To work in Canada you must, in most cases, obtain a Temporary Work Permit before coming to work in Canada. You cannot, in general, obtain a Work Permit after arriving in Canada.

To obtain a Temporary Work Permit a qualified Canadian employer must normally apply to Service Canada for permission to hire a Foreign Worker. The employer must prove that no Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident can be found that would qualify for the position being offered.

Certain high demand sectors may be exempt from this requirement. Currently Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia have designated lists of occupations in high demand.

Spouses of students on Study Permits may obtain open Work Permits once settled in Canada as long as their spouse is making studying their full time occupation.

Live-in Caregivers must also apply outside Canada for a Work Permit once Service Canada approves the application of an employer in Canada. Please click on the Caregivers link on the left hand column for further information.

If you are an employer seeking foreign workers please click on the Employers link on the left hand column for further information.

If you are a foreign worker seeking an employer please click on the Job Seekers link on the left hand column for further information.

Canada-Global assists with all HRSDC applications and applications for Work Permits.