Work
Canada’s growing economy and diverse job market provide opportunities for foreign nationals looking to build their careers. At Kingsbridge Immigration, we help you navigate the various work permit pathways, so you can start your professional journey in Canada with confidence.
Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP)
For employers who need international talent to fill critical positions, the Temporary Foreign Worker Program offers a streamlined solution. Before hiring a foreign worker, most employers must secure a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The LMIA ensures that hiring international workers won’t negatively impact the Canadian labour market. Once the LMIA is approved, foreign nationals listed in the application are eligible to apply for a Canadian work permit.
International Mobility Program (IMP)
The International Mobility Program offers a unique pathway to work in Canada without an LMIA. Under IMP, work permits are available for individuals whose roles benefit Canada through international agreements (such as trade agreements), reciprocal employment, public policy, or significant Canadian interests. This program is particularly helpful for business investors, professionals, and those in humanitarian circumstances, like refugees or vulnerable workers. The IMP opens doors to skilled professionals who can make a positive impact on the Canadian workforce without the requirement of an LMIA.
International Experience Canada (IEC)
The IEC program is ideal for young adults looking for a cultural and professional experience in Canada. Available to citizens of countries with reciprocal agreements, IEC offers three work permit categories:
Working Holiday: For travelers looking to explore Canada with the flexibility to work without a prior job offer.
Young Professionals: For candidates with a job offer in a skilled occupation (National Occupational Classification levels 0, A, B, and in some cases, C).
International Co-op (Internship): For students registered at a post-secondary institution who have secured an internship or co-op placement in Canada.
The list of countries where citizens are eligible to apply include Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Chile, Costa Rica, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hong Kong, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Graduates of Canadian post-secondary institutions may qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience after completing an eligible program. This permit offers a fantastic opportunity for students to transition from academics to a professional career in Canada.
Eligibility for PGWP in light of recent changes by IRCC:
If you apply for a study permit on or after November 1, 2024, your eligibility for a PGWP will depend on your program of study and meeting the minimum language proficiency now required by the government (CLB5 for college graduates). IRCC has published a list of programs with a field of study requirement, this list can be accessed here.
General eligibility requirements are:
Completion of an eligible program from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), lasting at least eight months and granting a diploma, degree, or certificate.
Completion of at least 50% of studies within Canada.
Full-time study in each semester, except the final term.
Receipt of transcripts and a letter of completion from the DLI.
Graduates have 180 days after receiving their program completion documents to apply for the PGWP.
Ready to Begin? Contact us today and discuss your Canadian journey. Let Kingsbridge Immigration be your trusted partner as you embark on this exciting chapter in Canada!