tourist canada work

• How to – guides
• Skills List
• How to – guides
• North America
• South America

Work and Travel in Canada

Help us grow. share what you know about getting work in canada for travellers., volunteer and paid work opportunities in canada for travellers.

Canada sits close to the top of the world and is the second largest nation in the world. With cosmopolitan cities, incredible nature, and friendly people, it’s no surprise that a lot of people want to travel in Canada. But this is a first world country and it’s expensive to stay here, which is why work and travel in Canada is a fantastic option for people who want to dig beneath the surface of this country. The travel guides for Canada cover a great deal. But what they don’t cover is the array of volunteer opportunities in Canada. We’re going to cover some of the fantastic opportunities open to you in Canada. 1. Work on the Ski Slopes of the Canadian Rockies One of the most popular volunteering opportunities in Canada is to head to the Rockies in Alberta and to work on the ski slopes there. A huge number of Australians on working holiday visas choose this as their destination through the cold, snowy months. And even those who don’t work directly on the ski slopes will still find plenty of bar work in the area. Banff is one of the hubs of the skiing industry in Canada. 2. Teach Children How to Ride Horses Horse riding is a summer camp activity with a big following. Consider going over to Ontario during the summer and teach children how to ride horses upon the vast green plains. Even if you don’t have any prior experience riding horses, summer camps are always looking for staff who can help out with safety and keeping the kids entertained. You usually don’t need any prior experience or any qualifications to take on work at a summer camp. 3. Working in Hostels Unlike the US, Canada does have a booming backpacking community. Hostels have sprung up across both the Eastern and Western provinces of the country. Offer your services volunteering in a hostel and get free accommodation. You may sometimes be paid a small amount or receive food. The work is relatively easy, with the majority of roles being restricted to cleaning and reception work.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR CANADA

Canada is a first world country and has one of the strongest border control regimes in the world. Thankfully, for EU citizens, Americans, and Mexicans you only need an onward flight and you’ll be given a visa varying from three months to six months. The majority of Western countries, including Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, will be allotted the full six months, however. Take note that US citizens are no longer able to cross the border with just a birth certificate or a driving license. All US citizens must now have a valid passport. For Russian, South African, and Chinese citizens they have to apply for a formal visa. The working holiday visa of Canada is known as the International Experience Canada programme. Only a certain number are allocated every year, but they’re still not particularly difficult to receive. The majority of countries eligible for this visa are EU countries, Australia, and New Zealand, as well as some of the first world Asian countries. The United States of America doesn’t have access to this programme. Generally, visas allow you to work and live in Canada for up to a year. Some countries, such as New Zealand, do have the option of staying past the one-year mark because of other working holiday agreements with those countries. Bear in mind that you will need to apply well in advance for the working holiday visa and you’ll be expected to either have a position established or proof of a certain amount of money/income.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN CANADA

Spring work.

Spring time in Canada marks the end of the winter time and the opening up of many tourist routes again. For example, the cruise ports in Vancouver begin offering work at this time of year. You may even be able to start certain conservation programmes throughout the northern part of the country.

SUMMER JOBS

Summer time is about the time you want to start looking into volunteering within summer camps. These are positioned throughout the whole country and are available in both rural and urban locations. The bulk of these camps are located in the east of the country, especially on the coast and in the provinces of Ontario and Quebec. However, you should make sure to apply for these positions well in advance. There are some short-term positions available, but it’s unwise to bank on these being available.

The autumn period will see more conservation programmes, but this is the time to start looking into bar and restaurant work. Tourist numbers are still high and competition for places is much lower. The major cities of Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer the highest chances of you finding work.

Winter time is the time to start hitting the ski slopes. There are ski slopes all over the country, but we recommend looking into Alberta and the Canadian Rockies. Most of the skiing industry here is centred on the picturesque town of Banff, where the slopes are mere minutes away with good public transport connections. You may also want to look into nearby Lake Louise and some of the other national parks in the area. There’s lots of seasonal winter work in the bars, restaurants, and hotels at this time of year.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN CANADA

Work and travel in Canada is a long standing tradition. Canada is also an extremely cosmopolitan country, with Toronto having the most diverse mix of expats in the world. Many young Canadians work and travel in other countries and so it’s no surprise for the locals to see young travellers doing the same. Canada has an extremely advanced working holiday programme and many businesses across the country rely on these volunteers and paid workers to help with business for just a few months of the year. You won’t have any issues living and working in Canada!

Recent Contributors

• Edited on Jan 15 2018 by Yara

If you have worked in Canada or live here. Instead of saying `That information is not right` Please sign up to Working Traveller by clicking here and update this page with your opinions on the subject and your views on what the barter points should be. If your a host, you will have a SEO link added to the page directly to your own web site so viewers can see who provided the information. If you are a traveller it will link to your profile.

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Northwest Territories
• Nova Scotia
• Prince Edward Island
• Saskatchewan

WORKING TRAVELLER LTD 27, Lonsdale Rd, Blackpool, FY1 6EE, UNITED KINGDOM

Work and travel the world using your skills to gain work experience and references for a good job back home

Log in with your credentials, forgot your details.

Work in Canada

Foreign workers, hire a temporary foreign worker, employment insurance, workplace standards, travel and work in canada as a youth, visit canada on business.

+1 647 945 7035

[email protected]

Work in Canada as a Visitor: Converting Tourist Visa to Work Permit

Home » Work In Canada » Work in Canada as a Visitor: Converting Tourist Visa to Work Permit

What if you find yourself wanting more than just a temporary visit? Fortunately, Canada offers a pathway for visitors to convert their tourist visas into work permits, allowing them to stay longer and contribute to the Canadian workforce.

In this article, we will explore the process of converting a tourist visa into a work permit in Canada.

Table of Contents

Visitor visa vs work permit: what’s the difference.

If you’re coming to Canada, you need to know about two important things: Visitor Visas and Work Permits. They’re like special permission slips that let you do different things while you’re in Canada.

A Visitor Visa, commonly referred to as a Tourist Visa, serves the primary purpose of allowing foreign individuals to enter Canada temporarily. Here are some key characteristics of a Visitor Visa:

Purpose: The primary purpose of a Visitor Visa is to facilitate tourism, family visits, or business meetings within Canada. It is not intended for employment or long-term stays for work-related activities.

Limited Duration: When issued, a Visitor Visa specifies the period for which an individual is authorized to stay in Canada. Typically, this duration ranges from a few weeks to several months, depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of Canadian immigration authorities.

Activities Allowed: Visitors on a Tourist Visa are expected to engage in non-work-related activities during their stay. This may include exploring Canada’s tourist attractions, visiting friends and family, or attending business meetings and conferences that do not involve employment.

No Employment: Holders of a Visitor Visa are strictly prohibited from engaging in any form of paid employment or business activities that generate income within Canada. This visa category is meant for leisure and non-economic purposes.

No Employer Sponsorship: Unlike a Work Permit, a Visitor Visa does not require sponsorship from a Canadian employer. It is typically obtained based on individual eligibility and intent to visit Canada for the approved reasons.

Extension: In some cases, individuals on a Visitor Visa may apply for an extension of their stay within Canada if they have valid reasons, such as family emergencies or other unforeseen circumstances. Extensions are subject to approval by immigration authorities.

A Work Permit is a document issued by the Canadian government that grants foreign nationals the legal authorization to work within the country for a specific employer and duration. Here are the key characteristics of a Work Permit:

Purpose: The primary purpose of a Work Permit is to allow foreign individuals to engage in employment or business activities in Canada. This could include various types of work, such as skilled employment, temporary labor, or business-related activities.

Specific Employer and Duration: A Work Permit specifies the employer for whom the individual is authorized to work and the duration of their employment. It is usually issued for a set period, often linked to the length of the job contract or the specific program under which it is granted.

Employment Allowed: Work Permit holders are legally permitted to engage in paid employment within Canada as specified in their permit. This allows them to earn income, contribute to the Canadian labor market, and support themselves during their stay.

Employer Sponsorship: To obtain a Work Permit, individuals typically need an offer of employment from a Canadian employer. In some cases, the employer may also need to obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the Canadian job market.

Renewal and Extensions: Work Permits can often be renewed or extended, especially if the employment contract is extended or the worker intends to take on a new job in Canada. The renewal process ensures continuous legal authorization to work in the country.

What is the Eligibility for a Work Permit?

To convert your visitor visa to a work permit, certain eligibility criteria must be met:

Visitor Status

You must be in Canada with valid visitor status when you apply for a work permit. Ensure your visitor visa has not expired, or you have maintained legal visitor status during your stay.

You need a job offer from a Canadian employer to apply for a work permit. The employer may need to obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in some cases, depending on the type of work.

Meet Health and Security Requirements

Applicants may need to undergo a medical examination and provide police clearance certificates, depending on their home country.

No Criminal Record

You must not have any criminal convictions or pose a security risk.

Intend to Leave

You must convince the immigration authorities that you plan to leave Canada once your work permit expires.

The Conversion Process: Step-By-Step Guide

Once you’ve made sure you meet the requirements, you can begin the process of turning your tourist visa into a work permit in Canada. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

The first step is to find a job in Canada. You need to get a job offer from a Canadian employer who is willing to hire you and support your application for a work permit. They should want you to work for them.

