada efficiently and legally. This is especially helpful for companies unfamiliar with Canadian employment law or looking to scale quickly.
How Velocity Global can help
Velocity Global helps companies and talent easily navigate the complexities of international hiring. Through its Employer of Record solution, businesses can hire and onboard professionals in Canada without establishing a local entity. From managing compliance and payroll to securing work permits, Velocity Global simplifies the entire process.
As more companies seek to build borderless teams, Velocity Global provides the tools, expertise, and local knowledge necessary to scale globally—without the red tape. Learn more about how Velocity Global enables seamless international hiring in Canada and supports global expansion every step of the way.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for general informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. For personalized guidance, consult an immigration lawyer or local legal advisor.
Topics:
Immigration + Relocation
