Canada’s growing economy offers incredible career opportunities for skilled individuals from around the world. A Canadian Work Permit is your key to accessing this dynamic job market. However, the rules and requirements can be complex, involving both the foreign worker and the Canadian employer.
Whether you are an individual with a Canadian job offer or a Calgary-based company looking to hire foreign talent, Wellspring Immigration provides expert guidance. We streamline the application process, ensuring all requirements are met for a timely and successful outcome.
Please Note: We are an immigration consultancy and do not provide job search or recruitment services. Our role begins once a job offer has been made. For those seeking employment, we recommend official resources like the Government of Canada’s Job Bank.
Employer-Specific Work Permits (LMIA-Based)
For most positions, a Canadian employer must first prove that there is a need to hire a foreign worker because no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job. This is done through a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- For Employers: The LMIA process is detailed and requires extensive documentation. We assist Canadian employers in preparing and submitting strong LMIA applications to Service Canada, ensuring you meet all advertising and recruitment requirements.
- For Workers: Once a positive LMIA is issued, we help you prepare and submit your work permit application, linking it to your employer’s specific offer of employment number.
Open Work Permits
An Open Work Permit allows you to work for nearly any employer in Canada. This provides incredible flexibility but is only available in specific situations. You may be eligible for an Open Work Permit if you are:
- A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Applicant: An eligible graduate from a Canadian Designated Learning Institution.
- A Spouse or Common-Law Partner: The partner of a skilled worker, an international student, or a Canadian citizen/permanent resident applying for sponsorship from within Canada.
- A Participant in a Special Program: Such as the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.
We can assess your unique situation to determine if you qualify for an Open Work Permit and guide you through the specific application process.
Work Permit Extensions & Status Maintenance
If you are already in Canada, it is crucial to maintain your legal status. If your work permit is nearing its expiry, you must apply to extend it before it expires. Applying for an extension before your current permit expires allows you to continue working under “maintained status” while you await a decision. We manage this critical process to ensure there is no interruption to your employment.
Ready to Start Your Career in Canada?
Navigating the work permit process is a critical step for your career or your business. Let our expertise be your advantage.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation for yourself or your prospective employee.