Some jobs require something called an LMIA, which stands for Labor Market Impact Assessment. Your employer needs to apply for this if your job needs it. The LMIA checks if hiring you will affect Canadian workers. If your job doesn’t need an LMIA, you can skip this step.

You’ll need to fill out a form to apply for your work permit. This form asks for information about you, your job, and your employer. You’ll also need to collect important documents like your job offer letter and any other papers they ask for.

After filling out the form and gathering your documents, you can send in your application. You can do this online or at a place called a Visa Application Center (VAC). You’ll also have to pay some money for the processing of your application.

Depending on where you come from and the kind of work you’ll do, you might need to give your fingerprints and have a medical checkup. This makes sure you’re healthy and safe to work in Canada.

After sending in your application, you’ll need to wait. The time it takes to process your application can vary, so be patient. Canadian officials will look at your application carefully.

If your work permit is approved, you’ll get a special letter called a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. This letter lets you enter Canada as a worker.

When you come to Canada, you’ll need to show your POE Letter and the approval for your work permit at the border. The people at the border, from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), might ask you some questions.

Once you’re in Canada and everything is in order, you can start working for your Canadian employer. Make sure to follow the rules and conditions mentioned in your work permit.

Remember, this process can seem a bit complex, but it’s all about making sure you’re eligible and following the steps carefully. It’s your pathway to working and living in Canada legally . You have the option to skip most of the process and let us help you process your application on your behalf!

Agency #1 for a fast and easy immigration to Canada.

The Company is an immigration services provider hub unaffiliated with the Canadian government.

+1 647 945 70 35

+1 647 945 7482 for (registered clients only)

Mailing address: 250 Yonge Street, Suite 2201, Toronto, CA M5B2L7

European Office: GLobal MA, Chervena stena str, flat 12, entr. B, Sofia, 1421, Bulgaria

Request a Consultation

• Budget Travel
• Cheap Flights
• Driving Canada
• Paved Roads
• Gravel Roads
• Train Travel
• Hitchhikers Guide
• Tourist Visa
• Working Holiday Visa
• Hospitality Work

Organic Farms

• Ranch Jobs in Canada
• Canada Topo Maps
• Climate & Weather
• Alaska Highway
• Thompson Okanagan
• Kootenay Rockies
• Cariboo Chilcotin
• Northern BC
• Alberta Rockies
• Southern Alberta
• 19 Best Alberta Towns
• Northwest Territories
• Saskatchewan
• Guided Tours in 2024
• Camper Rental
• Accommodation
• Travel Insurance
• Basic Packing List
• Campfire Cooking
• Campfire Recipes
• Multi Day Hikes
• Horseback Adventures
• National Parks Canada
• Small Town Rodeos
• Heliskiing Canada
• Canada Facts
• Wilderness Dangers
• Black Bears
• Grizzly Bears
• Polar Bears
• Canada With Kids
• Canadian Food
• Canadian Currency
• Outdoor Store
• Travel Resources
• Backcountry Newsletter

Work & Travel Canada, The Ultimate Guide

Combining work and travel in Canada is an excellent way to experience this big country. This Work and Travel Guide will show you how to do it.

Hospitality Industry

I know from experience that work and travel across Canada are the best and cheapest adventures ever!

You work for a while and then move on to new places. This teaches you to be flexible and adapt to the Canadian way of life. Working in Canada gives you the opportunity to be part of the local crowd and it helps you to travel on a  budget.

You don’t need to be rich to spend a year or two in Canada if you fund your trip with short-term jobs.

Work and Travel in Canada but you’re not sure where to start?

Coming to Canada with a   Working Holiday Visa  will give you plenty of opportunities and options on how to spend your time. To make it a great experience you have to know what to expect and where to find help if you need it.

Arriving in Canada with a  Work Visa Canada  is one thing, but you also want to be informed about the job situation and what steps you have to take to find work.

To find work in Canada is not easy,  therefore, therefore it’s good to come prepared!

You need a resume and references to apply for a job, as well as work experience for most jobs. Finding work takes time; expect to be busy job hunting and going to interviews.

Canada has plenty of job opportunities, especially in big cities

But I don’t want you to get stuck in Toronto or Vancouver for too long during your work and travel Canada trip. Remember what you came to Canada for. Hopefully, it was to see Canada’s backcountry and experience Canada’s rugged wilderness .

Travellers getting stranded in a big city happens much too often. They get casual work at Starbucks, or in an office or shopping mall during the day, and every night they go out and spend their money in a backpacker bar or pub. A couple of months down the road they have not more cash than what they came with, and they haven’t seen anything of Canada yet.

City life is not cheap , so beware of getting stuck there! Spend a couple of weeks and then move on. Canada has beautiful cities, but just don’t get stuck there. That’s not what work and travel in Canada is all about!

You might not be aware of the opportunities that exist outside the cities . Big cities don’t differ much from country to country. They make it easy for us to adapt and feel safe.

If you venture out of the main cities and visit small towns you will be surprised how many restaurants, motels, and stores, have Help Wanted signs in the windows.

When you leave the city you come to realize how different Canada is. Out in small towns and rural communities is where your real work and travel Canada adventure begins. Leave the cities behind, go and see CANADA, work AND travel Canada! Work will be as much of an experience as travel will be.

Do something different from what you do at home! Go and see the country, meet the country folks, work, and have fun doing it, it’s worth it.

What Kind Of Jobs Are Available

There are plenty of job opportunities for travellers in Canada but sometimes they are not easy to find. Mastering the English language helps. If your English language skills need improvement, I suggest combining your work and travel with a few weeks of language studies.

See what is right for you

• Hospitality industry : A good place to find work away from the beaten path.
• Jobs on organic farms : If you like gardening and fruit picking you find many volunteer jobs on farms.
• Ranch jobs in Canada on cattle ranches or Guest Ranches: fulfill your dream and be a cowboy or cowgirl for a while.
• Language Studies : It’s possible to add an Internship and learn about ranch life.
• And here are some tips about volunteering .

How To Find A Job In Canada

• Detailed Guide and tips on how to find a job in Canada

You will never regret your Work and Travel Canada experience, I promise!

Make sure to ask lots of questions and once you’re here learn from the locals.

Don’t forget Travel Insurance

More about Canada

This website contains affiliate links. At no cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I only recommend products and companies I use and the income helps keep this website up. Thank you!

Tour Guides Operating Within Canada

Canada is home to a wide array of diverse natural landscapes and bustling cities that attract millions of tourists each year., some of these tourists enter canada as part of a guided tour group or, at the very least, use a tour bus as their mode of transportation. while these tourists can enter as visitors, what of the tour guides and the bus drivers that accompany them, contact cohen immigration law for assistance.

Some of these tourists enter Canada as part of a guided tour group or, at the very least, use a tour bus as their mode of transportation. While these tourists can enter as visitors, what of the tour guides and the bus drivers that accompany them? 

These individuals will be performing work in Canada and, as such, issues relating to Canadian work authorization may arise at the border.  As far as this is concerned, certain factors can be used to assess whether or not it is necessary for the individual in question to obtain a Canadian work permit.

The first factor involves the nature of the service to be provided in Canada. If the service entails the need for the guide to be actively involved in the tour, either through the provision of information, or participation in the activities that are featured on the tour, then it is most likely that a Canadian work permit will be required. If, on the other hand, the tour guide is acting more in the capacity of a chaperone or as a figure of authority to lead the group, then a work permit is probably not necessary. In this scenario, when the guide’s role is limited to handling unforeseen incidents and ensuring the smooth progression of the tour, they can most likely receive consideration as business visitors . Generally speaking, the more dynamic and interactive the role of the tour guide in question might be, the higher the likelihood that he or she will have to go about the process of obtaining a Canadian work permit.

The second factor pertains to both the point of origin and point of termination for the tour or tour bus concerned. If the trip begins in Canada and concludes in Canada, a work permit will most likely be required. Because the individual is working exclusively in Canada, it will be necessary for him or her to obtain Canadian work authorization. This will most likely not be the case if the beginning or conclusion of the trip takes place outside Canada, for example in the U.S. This criteria is not determinative, however, as there can be interpretations of this general rule as it concerns the point of origin and point of termination.

For this reason, combined with the subjective nature of the assessment as it concerns the tour guide’s involvement in the tour, it is wise for any tour guide or tour bus driver to consult with an experienced immigration attorney before embarking on a trip that takes place at least partially in Canada.

Would you like to enter Canada to work on a temporary basis? The  Cohen Immigration Law can help. Cohen Immigration Law offers over 45 years of expertise assisting workers and employers navigate Canadian immigration regulations.

Please complete this short form to submit your work permit query directly to Cohen Immigration Law. Our  Work Permit Team  is here to help:

Latest News

Canada's express entry draw results from april 11, 2024.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has conducted the department's second Express Entry draw in as many days. Here are the results of IRCC's latest Express Entry draw, which occurred on April 11, 2024.

Canada's Express Entry Draw Results from March 26, 2024

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially conducted two Express Entry draws in two days this week. Here are the results of IRCC's latest draw, which occurred on March 26, 2024.

