Canada continues to be one of the world’s most preferred destinations for skilled professionals seeking
global career opportunities, high living standards, and a pathway to permanent residency.
To work legally in Canada, most foreign nationals must obtain a Canadian Work Permit, commonly
issued based on a valid job offer and LMIA approval.

What Is a Canada Work Visa?

A Canada Work Visa (Work Permit) allows foreign nationals to work in Canada temporarily. In most cases:
• You must secure a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
• The employer must obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social
Development Canada (ESDC), confirming no eligible Canadian was available for the role.
A Canadian work permit can also be a stepping stone to Permanent Residency (PR).

Who Is Eligible to Work in Canada?

Foreign nationals can work in Canada if they meet the following:
1. Valid Job Offer (Most Cases)
• A written job offer or employment contract from a Canadian employer.
• Job offer supported by a positive LMIA issued by ESDC.
2. LMIA-Exempt Pathways
Some categories do not require an LMIA or a job offer, including:
• International students graduating from Designated Learning Institutions (PGWP)
• Spouses of international students or skilled workers
• Spouses of PR applicants
• Applicants under the International Mobility Program (IMP)
• Some intra-company transfers, youth mobility programs, etc.
3. General Eligibility Conditions

Applicants must also:

• Prove intent to leave Canada when the permit expires
• Demonstrate sufficient funds to support themselves and dependents
• Have no criminal record (PCC required)
• Have no medical inadmissibility
• Intend to work only for eligible employers
• Provide any documents requested by the visa officer

Jobs That Do NOT Require a Work Permit in Canada

Certain occupations are exempt from the work permit requirement. Examples include:
• Athletes or coaches
• Aviation accident investigators
• Business visitors
• Civil aviation inspectors
• Clergy
• Convention organizers
• Crew members
• Emergency service providers
• Examiners & evaluators
• Expert witnesses
• Family members of foreign representatives
• Foreign government officers
• Healthcare students
• Judges, referees, officials
• Military personnel
• News reporters, film/media crews

Types of Canada Work Permits

Canada offers several work permit streams depending on your job type and employer requirements.
1. LMIA-Based Work Permits
• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
• High-wage workers
• Low-wage workers
• Foreign agricultural workers
• In-home caregivers
• Foreign academics
• Global Talent Stream (GTS) – Fast-track for tech and specialized skills
• Facilitated LMIA (Quebec)
2. LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (IMP)
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
• Spousal open work permits
• Intra-company transfers
• Youth mobility programs
• International agreements (e.g., CUSMA)
Many work permit holders later apply for Canada PR through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee
Programs.

How to Get a Job in Canada from India?

1. Build a Canadian-Style Resume
• Tailor your resume for each job role
• Include measurable achievements
• Use job-specific keywords
• Follow Canadian resume format (no photos, no marital/personal details)
2. Use Safe & Trusted Job Portals
Avoid fake job offers. Use only verified sources such as:
• Job Bank Canada
• Indeed Canada
• LinkedIn
• CanadaJobs.com
Make sure employers are legitimate before proceeding.
3. Build a Strong Professional Network

Networking helps in:

• Unadvertised job market opportunities
• Getting referrals
• Connecting with Canadian professionals
You can begin networking even before moving to Canada.
Documents Required for a Canada Work Permit

You must prepare the following:

• Passport (valid for minimum 6 months)
• Two recent passport-sized photos
• Valid job offer letter
• LMIA document (if applicable)
• Proof you meet job requirements (skills, experience letters)
• Educational certificates
• Proof of funds (bank statements)
• Medical exam certificate (if required)
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
• Proof of fee payment
Additional documents may be requested by IRCC depending on your case.