Calgary

๐Ÿ›‚

Work Permits and Documentation

Key details about obtaining work permits and necessary legal documentation for employment.

Sections

1. Overview of Work Permits in Canada

In Canada, work permits are issued at the federal level by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Calgary does not have its own specific work permit system, but as a city in Alberta, it benefits from provincial programs like the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), which can facilitate work permits for certain categories of workers.

There are two main types of work permits:

  1. Employer-Specific Work Permit: Tied to a specific employer, job, and location.
  2. Open Work Permit: Allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with some exceptions.

2. Categories of Work Permits

Here are the most common categories of work permits relevant to Calgary:

A. Employer-Specific Work Permit

  • Requires a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) in most cases.
  • The employer must prove that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market.
  • Common in industries like oil and gas, construction, and agriculture in Alberta.

B. Open Work Permit

  • Does not require an LMIA or a job offer.
  • Common for:
    • Spouses or common-law partners of skilled workers or international students.
    • International students who have graduated from a Canadian institution (Post-Graduation Work Permit).
    • Refugees, asylum seekers, or vulnerable workers.

C. Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP)

  • A provincial program that nominates workers for permanent residency but can also facilitate work permits.
  • Streams include:
    • Alberta Opportunity Stream: For workers already in Alberta with a valid work permit.
    • Rural Renewal Stream: For workers in rural Alberta communities.
    • Alberta Express Entry Stream: For skilled workers in the federal Express Entry pool.

D. Global Talent Stream (GTS)

  • A fast-track program for highly skilled workers in tech and other specialized fields.
  • Employers in Calgary can use this program to hire foreign workers quickly.

E. Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program (SAWP)

  • For temporary agricultural workers, particularly in Albertaโ€™s farming and ranching industries.

3. Costs Involved

The costs for work permits in Canada are as follows (as of October 2023):

  • Work Permit Application Fee: CAD 155 per person.
  • Open Work Permit Holder Fee: Additional CAD 100.
  • Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 per person or CAD 170 for a family.
  • Employer Compliance Fee (paid by the employer): CAD 230 (for LMIA-exempt jobs).

If an LMIA is required, the employer must pay an additional CAD 1,000 for the LMIA application.

4. Application Process

The process for obtaining a work permit depends on whether you are applying from outside Canada, inside Canada, or at a port of entry.

A. Applying from Outside Canada

  1. Job Offer: Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer.
  2. LMIA (if required): The employer applies for an LMIA and provides you with a copy.
  3. Gather Documents:
    • Job offer letter.
    • LMIA (if applicable).
    • Passport (valid for the duration of your stay).
    • Proof of qualifications (e.g., degrees, certifications).
    • Proof of financial support.
    • Police clearance certificate (if required).
    • Medical exam results (if required).
  4. Submit Application:
    • Apply online through the IRCC website.
    • Pay the application and biometrics fees.
  5. Biometrics: Provide fingerprints and a photo at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
  6. Processing Time: Varies by country of residence (typically 1-4 months).

B. Applying from Inside Canada

  • You can apply if you are already in Canada on a valid visa (e.g., as a student or visitor) and meet eligibility criteria.
  • Follow the same steps as above but submit your application through your IRCC account.

C. Applying at a Port of Entry

  • Only available to citizens of visa-exempt countries (e.g., the U.S.).
  • Bring all required documents to the border or airport and apply in person.

5. Necessary Documents

The following documents are typically required for a work permit application:

  • Valid passport.
  • Job offer letter.
  • LMIA (if applicable).
  • Proof of qualifications (e.g., education, work experience).
  • Proof of financial support (bank statements, etc.).
  • Police clearance certificate (if required).
  • Medical exam results (if required).
  • Biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

6. Processing Times

Processing times vary depending on your country of residence and the type of work permit. As of October 2023:

  • Outside Canada: 1-4 months.
  • Inside Canada: 1-2 months.
  • Global Talent Stream: 2 weeks (for eligible applicants).

You can check current processing times on the IRCC website.

7. Local Considerations in Calgary

While work permits are issued federally, there are local resources in Calgary to assist you:

A. Settlement Services

  • Calgary Catholic Immigration Society (CCIS): Offers support for newcomers, including job search assistance and work permit guidance.
  • Immigrant Services Calgary: Provides employment services, language training, and help with immigration paperwork.

B. Local IRCC Office

  • The nearest IRCC office is located in Calgary. While most applications are processed online, you can visit the office for specific inquiries or scheduled appointments:
    • Address: Harry Hays Building, 220 4 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2G 4X3.
    • Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.

C. Alberta Works Centres

  • These centers provide employment services and can help you connect with local employers:
    • Calgary Downtown Alberta Works Centre: 855 8 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3P1.

D. Housing and Accommodation

  • Calgary has a range of housing options for newcomers. Popular neighborhoods for immigrants include:
    • Northeast Calgary: Affordable housing and diverse communities.
    • Downtown Calgary: Convenient for professionals working in the city center.
    • Southwest Calgary: Family-friendly with good schools.
  • Average rent (as of 2023):
    • 1-bedroom apartment: CAD 1,300โ€“1,800/month.
    • 2-bedroom apartment: CAD 1,800โ€“2,500/month.

8. Tips for Success

  • Start Early: Work permit applications can take time, so apply as soon as possible.
  • Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all requirements for your specific work permit category.
  • Stay Organized: Keep copies of all documents and receipts.
  • Seek Help: Use local settlement services for guidance.
  • Understand Your Rights: Familiarize yourself with Canadian labor laws to ensure fair treatment.

By following this guide, you should be well-prepared to navigate the work permit process and settle into life in Calgary. If you have further questions or need assistance, feel free to ask!