• Immigrate to Canada
• Express Entry
• Provincial Nominee Programs
• Quebec Immigration
• Other Federal Economic Programs
• National Occupational Classification
• Language Test Requirements
• Education Credential Assessment
• Immigration Levels Plan
• About the Immigration Department
• About the Immigration Minister
• Working in Canada
• TFWP & IMP
• Work Permit Process
• Work without a Work Permit
• Get Maintained Status
• Business Visitors
• Options for H-1B Visa Holders
• Tech Talent Options
• LMIA-Exempt Work Permits (IMP)
• LMIA-Based Work Permits (TFWP)
• Employer Compliance
• Family Class Sponsorship
• Spouse or Common-Law Partner
• Child or Other Dependent
• Parents and Grandparents
• Requirements for Each Program
• Study in Canada
• Get a Study Permit
• Study Pathways to PR
• Bringing your Family to Canada
• Working While Studying
• Post-Graduation Work Permits
• About Canadian Citizenship
• Benefits of Canadian Passport
• Apply for Proof of Citizenship
• Dual Citizenship
• Citizenship Ceremony
• Overcome Inadmissibility
• Temporary Resident Permit
• Criminal Rehabilitation
• Inadmissible Legal Opinion Letter
• Visiting with a Criminal Record
• Common Offences
• Charges Within Canada
• Authorization to Return to Canada
• Refusals and Appeals
• Canada Security Clearances
• Overcome Medical Inadmissibility
• Inadmissibility to Canada FAQs
• Canada Border Services Agency
• About Cohen Immigration Law
• How to Avoid Fraud
• Workers' Rights in Canada
• Temporary Resident Visas
• Tools and Resources
• Business Immigration Overview
• Entrepreneurs
• Self-Employed
• Getting Settled in Canada
• Opening a Bank Account
• How to Find Work
• Renting a Home
• Buying a Home
• Free Settlement Services
• Public Transportation
• Buying a Car
• Food and Grocery Options
• Buying Furniture
• How to Dress for the Weather
• TV and Home Entertainment
• Get to Know Canada

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

Forgot Password?

You can reset your password here.

Email was Sent

Please check Your email

Come to Canada

Get a free e-book to get you started on your journey!

We take the security of your personal information very seriously. All data and information disclosed on this site are highly confidential. Once you personal data is stored, we employ highly secure servers that restrict access to potential third parties.

Sign Up To Our Newsletter Today & Get a Free e-Book

Canadianvisa.org

We Make Immigration Simple

2022-04-11T07:18:27

2023-07-21T11:28:00

Are you looking for a work visa to immigrate to Canada but don’t know which one to choose? Discover different Canada work visa types here.

Canada Immigration

Express Entry

Comprehensive Ranking System

Express Entry Draw

Invitation to Apply

Express Entry Profile

Immigrate From Your Country

Immigrate from India

Immigrate from the UK

Immigrate from Australia

Immigrate from the Philippines

Immigrate from Mexico

Immigrate from Kenya

Immigrate from Ghana

Immigrate from Nigeria

Immigrate from the UAE

Immigrate from Saudi Arabia

Immigrate from Jamaica

Immigrate from Pakistan

CRS Calculator

Professional and Skilled Worker

Quebec Skilled Worker Program

Federal Skilled Worker Program

Federal Skilled Trades Program

Canadian Experience Class

• Work in Canada

Temporary Foreign Work Permit Program

International Mobility Program

Global Talent Stream

Labour Market Impact Assessment

What is an NOC Code?

How to Apply For Jobs in Canada

How to Apply for a Canada Work Visa

• Work Visa Types

Nafta Work Permits

Ceta Work Permit

Bridging Open Work Permit

Canada UK Trade Agreement

Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership

Canada United States Mexico Agreement

In-demand Occupations

Manitoba In-Demand Jobs in 2023

New Brunswick in-Demand Jobs in Canada in 2023

Newfoundland & Labrador In-Demand Occupations in 2023

Northwest Territories In-Demand Jobs in 2023

Nova Scotia In-demand Jobs in Canada 2023

Prince Edward Island In-Demand Occupations 2023

Quebec In-demand Jobs in 2023

Saskatchewan In-demand Jobs in Canada 2023

Yukon In-Demand Jobs in 2023

Alberta In-Demand Occupations for 2023

Ontario In-Demand Occupations in 2023

British Columbia In-Demand Occupations for 2023

Provincial Nominee Program

Alberta Accelerated Tech Pathway

British Columbia

British Columbia Tech Pilot

Manitoba International Education Stream

New Brunswick

Nova Scotia

Northwest Territories

Newfoundland and Labrador

Ontario Tech Pilot

Ontario International Education Stream

Prince Edward Island

Saskatchewan

Family Sponsorship

Spousal and Common-Law Partner Sponsorship

Spousal and Family Sponsorship

Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship

Business Immigration

Self-Employed Program

Investor Visa

Entrepreneur Visa

Business Visitor Visa

Study in Canada

University List

University of British Columbia

British Columbia Institute of Technology

McGill University

Simon Fraser University

Vancouver Film School

Fairleigh Dickinson University

York University

University of Toronto

University of Waterloo

University of Alberta

Queen’s University

University of Calgary

University of Victoria

How to Get a Canada Study Permit

How to Extend your Canada Study Permit

Student Life in Canada

Student Direct Stream

Work in Canada as a Student

Post-Graduate Work Permit

Study Permit for Visa Partners

Designated Learning Institutions (DLI)

How to Prepare for an IELTS Exam

Canada Education System

Levels of Education in Canada

Pilot Programs

The Atlantic Immigration Pilot

The Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot

The Agri-food Pilot

The Home Care Provider Pilots

Accreditations and Assessments

Education Credential Assessment

Work Accreditation

Red Seal Certification

Visitor's Visa

Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

Temporary Visa

Caregiver Visa

Working Holiday Visa

Permanent Residency

Canadian Immigration Processing Fees

Canadian PR Card

Canadian Citizenship

How to Apply for Canadian Citizenship

Requirements for Becoming a Canadian Citizen

Denied Entry to Canada

Temporary Resident Permit

• Canada Immigration Programs

Updated: July 21st, 2023

To live in Canada as a foreign national, most of the time, you must first find a job, which requires a Canada work visa. Although getting a job before you move to Canada is not always a requirement, it does help you to appear more eligible for a visa, as it shows that you can contribute to the Canadian economy. 

Since Canada has one of the strongest economies globally and an unemployment rate of only 8 percent, projected to be as low as 6.5 percent in 2026, job opportunities are and will continue to increase. This promises even greater prospects for the Great White North, which is why many people want to immigrate to Canada.

Types of Canadian Work Permits

If you get a job offer in Canada as a foreign national, consider it an opportunity you cannot refuse. It can be a very beneficial move for your career and improve your and your family's quality of life .

There are two main types of work permits, under which there is also a category of work visas. You must have a work permit and work visa to immigrate to Canada for work purposes. The two work permits include the following:

Open Work Permit

The open work permit Canada is a golden ticket for those who value flexibility. Unlike employer-specific permits, this one doesn't tie you to a particular employer or location. Think of it as an all-access pass to the Canadian job market.

Who is it for?

Eligible foreign nationals that want to work in Canada in the occupation and for the employer of their choice.

Employer-Specific Work Permit

If the open work permit is an all-access pass, the closed work permit, or employer-specific work permit, is more like a VIP backstage pass – it only grants access to a specific 'show.' In other words, it ties you to a particular employer in a specific location.

The employer-specific permit process requires the employer to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) or an LMIA exemption before hiring a foreign worker. This ensures that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market.

This work permit is for anyone wanting to work for a specific employer in a specific province and for a specified duration.

Pathways to an Employer-Specific Work Permit

Can I Apply for a Work Permit From Inside Canada?

Yes, in certain situations, like if you're an international student, a spouse or common-law partner of a student or skilled worker, or a temporary resident permit valid for six months or more.

Can I Extend My Work Permit?

Yes, you can apply to extend your work permit as long as you do so before it expires.

Can I Work While my Work Permit Application is Being Processed?

Yes, but only under specific conditions, like if you had a work permit before and applied for a new one before your current one expired.

What do I do if my Work Permit is About to Expire?

You can find the country code on your passport. Be careful when you select your country. Some countries have multiple options and codes are quite similar.

Answer yes if you’re a citizen of Canada and another country.

Look on the front cover of your passport for the symbol of a rectangle with a circle in the middle. If you see this symbol, you have an electronic passport.

Answer: You need a visitor visa

For visits of up to 6 months for most purposes. Cost: CAN $100

Get details about visitor visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

For visits of up to 6 months or to transit via a Canadian airport. Cost: CAN $7

Get details about eTA Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid Canadian passport

You need a  valid Canadian passport  to travel to Canada by air (board your flight).

Exception: If you’re an American-Canadian dual citizen with a valid U.S. passport, you don’t need a Canadian passport to fly to Canada. However, you still need to  carry proper identification Opens in a new tab  and meet the basic requirements to enter Canada Opens in a new tab .

Get details about travelling as a dual Canadian citizen Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need a valid passport or travel document to travel to Canada by car, train, bus or boat

If you decide to fly to a Canadian airport instead, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Learn about documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: You need official proof of status in the U.S.

