Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Indian professionals looking to work abroad. With a strong economy, high-paying jobs, and a great quality of life, Canada attracts thousands of skilled workers every year. If you’re an Indian citizen planning to work in Canada, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Canadian work visa.
Types of Canadian Work Permits
Canada offers different types of work permits, depending on your job offer, qualifications, and work category. The two main types are:
1. Employer-Specific Work Permit
This type of permit allows you to work in Canada under specific conditions, such as:
✔️ Working for a specific employer
✔️ Working for a limited period
✔️ Working at a specific location (if applicable)
To apply for this, you need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which is a document proving that your employer was unable to find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident for the job.
2. Open Work Permit
An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada (except those who do not comply with labor laws). This permit is usually granted to:
✔️ Spouses of temporary foreign workers or international students
✔️ Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) holders
✔️ Certain refugee claimants and protected persons
Eligibility Requirements for Indians
To apply for a Canadian work visa, Indian citizens must meet the following requirements:
✅ Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer (for employer-specific work permits)
✅ Obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (if required)
✅ Show proof of sufficient funds to support yourself in Canada
✅ Have no criminal record (Police Clearance Certificate required)
✅ Be in good health (medical examination may be required)
✅ Convince the visa officer that you will leave Canada after your work permit expires
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Canadian Work Visa from India
Step 1: Get a Job Offer from a Canadian Employer
To work in Canada, you must first secure a job offer from a Canadian company. Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Job Bank Canada can help you find job openings.
Step 2: Employer Applies for LMIA (If Required)
If your job requires an LMIA, your employer must apply for it from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). Once approved, you can proceed with your work permit application.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
You will need the following documents to apply:
📌 Valid passport
📌 Job offer letter from a Canadian employer
📌 LMIA document (if applicable)
📌 Educational certificates
📌 Work experience letters
📌 Proof of sufficient funds
📌 Police clearance certificate
📌 Medical exam report (if required)
📌 Passport-size photographs
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You can apply for a Canadian work visa online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or at a Visa Application Center (VAC) in India.
Step 5: Biometrics & Interview (If Required)
You may be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints & photograph) at a Visa Application Center. Some applicants may also be called for an interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate.
Step 6: Wait for Processing & Get Your Visa
Work visa processing times vary, but it usually takes 8 to 16 weeks. Once approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter, which you must show when you arrive in Canada.
Cost & Processing Time
💰 Application Fee: CAD 155 (Approx. ₹9,500)
📅 Processing Time: 8 to 16 weeks (may vary based on application type and location)
How to Move to Canada After Your Work Permit Expires?
Many Indian workers in Canada apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through the Express Entry System or Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Working in Canada gives you valuable work experience, which can increase your chances of getting PR.
Conclusion
A Canadian work visa is a great opportunity for Indian professionals to build their careers in a thriving economy. By following the steps above, you can successfully apply for a work permit and start your journey toward working and possibly settling in Canada.
If you’re serious about working in Canada, start job hunting today and prepare your documents to make your dream a reality!