With the recent announcement stating that visitors can no longer apply for work permits from inside Canada, many people have wondered who can still apply for work permits inside Canada or at the port of entry (POE).
In this post, we’ll discuss how to apply for a work permit at the port of entry(POE) in Canada and highlight the additional criteria for specific applicant categories.
Who can apply from Inside Canada?
You may only apply for a work permit from within Canada if you meet one of the following criteria:
Valid Permit Holders: You have a valid study or work permit.
Family Members: Your spouse, common-law partner, or parent has a valid study or work permit.
Post-Graduation Eligibility: You're eligible for a post-graduation work permit and your study permit is still valid.
Temporary Resident Permit Holders: You or your spouse, common-law partner, or parent has a temporary resident permit valid for 6 months or more.
Permanent Residence Applicants: You're in Canada waiting for a decision on an application for permanent residence (spouse and common-law partner in Canada class or overseas family class, temporary resident permit holder class).
Refugee Claimants: You made or will make a claim for refugee protection.
Recognized Refugees: You've been recognized as a convention refugee or protected person by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
Changing Jobs: You're allowed to work in Canada without a work permit, but need one to work in a different job (does not apply to business visitors).
CUSMA Applicants: You're a trader, investor, intra-company transferee, or professional under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA).
Who Can Apply For a Work Permit at a Port of Entry (POE)
Under certain circumstances, you can apply directly for your work permit at the port of entry (POE). To do this, you must meet the following conditions:
Visa-Exempt Country: You must be from a visa-exempt country.
eTA or Visa-Free: You must be eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or allowed to travel without a visitor visa.
Specific Work Permit Criteria: You must meet other criteria depending on whether you’re applying for an open or employer-specific work permit.
You cannot apply at a POE if:
You require a visitor visa.
You are a citizen of one of the restricted countries listed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
You are an International Experience Canada (IEC) applicant who is not a citizen or permanent resident of the U.S.
You are applying under the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program.
You are applying for a post-graduation work permit.
Take Note!
In a recent announcement, the Government of Canada disclosed actions to reduce employers' reliance on the TFW Program. These changes will be implemented, effective September 26, 2024.
Get Expert Assistance
While the process of securing a work permit in Canada can be intricate, understanding the basics of LMIA, work permit types, and eligibility criteria is essential for a successful application. Schedule a call with our consultants if you have secured job offers in Canada and need assistance with your Canada work permit application process.
If you have any questions or require guidance regarding your application, feel free to contact us to discuss and explore the options that will be right for you to migrate to Canada.
I need a job as housekeeping