Lawful permanent residents of the U.S. must present these documents for all methods of travel to Canada:

• a valid passport from their country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document ) and
• a valid green card (or equivalent valid proof of status in the United States)

Answer: You need a transit visa 

To connect between 2 international flights, in less than 48 hours. Cost: Free

Note: If you have more than 48 hours between international flights OR if you decide to visit Canada, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about transit visa Opens in a new tab

Answer: You can apply for a parent and grandparent super visa to visit for more than 6 months

• The super visa is for visits of 5 years at a time .
• a letter from your child or grandchild with a promise to financially support you for the duration of your visit in Canada.
• More information on approved insurance providers outside of Canada will be available in the coming months.
• be valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry to Canada
• provide at least $100,000 in emergency coverage.
• You must apply for a super visa from outside Canada.
• Cost: CAN $100

Note : If you don't meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for a visitor visa.

Get details about super visa Opens in a new tab

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you need to apply for an electronic travel authorization (eTA). An eTA allows for visits of up to 6 months.

Note : If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with a valid identity document. Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

If you don’t meet the criteria for a super visa, you can visit Canada for up to 6 months with

• a valid passport from your country of nationality (or an equivalent acceptable travel document Opens in a new tab ) and
• official proof of lawful permanent resident status in the U.S., such as a green card

Answer: You need a valid identity document

Bring identification such as a valid passport. Or, if a member of an official program such as Nexus, you may present your valid membership card.

Learn about the documents you may need Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for a visitor visa.

When you travel to Canada, bring your

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved, if you received one
• valid passport that has your visitor visa stuck to one of its pages

Learn about studying in Canada Opens in a new tab

Answer: You should already have a valid visitor visa

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first study or work permit.

If you leave and return to Canada,  you must travel with:

• your valid study or work permit
• If you don’t have a valid visa when you check-in for a flight, it may result in travel delays (or a missed flight).
• your valid passport

Exception : If you return directly from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

If your visa has expired or was only valid for a single entry to Canada

You need to  apply for a new visa Opens in a new tab .

• A visa costs CAN$100.
• It’s valid for up to 10 years.

If your study or work permit will expire soon, you must extend it before you can apply for a new visitor visa.

You need a visitor visa to leave and return to Canada.  Apply for your visa before you leave.

You can apply for a visitor visa from inside Canada if you meet all the conditions below:

• you’re already in Canada
• you hold a valid study or work permit
• you want to  leave and return to Canada  in the near future
• your existing  visitor visa Opens in a new tab  is expired or was valid for only one entry

Exception : If you return  directly  from a visit only to the United States or St. Pierre and Miquelon, you don’t need a valid visitor visa if your study or work permit is still valid.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing times  don’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa Opens in a new tab

You need a  visitor visa  to travel to Canada.

A visitor visa:

• is a sticker we put in your passport
• costs CAN$100

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) Opens in a new tab  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a study permit

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a study permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue a visitor visa for you

• letter of introduction that says your work permit application is approved, if you received one

Learn about working in Canada Opens in a new tab

We automatically issued a  visitor visa to you when we approved your first work permit.

Processing times vary by country.  You may need to  give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics)  with your application. Processing time  doesn’t include  the time you need to give biometrics.

Apply for a visitor visa

Answer: Before you continue, find out if you need a work permit

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit Opens in a new tab

Answer: If we approve your study permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA)

• You don’t need to submit a separate application for an eTA.

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Answer: You need an eTA to leave and return to Canada

Your study permit lets you study in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

What you need depends on your travel plans.

If you re-enter by a Canadian airport (fly back to Canada)

You must have:

• the passport that’s linked to a valid eTA and
• your valid study permit
• costs CAN $7
• is electronically linked to your passport

If you received your current study permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

If you don’t have an eTA or yours has expired, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA.

Apply for an eTA Opens in a new tab

If you re-enter Canada by car, boat, bus or train

• a valid passport and

Answer: If you fly to a Canadian airport, you need an eTA

• costs CAN$7

Most applicants get their eTA approval (via an email) within minutes. However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you drive or arrive by train, bus or boat

You just need a  valid passport or travel document Opens in a new tab  to get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat.

Answer: If we approve your work permit application, we’ll issue an electronic travel authorization (eTA) for you

• valid passport that you used to apply for your work permit

If you get a new passport before you come to Canada, you’ll need to apply for a new eTA if you plan to fly to a Canadian airport.

Your work permit lets you work in Canada. If you plan to leave and return to Canada, you need to make sure you have what you need to re-enter the country.

• your valid work permit

If you received your current work permit on or after August 1, 2015, you may have a valid eTA.

• your valid work or study permit

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work or study permit

When you travel to Canada, you must bring your:

• letter of introduction that says your study permit application is approved

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

If you’re driving or arriving by train, bus, or boat.

You just need to  bring the right travel documents Opens in a new tab .

If you fly to or transit through a Canadian airport

You just need to travel with your valid U.S. passport if you fly or transit through a Canadian airport.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit
• valid work or study permit

Answer: Your permit is not an eTA or a visa

When you extend your study permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• the passport that’s linked to your valid eTA  and
• a valid visitor and

Apply for visitor visa Opens in a new tab

When you extend your work permit, you’ll also be issued an eTA if you don’t already have one. When you fly to a Canadian, you must have:

• a valid visitor visa and

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

You can apply for an  eTA  if you travel to Canada  by air only .

• is only valid when flying to or transiting through a Canadian airport

Most applicants get their eTA approval within minutes (via email). However, some requests  can take several days  to process if you’re asked to submit supporting documents.

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa  you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If your travel plans change

You need a  visitor visa  (not an eTA) if you decide to  get to Canada by car, train, bus or boat  instead.

Answer: You don’t need to apply for a visitor visa or eTA

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit and
• official proof of U.S. lawful permanent resident status

Answer: You need valid proof of lawful permanent resident status of the U.S. to leave and return to Canada

• valid study permit,
• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your study permit, and

Answer: You don’t need an eTA or a visitor visa

• valid passport or travel document and

You’ll need to answer some questions on another page to find out.

If you’re eligible to study without a study permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

• valid passport or travel document that you used to apply for your work permit and
• valid work permit
• valid work permit,

If you’re eligible to work without a work permit, you’ll need to come back to this page to find out what you need to travel to Canada.

Answer: You’re eligible to apply for an eTA

If you already have a  valid Canadian visitor visa , you don’t need to apply for an eTA. You can travel with your visa until it expires.

If you transit through Canada to or from the United States

You  may  be able to  transit through Canada without a visa or eTA if you meet certain eligibility requirements.

You need an official proof of status as a lawful permanent resident of the U.S., such as one of the following:

• valid permanent resident card (Form I-551)
• foreign passport with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (also known as an Alien Documentation, Identification and Telecommunication [ADIT] stamp)
• foreign passport with a temporary I-551 printed notation (“Upon endorsement serves as temporary I-551 evidencing permanent residence for 1 year”) on a machine-readable immigrant visa upon endorsement with a U.S. Customs and Border Protection admission stamp
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-751 (Petition to Remove Conditions on Residence) or Form I-829 (Petition by Investor to Remove Conditions on Permanent Resident Status)
• expired permanent resident card (Form I-551) with Form I-797 (Notice of Action) for pending Form I-90 (Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card [Green Card])
• valid re-entry permit (Form I-327)
• Form I-94 with an unexpired temporary I-551 stamp (ADIT stamp) and a passport-style photo

Important note:

This tool provides information only. It was created to assist you as you decide what travel document you may need to travel to Canada. This tool may not provide information on all travel documents or your particular situation. If you choose to apply, we will assess your application in accordance with the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and its related Regulations. Read our complete terms and conditions (opens in a new tab) .

Page details

How Does Canada's NEXUS Trusted Traveller Program Work?

Canada's NEXUS program is a trusted traveler initiative designed to expedite the border clearance process for pre-approved, low-risk travelers entering Canada or the United States. Here's everything you need to know about the program.

What is the NEXUS program?

Operated jointly by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), NEXUS aims to enhance border security while facilitating seamless travel for eligible individuals.

For those familiar with the TSA Pre✓ (also known as TSA PreCheck®) and Global Entry programs, you'll find that the NEXUS program works in a similar way. With Pre✓, travelers can enjoy an expedited security process at participating Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints. Likewise, Global Entry offers a seamless experience through security and immigration.

Global Entry Vs TSA PreCheck: Which One Is Right For You?

Now, back to the topic at hand: NEXUS. This program, formed on an agreement between Canada and the United States, provides a quick and convenient transition through immigration, customs, and security when traveling between the two countries. The NEXUS card can be used at designated land border crossings, airport kiosks and eGates, and Telephone Reporting Centres when traveling via boat, per the CBSA .

What are the benefits?

A ccording to the CBSA , NEXUS offers numerous benefits to travelers who are seeking a hassle-free border-crossing experience. Those entering Canada from the US can avoid long queues by using:

• The NEXUS self-service kiosks and eGates available at nine major international airports;
• TSA Pre lanes at more than 200 participating airports across the United States;
• Dedicated vehicle lanes that are provided at 20 selected land border crossings;
• NEXUS eGates at the Peace Bridge in Fort Erie, Ontario, and the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, Ontario;
• Expedited clearance through applicable Canadian Air Transport Security Authority (CATSA) security screening lines.

In the US, travelers entering from Canada can benefit from:

• Global Entry kiosks at eight Canadian airports;
• Dedicated lanes at 16 land border crossings;
• Expedited processing at all marine crossings.

Who is eligible?

NEXUS membership is available to citizens and permanent residents of Canada and the United States, as well as Mexican citizens who are members of the Mexican Viajero Confiable program.

