Want to Work in Canada and Gain Valuable Experience? You’re in the Right Place!

Canada offers numerous work opportunities across various industries, with healthcare and construction being among the most in-demand sectors. By filling labor shortage gaps with temporary workers, Canadian employers ensure their organizations run smoothly and efficiently.

There are several types of work permits available; each tailored to different needs and circumstances. Here’s a breakdown of the most common types:

Employer-Specific Work Permit (Closed Work Permit)

Congratulations! If you’ve been offered a job with a contract for a set period, you’re on the path to working in Canada.

A closed work permit allows you to work exclusively for the specific employer who hired you. This permit is tied to the job, employer, and location. Your employer will provide you with a job offer, which you must submit along with your work permit application.

Important Note: If you’re bringing your spouse, they may be eligible for an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada.

Open Work Permit

An open work permit gives you the flexibility to work for any employer in Canada, with a few exceptions. Unlike employer-specific work permits that require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), open work permits don’t restrict you to a particular job, employer, or location.

The main advantage of an open work permit is the freedom to choose your occupation and employer anywhere in Canada.

Work Holiday Visa

The Work Holiday Visa is an open work permit available to individuals aged 18 to 35 from countries that have a bilateral youth mobility agreement with Canada. This visa allows young adults to work and travel in Canada while experiencing Canadian culture.

Eligibility depends on your country of citizenship and age. This program provides a unique opportunity for youth to gain valuable work experience in Canada while enjoying the freedom to explore the country.

Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)

If you’re an international student who has completed an eligible Canadian post-secondary program, you may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

A PGWP allows you to work for any employer in Canada, and the work experience you gain can help you with your application for Canadian permanent residence.

New in November 2024: PGWPs will only be issued to graduates from specific fields of study, including:

• • Agriculture and Agri-food
  • Healthcare
  • Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
  • Trade
  • Transport

CUSMA Work Permit (formerly NAFTA)

Under the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA), eligible U.S. and Mexican nationals can obtain Canadian work permits without needing an LMIA, provided they work in specific occupations.

The CUSMA work permit applies to categories such as:

• Professionals
• Intra-company transferees
• Investors and traders
• Business visitors

Note: Mexican nationals will require a temporary resident visa in addition to the work permit.

Let Us Help You with the Process

At DIVERSA, we specialize in guiding individuals through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program and work permit applications. Whether you’re applying for a closed work permit, helping your spouse obtain an open work permit, or navigating the CUSMA work permit process, we’re here to ensure the application process is smooth, straightforward, and hassle-free.