When planning to work temporarily in Canada, obtaining a work permit, also known as a Canadian work visa, is a crucial step in ensuring that you are working legally. To secure your work permit, you and your potential employer may be required to obtain a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) document. However, many work permit holders in Canada do not need an LMIA. The LMIA is only necessary in certain cases where it serves as proof that your employment in Canada will not adversely affect the local labor market. Once you have received an LMIA, you can apply for a temporary work permit through the IRCC. In some cases, the process can be expedited depending on your occupation and the nature of the work you intend to undertake in Canada.

Global Talent Stream

Canada's Global Talent Stream is a component of the Global Skills Strategy that allows employers in high-growth and IT sectors to simplify the recruitment of skilled foreign workers for specific job positions when Canadian candidates are not available. The accelerated hiring procedure of this program involves fulfilling certain criteria, such as conducting a Labor Market Assessment (LMIA) and adhering to predetermined salary levels, among other stipulations. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to process work permit applications filed under the Global Talent Stream program in one month or less.

Intra-Company Transfer

Due to the robust economic ties between Canada and the United States, numerous American companies have established affiliate offices, branches, or subsidiaries in Canada. The Intra-Company Transfer Program permits multinational businesses to bring valuable staff to Canada without the need to acquire a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Employees who serve as executives, managers, or hold specialized knowledge positions may qualify to relocate to Canada along with their family members as intra-company transferees, allowing them to work in the country.

Work Without a Work Permit

There are various circumstances where individuals from the United States can carry out work in Canada without the need to obtain a Temporary Work Permit. These include situations where they are considered Business Visitors, meaning they are engaged in trade or business activities within Canada, but do not intend to participate in the Canadian labor market.