WORK VISA

In almost all cases foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada. These steps must be followed before you apply for a work permit:

An employer must first offer you a job.
Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) must normally provide a labour market opinion or 'confirmation' of your job offer. However, some some types of work are exempt from this process.
After HRDC confirms that a foreign national may fill the job, you apply to CIC for your work permit.
The requirements and consideration of the application are as follows:

Do you need a Work Permit? Foreign workers may do some jobs in Canada without a permit. Check to see if your work is exempt.

The Job Offer: You must be offered a job in Canada before you apply for your work permit. Learn more about what your employer must do.

Where to Apply: Apply at a visa office at a Canadian embassy, high commission or consulate. You can apply for a permit when you arrive in Canada if you are a permanent resident or citizen of a neighboring country (for example: the U.S.A.). You can apply from within Canada or at the Canadian border only under special circumstances.

Qualifying for a Work Permit: To qualify for a work permit, you must meet the requirements for temporary residence as well as the requirements for issuance of a work permit. You do not have to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa when you apply for your work permit. It is included in your work permit application.

Spouses and Dependents: Spouses (wife, husband or common-law partner) and dependents who come to Canada with a foreign worker need to have their own work permit if they want to work in Canada. In many cases, you may apply for a work permit without having to obtain an HRDC job confirmation. Learn more about the Spousal Program here.

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Chapter FW 1 Foreign Worker Manual
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