If you’re looking to move to Canada and search for work, the first thing you need to do before applying to jobs in Canada is to apply for a work visa that allows you to legally reside in the country. For some nationalities, this process can be done online in just 5 minutes, making it quick and easy to get started on your new life as an ex-pat in Canada. If you have any questions regarding the application process or are looking for more information on living and working in Canada, don’t hesitate to contact us here at The Residence Group where we’re happy to help!
What you will need
Fill in Canada Visa Application Form online. Pay a $CAD 110 Service Fee + $CAD 5.00 Anti-Fraud Fee. Attach a passport photo and copy of your Passport or travel document (if available). You will need to provide three personal references who have known you personally for at least 2 years.
Once you have completed and submitted your form, you will be provided with a Canada visa number. You can use your Canada visa number and attach your passport or travel document (if available) on any Canadian government agency website that requires proof of identity.
Complete the online application form
The first step in applying for a Canadian work visa is completing an online application form. This process only takes a few minutes and requires you to provide your basic information along with details about your intended job, financial means, education, and any applicable experience. Once complete, it will take no more than five business days for you to receive confirmation of your submission via email. You’ll then be asked to print out a copy of all relevant documents so you can submit them with your visa application package.
Pass a security check
Many people are unaware that Canadian businesses seeking to hire foreign nationals must first be registered with and approved by, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). The actual application process is online and free of charge. To begin your registration, fill out a Preliminary Assessment form on IRCC’s website. If you meet all necessary requirements and have already obtained an LMIA from your prospective employer, you can then use IRCC’s online system to apply for a work permit.
Provide an offer of employment
Once you’ve contacted your potential employer and discussed what you’ll be doing, you can work out exactly how much you’ll be paid. You should already have a job offer, but it’s worth reiterating that if you don’t, now is not a good time to apply for an LMIA. Unless your Canadian employer has offered a legitimate job in Canada at above minimum wage (before tax), chances are they won’t get your application approved.
Submit your application package
Once you’ve determined where in Canada you want to live and work, it’s time to apply for a visa. The best way to do so is by submitting your application package online. It’s as simple as filling out an online form with information about yourself, your trip, and how you plan on financially supporting yourself during your stay.
Wait while your application is reviewed
The LMIA process is designed to help Canadian employers recruit foreign workers only when qualified Canadian citizens or permanent residents are not available. While it can be frustrating waiting for your application to be reviewed, it’s important you don’t do anything that could jeopardize your chances of getting an LMIA. If you have been issued a valid work permit based on a positive LMIA and change jobs before receiving a new work permit in Canada, it may affect your ability to get another one in future years.
Receive a decision from IRCC
In most cases, you will receive an email response from IRCC. You can check your application status online or call IRCC’s Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100 (information is available in both English and French). The officer will let you know if your application has been approved, refused or if additional information is required. Your case may be referred back to an embassy or visa office overseas.
Receive your LMIA certificate, if required
After your job offer has been made and you’ve arrived in Canada, it’s time to receive your Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) certificate. An LMIA is required if you have a job offer from a Canadian employer and need a work permit or visa. If you applied online, you should receive an email notifying you when your certificate is ready, typically within four weeks of applying.