Note that permanent residents must have been legal residents of Canada or the US for at least three years prior to applying unless you (or your family member) are serving in the American armed forces in a foreign country or you're a family member of a Canadian or American serving in a diplomatic mission or consular post overseas.

TSA PreCheck: Cost, Benefits & Advice For Applicants

Applicants must pass criminal history and immigration checks and demonstrate compliance with customs, immigration, and agricultural regulations. Additionally, participants must agree to abide by program rules and maintain their eligibility throughout their membership.

Children can join the NEXUS program independently of their parents or legal guardians. This means that minors can be part of the program even if their parents are not. Most domestic pets (except birds) can also use the dedicated NEXUS lanes, kiosks, or eGates, provided a valid rabies vaccination certificate is presented.

How to apply?

To join the NEXUS program, travelers must undergo a thorough background check and interview process as part of the CBSA and CBP's risk assessment. Before starting an application, you must have your proof of citizenship or permanent residency ready. Accepted documents include a valid passport, birth certificate, photo ID, and a valid driver's license, among others.

Step 1: Review privacy statements and terms and conditions

Before applying, applicants must review Canada's privacy statement, the United States Privacy Act statement, and the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation privacy statements. They are also required to review and accept the terms and conditions of the NEXUS program.

Step 2: Submit your application

Applicants must then submit an online application through the Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP) website, providing personal information, travel history, and biometric data. Be prepared to pay a $50 (this will be increased to $120 in October 2024) non-refundable application processing fee for those over the age of 18.

As an estimate, your application will be processed within 30 business days of receipt, provided the application is fully completed as per the requirements. This timeframe does not include the scheduling of the enrollment interview, which is dependent upon appointment availability at enrollment centers. Take note that there is currently a substantial backlog of new applicants.

Step 3: Attend an interview

Upon successfully completing the application, applicants must schedule an in-person interview at a designated enrollment center, where they undergo further screening and verification of their eligibility.

At the interview, applicants under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian, or another adult (with a written letter of consent).

What To Expect At A Global Entry Interview

Once approved, NEXUS members enjoy expedited processing at designated NEXUS lanes when crossing the Canada-US border by land, air, or sea. The NEXUS card is valid for five years and can be renewed online, with a non-refundable renewal fee of $50.

In conclusion, Canada's NEXUS program offers a convenient and secure way for pre-approved travelers to expedite border clearance when entering Canada or the United States. By streamlining the immigration and customs process, NEXUS enhances travel efficiency while maintaining robust security measures to safeguard borders and protect national interests.

• Share full article

Planning to Combine Business and Leisure Travel? You’re Not Alone.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are trying to figure out where their duty of care obligations begin and end.

Credit... Aart-Jan Venema

Supported by

By Amy Zipkin

• April 7, 2024

On a Sunday in late January, Melinda Buchmann, who lives in Florida and supervises client relations for RevShoppe, a 30-person remote company advising organizations on sales techniques and strategies, arrived in Banff, Alberta, to help set up a four-day company meeting.

The last day of the event, her husband, Josh, a director of strategic partnerships for the delivery company DoorDash , who also works remotely, joined her. They spent two leisurely days hiking in Banff National Park and visiting Lake Louise.

“I take advantage, because I don’t know when I’m going to return,” Ms. Buchmann said of the decision to combine downtime with a business trip.

As postpandemic work life has changed, and arrangements now include full-time office attendance as well as hybrid and remote work, so, too, has business travel. The phenomenon known as bleisure, or blended business and leisure travel, was initially embraced largely by digital nomads . But such combined travel is now also popular with people outside that group . Allied Market Research, a subsidiary of Allied Analytics, based in Portland, Ore., estimated that the bleisure travel market was $315.3 billion in 2022 and would reach $731.4 billion by 2032.

As employees increasingly add leisure time to their business trips, companies are struggling to determine where their legal obligation to protect employees from harm — their so-called duty of care — begins and ends. And workers may think that because their trip started with business, they will get all the help they need if something goes wrong on the leisure end. Instead, they should generally consider the leisure part of a trip as a regular vacation where they cover all expenses and contingencies.

Companies are responsible for knowing where their employees are during a business trip, covering expenses if an accident or emergency occurs, securing new lodging if a hotel is damaged, even swapping out a broken down rental car. Still, it’s not entirely clear if that coverage ends completely after the conference or the last client meeting.

Companies recognize that threats are increasing, said Robert Cole, senior research analyst focusing on lodging and leisure travel at Phocuswright, a market research company. They are trying to figure out how to take care of a valuable company resource, the employee, without leaving themselves open to financial risk or potential litigation.

“Crafting a comprehensive policy that balances business objectives, employee well-being and legal considerations can be challenging,” Nikolaos Gkolfinopoulos, head of tourism at ICF, a consulting and technology services company in Reston, Va., wrote in an email.

Employees may be on their own without realizing it and may be surprised by out-of-pocket expenses if they require hospital care abroad or evacuation, said Suzanne Morrow, chief executive of InsureMyTrip , an online insurance travel comparison site in Warwick, R.I.

Ms. Morrow said medical coverage provided by a company “is generally only for the dates of the actual business trip abroad.” If travelers are extending the trip for personal travel, she added, “they would want to secure emergency medical coverage for that additional time abroad.”

Employers and employees are left to figure out when the business portion of the trip ends and the leisure segment begins, a significant detail if an employee has a medical emergency. “Where does the corporation liability end?” said Kathy Bedell, senior vice president at BCD Travel, a travel management company.

Companies have varying policies to deal with the new travel amalgam. The chief executive of RevShoppe, Patricia McLaren, based in Austin, Texas, said the company provided flexible travel options and allowed employees to work anywhere they choose.

Even so, there are constraints. The company requires all employees, including executives, to sign liability and insurance waivers when they are on a voluntary company-sponsored trip, such as an off-site meeting. Such waivers typically place responsibility on employees for their own well-being. And if they bring someone, they are responsible for that person’s expenses.

Employees are responsible for requesting the paid time off and notifying their managers of their whereabouts, although that part is not a requirement. Managers have to ensure adequate staffing, Ms. McLaren said.

Elsewhere, employees may not bother to mention the leisure portion of their trip. Eliot Lees, a vice president and managing director at ICF, said he had been on trips as a child with his parents when they combined business and leisure. His parents were academics, who would piggyback vacations onto conferences.

Now he does the same. “I don’t think I ever asked for approval,” he said. (ICF has no formal business-leisure travel policy. It’s allowed as part of personal time off.) After a conference in the Netherlands last year, he spent four days hiking in the northern part of the country.

“I go anywhere, and take more risks than I should,” he said. He said he didn’t carry personal travel or accident insurance.

Any nonchalance may quickly evaporate if a threat emerges. Security experts say even low-risk locations can become high-risk for a few days or weeks of the year.

“Companies are concerned about losing visibility into a traveler’s whereabouts if they booked flights and hotels outside their corporate travel management company,” Benjamin Thorne, senior intelligence manager in London for Crisis24, a subsidiary of GardaWorld, wrote in an email. “The company may think the traveler is in one city when, in reality, they could have booked a holiday package to another nearby city. This lack of visibility by the company makes it difficult to support travelers when a disaster occurs.”

He also raised the possibility that “a traveler with bleisure travel reservations and expectations may find their work trip canceled due to changes in the risk environment or company policy, disrupting their leisure plans.”

Will a company step in off hours if there’s a problem? “That depends on how you are booked,” Mr. Cole, the senior research analyst at Phocuswright, said. A rule of thumb is the further you get from corporate control, the greater the gray area gets.

Half of GoldSpring Consulting’s clients take the responsibility for the entire trip, said Will Tate, a partner at the consultancy based in Cross Roads, Texas, and a certified public accountant. They don’t want the reputational risk. The other half say: “The business trip ended Friday. That’s when we end our duty of care.”

Some companies are trying to define and narrow the gray area. “If you are clearly on personal time, there is no legal requirement for your employer to provide for you,” said Nicole Page, a lawyer whose practice includes employment law at Reavis Page Jump in New York.

Uber provides employees with advisories before a trip, travel assessments, safety tips while traveling and emergency travel assistance, including medical aid, airport travel support, urgent and emergency assistance, and lost or stolen personal property insurance whether they are on business or pleasure travel or a combination.

And at DoorDash, Chris Cherry, head of global safety and security, wrote in an email that “while personal travel is not something we track, we have received requests to extend our travel support capabilities to personal travel.” Mr. Cherry said in those cases, the company has manually added employee leisure itineraries to its travel risk management system and “provided the same level of overwatch that we do for regular business travel.”

The Buchmanns plan to travel this month to Barcelona, Spain, for the McDonald’s Worldwide Convention. DoorDash will have a booth, and Mr. Buchmann will work on the exhibit floor and also entertain clients.

Ms. Buchmann will accompany him. She plans to go sightseeing in the morning, and work in the afternoons and evenings Barcelona time. She will also take three days of paid time off and has shared her plans with Ms. McLaren, the RevShoppe chief executive.

They will stay a day after the conference and plan to visit the Dalí Theater and Museum in Figueres. “I’m sure there will be no shortage of tapas and window shopping along way,” Mr. Buchmann said. He expects to be back at work the next Monday.

Explore Our Business Coverage

Dive deeper into the people, issues and trends shaping the world of business..

