Are you dreaming of working in a foreign land that offers unparalleled opportunities and a high quality of life? Look no further than Canada, a country known for its welcoming environment, abundant natural resources, and thriving economy. Securing a work visa for Canada might seem like a daunting task, but with the right guidance and support, your dream of working in Canada can become a reality.
Reasons to Choose a Canada Work Visa:
- Over 1 million job vacancies are available in Canada.
- More than 600,000 Canada work permits have been issued.
- Benefit from relaxed work policies designed for skilled workers.
- Work up to 40 hours per week.
- Enjoy 25 paid leaves every year.
- Experience an average increase of 7.5% in hourly wages.
Understanding the Canadian Work Visa Process
Understanding the significance of a work visa and work permit is essential before delving into the complexities of the Canadian work visa application process. An employment visa is an official authorization that permits someone to work in Canada for a set period. Conversely, a work permit is the official document that grants permission to work inside the nation’s borders. When taken as a whole, these documents serve as proof of one’s job eligibility as well as compliance with the legal framework that governs labor practices in Canada. As such, they are essential to a smooth and legal hiring process there. Seeking assistance from the best consultancy in ahmedabad for canada can further streamline the application process and provide invaluable guidance.

Eligibility Criteria for Canadian Work Permit Visa
- A legitimate job offer from an employer who has been approved by the LMIA
- Evidence of funds to cover other costs and needs
Even if you do not yet have a company job offer, you can still apply for a Canada Work visa. Spousal Open Work Permits are available if your spouse is employed or pursuing education in Canada. You can go to Canada even in the absence of a job offer, and while there, you can work for legitimate LMIA- or non-LMIA-approved employers.
Different Types of Canadian Work Permits
In Canada, there exist two primary categories of work permits:
1. Open Work Permit
An open work permit provides immigrants the freedom to work for any employer in Canada, irrespective of whether they meet specific Canadian work permit requirements.
Who Can Apply for an Open Work Permit?
Individuals eligible for this type of permit include:
- International students graduating from a designated learning institution (DLI) are eligible for the PGWP, a Canada work permit for students (Post Graduation Work Permit).
- Those who have applied for Permanent Residence Canada.
- Temporary resident permit holders (TRV).
- Spouses or common-law partners of international students or skilled workers eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit Visa (SOWP).
These Canada Work Permits offer flexibility with a reasonable processing time of 38 weeks.
2.Closed work permits or employer-specific work permits
As the name suggests, an employer-specific Canada job work permit confines the employee to work only for the specified employer. This type of work permit for Canada requires a job offer from a Canadian Employer with LMIA approval.
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
The Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) holds a significant role in the Canadian work permit process. It assesses how hiring a foreign worker will affect the labour market in Canada. Some streams mandate an LMIA, while others may be exempt.
LMIA Categories
Various streams require an LMIA work permit:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
- LMIA Work Permit
- Facilitated LMIA
- Global Talent Stream
TFWP – Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Employers in Canada can recruit foreign citizens with a Canada visa under the TFWP, in partnership with ESDC and IRCC, addressing labor shortages and accessing international talent.
- Global Talent Stream: The Global Talent Stream, a two-year pilot program, facilitates rapid recruitment of highly skilled foreign nationals by Canadian employers. It’s a swift immigration pathway via work visas.
- High-Wage Workers: Canadian employers can engage foreign nationals earning above the median hourly wage of their province or territory through this stream of TFWP. The process begins with applying for LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment).
- Low-Wage Workers: For positions paying below the median hourly wage, employers should follow this TFWP stream, initiating with an LMIA application.
- Foreign Agricultural Workers: Employers seeking temporary foreign workers for agriculture-related roles should utilise this stream.
- In-Home Caregivers: Designed for families needing caregivers, this stream allows hiring temporary foreign workers through Canada work permits, catering to children, seniors, or individuals with medical needs.
- Foreign Academics: This stream focuses on enhancing Canada’s education quality and global academic competitiveness, partnering with IRCC and ESDC.
Application Process for Canadian Work Permits
Starting a job search in Canada means figuring out the complexities of the Canada Work Permit Process, which is a methodical approach to finding a job there.
Step 1: Determine Your NOC Code
Identify your National Occupational Classification (NOC) code to ascertain eligibility for immigration programs.
Step 2: Choose the Right Program
Research and select the appropriate immigration program, like Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), or specific streams such as the Atlantic Immigration Pilot.
Step 3: Secure a Job Offer
Obtain a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, potentially requiring a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from ESDC to validate the need for a foreign worker. Consider seeking assistance from experienced canada work visa consultants in ahmedabad to navigate through the job offer and LMIA process effectively.

Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Compile essential documents, including identification, educational certificates, work experience proofs, language test results, and a job offer letter.
Step 5: Apply for Work Visa
Create an online profile detailing your skills, work history, education, language proficiency, and relevant details for a work permit application.
Step 6: Submit Application
Complete the online application form and submit all documents via the immigration portal. Pay applicable fees.
Step 7: Biometrics and Medical Exam
Attend a biometrics appointment and undergo a medical examination by an approved physician.
Step 8: Await Processing
Be patient during the processing period, which varies depending on the permit type and immigration program.
Step 9: Receive Work Permit
Upon approval, receive your Canada Work Permit, reviewing details such as job type, locations, and duration.
Step 10: Settle and Explore PR
Arrive in Canada as per permit details and consider pathways to permanent residency through programs like Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs.
Processing Time and Success Rate
The processing time for Canadian work visa applications varies depending on various factors. On average, it may take about 8 weeks for your application to be processed. However, with our expertise and attention to detail, we strive to expedite the process and ensure a favorable outcome for our clients. The success rate for work permit/LMIA applications is approximately 65 – 75%, but with First Step Immigration by your side, you can rest assured knowing that your application is in good hands.
Conclusion
Securing a Canadian work visa is a significant milestone in your career journey, and at First Step Immigration, we are here to make that journey as smooth and seamless as possible. With our expertise, dedication, and personalised approach, we have helped countless individuals realise their dream of working in Canada. So why wait? Contact First Step Immigration today and take the first step towards a brighter future in Canada.