WORK PERMIT

A Work Permit is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to legally work in Canada for a specified period. Whether you're an international student seeking part-time employment, a skilled professional pursuing career opportunities, or a temporary worker recruited by a Canadian employer, obtaining a work permit is often a crucial step in your Canadian immigration journey. At Litmus Immigration Services Inc., we specialize in assisting individuals and employers with navigating the complexities of work permit applications and ensuring compliance with Canadian immigration regulations.

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Types of Work Permits:

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1. Open Work Permit: An Open Work Permit allows foreign nationals to work for any employer in Canada, excluding certain restricted occupations or industries. Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers, international students, and individuals awaiting the processing of their permanent residency application may be eligible for an Open Work Permit.

2. Employer-specific Work Permit: An Employer-specific Work Permit, also known as a Closed Work Permit, authorizes foreign nationals to work for a specific Canadian employer under specified terms and conditions. This type of work permit is typically tied to a specific job offer and requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or exemption, demonstrating that the employer has made efforts to recruit Canadian workers but has been unable to fill the position locally.

3. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): The PGWP allows international students who have graduated from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions to gain valuable work experience in Canada. The permit is usually valid for up to three years, depending on the duration of the study program completed, and enables graduates to work for any employer in Canada.

4. International Mobility Program (IMP) Work Permits: Under the IMP, certain foreign nationals may be eligible for work permits without the need for an LMIA. This includes individuals covered under international agreements, such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), intra-company transferees, and participants in youth exchange programs.

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Applying for a Work Permit:

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• Determine Eligibility: Assess your eligibility for a work permit based on factors such as your intended occupation, employer, and duration of stay in Canada.

• Obtain Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer, if required, and ensure that the employer complies with LMIA requirements or qualifies for an LMIA exemption.

• Gather Documentation: Prepare the necessary documentation, including a valid passport, proof of job offer, LMIA (if applicable), educational credentials, and any additional supporting documents.

• Submit Application: Submit your work permit application online or through a Visa Application Centre (VAC) and pay the required processing fees.

• Await Decision: Wait for IRCC to process your application and make a decision on your eligibility for a work permit. Processing times may vary depending on the type of work permit and your country of residence.

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Our team at Litmus Immigration Services Inc. is dedicated to assisting individuals and employers with navigating the intricacies of work permit applications and ensuring compliance with Canadian immigration laws. Contact us today to learn more about your options for obtaining a work permit and pursuing your career goals in Canada!

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