Stopping a Huge Cyberattack: A Microsoft engineer noticed something was off on a piece of software he worked on. He soon discovered someone was probably trying to gain access to computers all over the world .

Hoping for an A.I. Productivity Boost:  Economists doubt that A.I. is already visible in productivity data . Big companies, however, talk often about adopting it to improve efficiency.

Cashing In on Graffiti:  Brands, developers and even officials are embracing the global appeal of street art , but the boom comes with questions about preserving a neighborhood’s cultural cachet.

‘Twitter Menace’ or True Believer?: The deep-pocketed tech investor Garry Tan says he wants to save San Francisco. But his pugnacious online habits are making him enemies .

A C.E.O.’s Bold Claims:  Amira Yahyaoui, a human rights activist, promoted the success of her student aid start-up, Mos. Some of her statements do not add up .

Advertisement

Canada's job numbers almost unchanged in March, while unemployment rose to 6.1%

Labour force survey shows canadian employment was virtually unchanged last month.

Social Sharing

The Canadian economy lost 2,200 jobs in March while the unemployment rate rose to 6.1 per cent, as more people looked for work and job growth ground to a halt, Statistics Canada said Friday.

That's up from 5.8 per cent in February and marks the largest increase in the unemployment rate since summer 2022.

The federal agency's labour force survey shows employment was little changed last month, with jobs shed after modest increases over the last several months.

Job losses were concentrated in accommodation and food services, as well as wholesale and retail trade, and professional, scientific and technical services.

Meanwhile, employment increased in four industries, led by health care and social assistance.

Statistics Canada says the increase in the jobless rate was driven by an increase of 60,000 people searching for work or temporarily laid off.

Average hourly wages rose 5.1 per cent in March, to $34.81 on a year-over-year basis, after five per cent growth in February.

With files from CBC's Jenna Benchetrit

Related Stories

• Canadian economy starts the year on a rebound with 0.6 per cent growth in January
• Some consumers, businesses are feeling more optimistic about the economy, say BoC surveys

Add some “good” to your morning and evening.

Your weekly look at what’s happening in the worlds of economics, business and finance. Senior business correspondent Peter Armstrong untangles what it means for you, in your inbox Monday mornings.

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

• Meet our partners
• Advertise with us

Who can work in Canada without a work permit?

While foreign workers usually require a Canadian work permit to secure employment, exceptions exist .

Foreign nationals are increasingly drawn to Canada for its diverse and promising work opportunities.

Schedule a Free Work Permit Consultation with the Cohen Immigration Law Firm

By fulfilling the eligibility criteria of one of the following 22 groups, foreign nationals may explore work opportunities without a work permit in Canada.

Business visitors

This group streamlines access for individuals involved in business or trade within Canada, as long as they are not entering the Canadian labour market. While various subcategories exist within this classification, all business visitors must satisfy the following overarching criteria:

• There must be no intent to enter the Canadian labour market (there will be no gainful employment in the country)
• The worker’s activity in Canada must be international in scope (it is assumed that a business visitor will engage in cross-border activity of some sort)

For business visitors in Canada working for a foreign employer, the following criteria are assumed:

• The primary source of the worker’s compensation is outside of Canada
• The principal place of employment is located outside of Canada
• The employer’s profits are accrued outside of Canada

When entering Canada, individuals on business visits should be ready to provide immigration officials with documentation verifying their intended status in the country. The required documentation will differ depending on the specific circumstances. A support letter from the parent company or an invitation letter from the Canadian company can increase your chances of being accepted as a business visitor.

Foreign representatives and their family members

Foreign representatives, along with their personal staff and family members, are eligible to work in Canada without the need for a work permit. To qualify for this exemption, foreign representatives must obtain accreditation from the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT). This exception also extends to diplomatic representatives assigned to United Nations offices in Canada.

For family members of foreign representatives to work without a work permit, they must obtain a 'no objection letter' from the Protocol Department of DFAIT.

Military personnel

Military or civilian personnel stationed in Canada under the Visiting Forces Act are permitted to work and study without the need for work or study permits. This exemption extends to the families of these individuals as well.

Moreover, military personnel are exempt from passport requirements, temporary resident visas, and foreign national medical examinations. However, civilians and their family members are still obligated to obtain these documents if deemed necessary.

Foreign government officers

Canada participates in agreements with other nations that facilitate the international exchange of government employees. These agreements allow foreign workers to come to Canada and work for a department or agency within federal or provincial governments. These individuals are not affiliated with a foreign mission or organization and do not hold accreditation from the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT).

For executive-level officers engaged in such roles, a contract from Canada’s Public Service Commission (PSC) is necessary. However, officers operating below an executive capacity do not need a contract, although assignments lasting beyond three months should involve a formal letter of agreement between the officer and their Canadian employer.

Family members of officers covered by this exemption generally receive an open work permit or are exempt from the permit requirement while in Canada.

American cross-border maritime law enforcement officers

Certain law enforcement vessels operating across borders are operated by joint Canadian and American crews. These personnel operate on both sides of the US/Canada border, and when within Canadian territory, American crew members are allowed to perform their job responsibilities without the necessity of obtaining additional work authorization.

In-flight security officers (IFSOs)

Foreign International Flight Security Officers (IFSOs) are hired by foreign governments to ensure safety on foreign aircraft. Given their designation by a foreign government, they are permitted to work in Canada without a work permit, as long as their responsibilities are limited to providing security onboard a foreign aircraft.

However, IFSOs from countries mandating a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) for entry into Canada must obtain this visa to carry out their duties in Canadian airspace.

On-Campus employment

A student can work on-campus at their educational institution if they hold a valid study permit and they are a full-time student at one of the following types of schools:

• A public post-secondary institution (i.e. college or university)
• A collège d’enseignement général et professionnel (CEGEP)
• A college-level private institution in Quebec
• A Canadian private institution authorized to confer degrees

A student can work on-campus throughout the duration of their study permit, if the student is in full-time studies. The scope of employment can encompass various standard on-campus jobs.

Individuals working as research or teaching assistants off-campus as part of a research grant can be considered on-campus workers. The student must also meet all of the following additional criteria:

• Be recommended by their academic department
• The work to be performed must be directed by a department head or faculty member
• The work must take place in a research institute or program in an affiliated hospital or other research location

In addition, once a student has completed their studies and has applied for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), they are eligible to work full time while waiting for the PGWP as long as they still hold a valid study permit.

Performing artists

Many foreign performing artists can work in Canada without a work permit. However, some types of performers/performances require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and a work permit.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has outlined some common performers that can enter Canada without a work permit. Some include:

• Bands performing at bars, pubs, restaurants, etc.
• Foreign-based musical and theatrical individuals and groups and their essential crew, working outside bars and restaurants
• Guest artists (not employed) within a Canadian performance group for a time-limited engagement
• Persons performing at a private event, such as a wedding

In addition, certain performers may work in Canada without a work permit under different sub-categories. These include:

• Film producers (business visitors)
• Film and recording studio users (business visitors)
• Persons doing guest spots on Canadian TV and radio broadcasts (guest speakers)

Athletes and team members

Both professional and amateur athletes have the option to come to Canada for individual or team-based sports activities or events. Similarly, foreign coaches, trainers, and other essential team members are eligible to travel to Canada to take part in these events.

The examples provided by IRCC of individuals who may qualify under this exemption are as follows:

• Amateur players on Canadian teams
• Foreign pet owners entering their own animals in a show
• Jockeys racing horses from foreign-based stables
• Race car drivers
• Individuals attending professional team tryouts
• Foreign team members participating in a competition in Canada
• Grooms or team support members
• Full or part-time coaches and trainers

The spouses of professional athletes are eligible for a LMIA-exempt work permit for their time in Canada.

News reporters and media crews

News reporters and their crews are allowed to report on events in Canada without obtaining a work permit. This applies to journalists, given that their employing company is not Canadian. However, this exemption does not extend to managerial or clerical personnel, unless these individuals are covering special events lasting for six months or less.

In most cases, media crews coming to Canada to produce travelogues, documentaries, etc., are obligated to obtain work permits. Nevertheless, the final decision rests with the Canadian Visa Officer reviewing their application.

Public speakers

Presenters at events, including guest speakers, commercial speakers, and seminar leaders, are allowed present in Canada without requiring a work permit.

Commercial speakers falling into this category typically have a vested interest in the event where they are presenting. This often involves renting a commercial space, advertising the event, charging admission, etc. However, if commercial speakers are hired by a Canadian entity, they must obtain a LMIA and a work permit for their time in Canada.

Convention organizers

This group encompasses individuals who come to Canada to coordinate a convention or conference, along with the administrative support staff of the organizing committee. These events may include corporate meetings, trade shows, exhibitions, and similar gatherings. Notably, hands-on service providers like audio-visual specialists do not fall under this category.

Convention organizers hired to work on a Canadian event are not permitted to work without a work permit. IRCC specifies a 'Canadian event' as one organized by an entity located and actively conducting business in Canada.

Individuals attending conferences and meetings are regarded as business visitors and are exempt from the necessity of obtaining a work permit.

Those in the profession of preaching, overseeing religious services, or providing spiritual counseling are allowed to work in Canada without the need for a work permit. This applies to ordained ministers, laypeople, or members of a religious order. The primary responsibilities of the temporary worker should align with a distinct religious objective, such as offering religious instruction or promoting a particular faith.

