What is a work permit?
A work permit is a Canadian visa that grants a foreign national the right to work in Canada on a temporary basis. However, obtaining a work visa does not mean gaining permanent resident status. The number and types of work visas granted by the Canadian government depend on fluctuating labour demand and availability of local workforce.
Are work permits granted based on point-based system?
Other types of visas require applicants to meet a point threshold, but this is not the case with Canadian work permits. It is the sponsorship of a Canadian employer that matters most in the pre-approval of a work visa.
Can a work visa be upgraded or changed to another immigration status?
Yes. Alien workers can change their immigration status during the lifetime of their work permit.
Can the principal visa holder bring his dependents to Canada?
Marriage and spouse immigration are allowed under this type of Canadian visa; however, dependents need to apply for the work visa in their own capacity in order to be legally employed in Canada.
How should I apply for a Canadian visa?
Once the Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC) confirms job vacancies for foreign nationals, you may begin requesting a Canadian visa from the Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC). Jobs based in Quebec also require visa approval from the provincial immigration authority.
Are there any professions who are exempted from work permits?
Yes. Such professions include aircraft inspectors, reporters, onboard airline personnel, government representatives and expert witnesses.