Individuals seeking entry to Canada under this exemption should submit documentation to confirm the authenticity of the employment offer and their capacity to minister to a congregation, including credentials and past employment records.

Individuals conducting charitable or religious work in Canada still require a work permit; however, this permit is exempt from the LMIA process.

Judges, referees, and similar officials

Judges, referees, and similar officials can come to Canada to take part in international amateur events and competitions in the realms of sports, arts, agriculture, or culture.

For amateur sports competitions, the events should be coordinated by an international amateur sport organization and hosted by a Canadian entity. In this context, "amateur" denotes a competition in which athletes are not remunerated for their participation. However, judges, referees, and comparable officials intending to participate in professional sports competitions are required to undergo a positive LMIA and obtain a work permit.

Examiners and evaluators

Foreign professors and researchers may enter Canada to judge theses and projects completed by students without needing a work permit.

Expert witnesses and investigators

Experts required to enter Canada for surveys or analyses serving as evidence, or to testify before a regulatory body or court, are exempt from obtaining a work permit.

Healthcare students

Foreign healthcare students from international institutions can work clinical clerkships or short-term practicums in Canada without needing a work permit. The fields can include medicine, nursing, medical technology, and occupational and physical therapy. These practicums must be unpaid and not exceed four months. However, paid work or stays beyond four months necessitate a work permit.

Civil aviation inspectors

Flight operations and cabin safety inspectors inspecting commercial international flights do not require work permits if employed by a recognized aeronautical authority and have valid documentation.

Aviation accident or incident inspector

Accredited representatives and advisors aiding in aviation accident or incident investigations under the Canadian Transportation Accident Investigation and Safety Board Act are exempt from work permit requirements.

Crew members on foreign-owned means of transportation not registered in Canada and primarily engaged in international transportation do not need work permits, covering operations, maintenance, or passenger service roles.

Emergency service providers

Workers entering Canada for emergency services during natural disasters or commercial accidents can do so without work permits. Canada-US agreements facilitate the entry of emergency aid workers, including doctors, medical teams, appraisers, and foreign insurance adjusters.

Maintained status

Individuals can continue working under the conditions of an expired work permit, provided they applied for a new one before the original expiration. While awaiting a response, they must stay in Canada to maintain status. Once a decision is made, they can either continue working under the new permit or leave Canada.

If you have questions or require any help, Cohen Immigration Law offers over 45 years of expertise assisting workers and employers navigate Canadian immigration regulations.

• Canada work permit
• skilled worker
• temporary foreign workers
• work in Canada
• Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
• Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at [email protected]

• Life in Canada

• Live Webinar
• Express Entry

• Family Sponsorship
• Citizenship

Language selection

• Français fr

Work permit: How to apply

From Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada

• 1. About the process
• 2. Who can apply
• 3. How to apply
• 4. After you apply
• 5. Prepare for arrival
• 6. When you start working

How to apply

You need to apply online for a work permit. Answer a few questions to find out how to apply.

Where are you applying from?

• outside Canada

Do any of these situations describe you?

You can apply from inside Canada if one of these applies:

• You’re a Ukrainian national or an accompanying family member of a Ukrainian national.
• You have a valid study or work permit.
• Your spouse, common-law partner or parent has a valid study or work permit.
• You’re eligible for a post-graduation work permit and your study permit is still valid.
• You or your spouse, common-law partner or parent has a temporary resident permit that is valid for 6 months or more.
• spouse and common-law partner in Canada class or overseas family class
• temporary resident permit holder class
• You made or will make a claim for refugee protection.
• You’ve been recognized as a Convention refugee or protected person by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada.
• You’re allowed to work in Canada without a work permit , but you need a work permit to work in a different job (this does not apply to business visitors ).
• You’re a trader, investor, intra-company transferee or professional under the Canada–United States–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) .

Are you a Ukrainian national or an accompanying family member of a Ukrainian national?

Select the option that best describes you:

• My work permit has expired, and I have no status in Canada.
• I’m a visitor in Canada.

Do you need a visitor visa to come to Canada?

• I don’t know

Ukraine – Apply for an open work permit

As a Ukrainian national, you can apply for an open work permit.

How to apply for an open work permit

Outside Canada: Apply from outside Canada

To get the forms you need, tell us how you’re applying and where you’re applying from.

Priority processing for work permit applicants

We’re prioritizing certain work permit applications.

If your occupation is not on the lists below, we’ll still process your application. However, it may take longer than it normally would.

People who perform or support essential services

We’re prioritizing the applications of people who  perform or support essential services .

When you fill out the work permit application form

To get priority processing, follow these steps:

• offer of employment  or
• labour market impact assessment (LMIA)
• This is box 4 in the  Details of intended work in Canada  section.
• You must enter only the number .

On November 16, 2022, we switched to the 2021 version of the NOC system.

If you apply for a work permit on or after November 16, 2022, make sure you use the NOC 2021 codes .

Eligible occupations that perform or support essential services

Agriculture and agri-food occupations

NOC 2021 codes

• Butchers – retail and wholesale (NOC 63201)
• Meat cutters and fishmongers – retail and wholesale (NOC 65202)
• Agricultural service contractors and farm supervisors (NOC 82030)
• Livestock labourers (NOC 85100)
• Specialized livestock workers and farm machinery operators (NOC 84120)
• Harvesting labourers (NOC 85101)
• Nursery and greenhouse labourers (NOC 85103)
• Fish and seafood plant workers (NOC 94142)
• Labourers in food and beverage processing (NOC 95106)
• Labourers in fish and seafood processing (NOC 95107)
• Industrial butchers and meat cutters, poultry preparers and related workers (NOC 94141)

Health-care occupations

• Nursing coordinators and supervisors (NOC 31300)
• Registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses (NOC 31301)
• Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine (NOC 31100)
• Specialists in surgery (NOC 31101)
• Police investigators and other investigative occupations (NOC 41310)
• General practitioners and family physicians (NOC 31102)
• Nurse practitioners (NOC 31302)
• Physician assistants, midwives and allied health professionals (NOC 31303)
• Respiratory therapists, clinical perfusionists and cardiopulmonary technologists (NOC 32103)
• Other professional occupations in health diagnosing and treating (NOC 31209)
• Pharmacists (NOC 31120)
• Medical laboratory technologists (NOC 32120)
• Medical laboratory assistants and related technical occupations (NOC 33101)
• Medical radiation technologists (NOC 32121)
• Cardiology technologists and electrophysiological diagnostic technologists (NOC 32123)
• Licensed practical nurses (NOC 32101)
• Paramedical occupations (NOC 32102)
• Nurse aides, orderlies and patient service associates (NOC 33102)

Get the application to work in Canada

Apply online from inside Canada

Step 1: make sure you have what you need.

To apply online, you’ll need:

• a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents, and
• a valid credit or debit card

You can submit a paper application if either

• you can’t apply online because of a disability
• In some cases, you may be able to apply online if you follow special instructions.

What to do if you have problems applying online

Step 2: Read the instruction guide

Even if you apply online, you should read the instruction guide before you complete your application. The guide will explain how to complete each field on the form.

Venezuelan passport holders

You may need to complete extra steps when you fill out your application .

We’re prioritizing the applications of people who perform or support essential services .

• offer of employment or
• This is box 4 in the Details of intended work in Canada section.
• Home child care providers (LMIA-required in-Canada applicants) (NOC 44100)
• Home support workers, caregivers and related occupations (LMIA-required in-Canada applicants) (NOC 44101)

Step 3: Prepare your answers for the online tool

Before you can upload your forms, you must answer some questions. We use your answers to create a personalized document checklist for you.

Step 4: Know the fees you have to pay

In most cases, your fees will include processing fees for you and anyone you include on your application

We’ll ask you to pay your fees at the end of your application.

Fees for open work permits

If you’re applying for an open work permit, make sure you pay all applicable fees:

• work permit fee ($155)
• open work permit holder fee ($100)

Step 5: Create your online account or sign in

You need an account to apply online. You can use your account to:

• pay your fees
• submit your application
• check your status

Inside Canada – Not eligible: Apply online under a public policy

Normally, visitors can’t apply for work permits from inside Canada. Due to a temporary policy change, visitors can apply online for an  employer-specific work permit  by following the steps below.

Who’s eligible

• You must stay in Canada while we process your application. If you leave while your application is being processed, you won’t be eligible under this public policy.
• Applications submitted before or after these dates are not eligible.
• If your visitor status has expired, you’ll need to restore your visitor status before you apply for a work permit.

Certificat de sélection du Québec (CSQ) holders are also eligible for this public policy.

If you held a work permit in the last 12 months

You may be able to work while we process your application. Find out how .

If you’re a visitor in Canada, you’re not eligible to apply for work permit with a labour market impact assessment (LMIA) to work as a caregiver in either of the following National Occupational Classifications (NOC):

• NOC 44100 (Home child care providers)
• NOC 44101 (Home support workers, caregivers and related occupations)

You can find your NOC on your LMIA.

To apply online, you’ll need

• a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents

You should read the instruction guide before you complete your application. The guide will explain how to complete each field on the form.

Step 3: Know the fees you have to pay

In most cases, your fees will include processing fees for you and anyone you include on your application.

Step 4: Create your online account or sign in

You need an account to apply online. You can use your account to

• submit your application forms

How to start your application

Once you sign in to your account, you’ll need to

• go to the “Start your application” section on the account welcome page
• click “Apply to come to Canada”
• on the next page, scroll down to the “I do not have a personal reference code” section
• click on the “Visitor visa, study and/or work permit” button

Get your document checklist

You must answer some questions. Make sure you answer these questions correctly:

• Either less than or more than 6 months
• Your current immigration status is as a visitor
• When asked “Are you applying under the Canada–USA–Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) or under a Public Policy related to work permits as announced by IRCC for an employer specific work permit?”, answer “yes”

We use your answers to create a personalized document checklist for you.

If you can’t apply online

• there’s a problem with the online application

What to do if you can’t apply online

My work permit has expired, and I have no status in Canada : Apply to restore your status as a worker

If your work permit has expired, you need to apply to restore your status as a worker.

How to restore your status as a worker

Port of entry – Visa required

You can’t apply for a work permit at a port of entry. You need to follow the instructions for applying for a work permit from outside Canada.

Apply for a work permit from outside Canada

Port of entry – Visa not required

How to apply at a port of entry

Port of entry – I don’t know if I need a visa

If you’re not sure, you can answer a few questions to find out if you need a visitor visa or an eTA to travel to Canada.

Find out if you need a visa

If the printed expiry date on your Venezuelan passport has passed

If the printed expiry date has passed and you’re applying for a visitor visa, study permit, work permit or to extend your stay as a temporary resident in Canada, follow these steps:

• Add 5 years to the printed expiry date shown on your passport and enter it in the expiry date field of the application form.
• Include a letter of explanation with your application stating: “I am a Venezuelan national with a Venezuelan passport, which has been extended for 5 years”.

Warning: If your passport is still expired after adding 5 years to the printed expiry date, your passport is considered expired. You’re not eligible to submit an application with that passport.

Credit cards and prepaid cards

We accept credit cards and prepaid cards from:

• MasterCard ®
• American Express ®
• UnionPay ®  (for online applications only; debit cards not accepted)

If you use a prepaid credit card, keep it for  at least  18 months after you pay to make refunds easier.  Find more on prepaid cards .

We also accept all Visa Debit cards.The card you use doesn't have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Debit cards

• be from a Canadian bank using  INTERAC ®  Online , and
• be registered for online banking through your bank’s website.

We also accept all Debit MasterCard ®  and Visa ®  Debit cards. If your card has the Visa Debit logo on it, alone or with the INTERAC ®  Online logo, select Visa Debit as your payment method.

The card you use does not have to be in your name. The cardholder’s name will appear on the receipt but it does not need to match your application.

Page details

• Solar Eclipse 2024

10 Surprising Facts About the 2024 Solar Eclipse

A total solar eclipse will sweep across North America on Monday, April 8, offering a spectacle for tens of millions of people who live in its path and others who will travel to see it.

A solar eclipse occurs during the new moon phase, when the moon passes between Earth and the sun, casting a shadow on Earth and totally or partially blocking our view of the sun. While an average of two solar eclipses happen every year, a particular spot on Earth is only in the path of totality every 375 years on average, Astronomy reported .

“Eclipses themselves aren't rare, it's just eclipses at your house are pretty rare,” John Gianforte, director of the University of New Hampshire Observatory, tells TIME. If you stay in your hometown, you may never spot one, but if you’re willing to travel, you can witness multiple. Gianforte has seen five eclipses and intends to travel to Texas this year, where the weather prospects are better.

One fun part of experiencing an eclipse can be watching the people around you. “They may yell, they scream, they cry, they hug each other, and that’s because it’s such an amazingly beautiful event,” Gianforte, who also serves as an extension associate professor of space science education, notes. “Everyone should see at least one in their life, because they’re just so spectacular. They are emotion-evoking natural events.”

Here are 10 surprising facts about the science behind the phenomenon, what makes 2024’s solar eclipse unique, and what to expect.

The total eclipse starts in the Pacific Ocean and ends in the Atlantic 

The darker, inner shadow the moon casts is called the umbra , in which you can see a rarer total eclipse. The outer, lighter second shadow is called the penumbra, under which you will see a partial eclipse visible in more locations.

The total eclipse starts at 12:39 p.m. Eastern Time, a bit more than 620 miles south of the Republic of Kiribati in the Pacific Ocean, according to Astronomy . The umbra remains in contact with Earth’s surface for three hours and 16 minutes until 3:55 p.m. when it ends in the Atlantic Ocean, roughly 340 miles southwest of Ireland.

The umbra enters the U.S. at the Mexican border just south of Eagle Pass, Texas, and leaves just north of Houlton, Maine, with one hour and eight minutes between entry and exit, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) tells TIME in an email.

Mexico will see the longest totality during the eclipse 

The longest totality will extend for four minutes and 28 seconds on a 350-mile-long swath near the centerline of the eclipse, including west of Torreón, Mexico, according to NASA.

In the U.S., some areas of Texas will catch nearly equally long total eclipses. For example, in Fredericksburg, totality will last four minutes and 23 seconds—and that gets slightly longer if you travel west, the agency tells TIME. Most places along the centerline will see totality lasting between three and a half minutes and four minutes.

More people currently live in the path of totality compared to the last eclipse 

An estimated 31.6 million people live in the path of totality for 2024’s solar eclipse, compared to 12 million during the last solar eclipse that crossed the U.S. in 2017, per NASA .

The path of totality is much wider than in 2017, and this year’s eclipse is also passing over more cities and densely populated areas than last time. 

A part of the sun which is typically hidden will reveal itself

Solar eclipses allow for a glimpse of the sun’s corona —the outermost atmosphere of the star that is normally not visible to humans because of the sun’s brightness.

The corona consists of wispy, white streamers of plasma—charged gas—that radiate from the sun. The corona is much hotter than the sun's surface —about 1 million degrees Celsius (1.8 million degrees Fahrenheit) compared to 5,500 degrees Celsius (9,940 degrees Fahrenheit).

The sun will be near its more dramatic solar maximum 

During the 2024 eclipse, the sun will be near “solar maximum.” This is the most active phase of a roughly 11-year solar cycle, which might lead to more prominent and evident sun activity, Gianforte tells TIME.  

“We're in a very active state of the sun, which makes eclipses more exciting, and [means there is] more to look forward to during the total phase of the eclipse,” he explains. 

People should look for an extended, active corona with more spikes and maybe some curls in it, keeping an eye out for prominences , pink explosions of plasma that leap off the sun’s surface and are pulled back by the sun’s magnetic field, and streamers coming off the sun.

Streamers “are a beautiful, beautiful shade of pink, and silhouetted against the black, new moon that's passing across the disk of the sun, it makes them stand out very well. So it's really just a beautiful sight to look up at the totally eclipsed sun,” Gianforte says.

Two planets—and maybe a comet—could also be spotted

Venus will be visible 15 degrees west-southwest of the sun 10 minutes before totality, according to Astronomy. Jupiter will also appear 30 degrees to the east-northeast of the sun during totality, or perhaps a few minutes before. Venus is expected to shine more than five times as bright as Jupiter. 

Another celestial object that may be visible is Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks , about six degrees to the right of Jupiter. Gianforte says the comet, with its distinctive circular cloud of gas and a long tail, has been “really putting on a great show in the sky” ahead of the eclipse.

The eclipse can cause a “360-degree sunset” 

A solar eclipse can cause a sunset-like glow in every direction—called a “360-degree sunset”—which you might notice during the 2024 eclipse, NASA said . The effect is caused by light from the sun in areas outside of the path of totality and only lasts as long as totality.

The temperature will drop 

When the sun is blocked out, the temperature drops noticeably. During the last total solar eclipse in the U.S. in 2017, the National Weather Service recorded that temperature dropped as much as 10 degrees Fahrenheit. In Carbondale, Ill. for example, the temperature dropped from a peak of 90 degrees Fahrenheit just before totality to 84 degrees during totality.

Wildlife may act differently 

When the sky suddenly becomes black as though nighttime, confused “animals, dogs, cats, birds do act very differently ,” Gianforte says.

In the 2017 eclipse, scientists tracked that many flying creatures began returning to the ground or other perches up to 50 minutes before totality. Seeking shelter is a natural response to a storm or weather conditions that can prove deadly for small flying creatures, the report said. Then right before totality, a group of flying creatures changed their behavior again—suddenly taking flight before quickly settling back into their perches again.

There will be a long wait for the next total eclipse in the U.S.

The next total eclipse in the U.S. won’t happen until March 30, 2033, when totality will reportedly only cross parts of Alaska . The next eclipse in the 48 contiguous states is expected to occur on Aug. 12, 2044, with parts of Montana and North Dakota experiencing totality.

More Must-Reads From TIME

• Exclusive: Google Workers Revolt Over $1.2 Billion Contract With Israel
• Jane Fonda Champions Climate Action for Every Generation
• Stop Looking for Your Forever Home
• The Sympathizer Counters 50 Years of Hollywood Vietnam War Narratives
• The Bliss of Seeing the Eclipse From Cleveland
• Hormonal Birth Control Doesn’t Deserve Its Bad Reputation
• The Best TV Shows to Watch on Peacock
• Want Weekly Recs on What to Watch, Read, and More? Sign Up for Worth Your Time

Contact us at [email protected]

You May Also Like