How to get a work permit in Canada for Columbian citizens: a step-by-step guide

Canada is a top destination for job seekers, but if you're a Columbian citizen, you'll need a work permit to be employed there. Below, we break down the process, permit types, required documents, and essential details to help Columbian citizens successfully obtain a Canadian work permit.

Do Columbian citizens need a work permit to work in Canada?

Yes, in most cases, Columbian citizens must obtain a work permit to be legally employed in Canada.

However, some exceptions apply where a work permit is NOT required, such as:

• Students from Colombia with a valid study permit that includes work authorization.
• Diplomats and individuals covered by international agreements.
• Short-term specialists like artists, athletes, or researchers under specific conditions.

If you're unsure whether you need a work permit, visit Canada.ca for official guidance.

Does a work permit allow Colombians to enter Canada?

No, a work permit alone does not grant entry into Canada. It only authorizes Columbian citizens to work in the country.

If a Columbian citizen plans to travel to and from Canada, they must have:

- A valid work permit – confirming the right to work.

- A passport – valid for the entire stay.

- A visa or an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), depending on the traveler's nationality.

Types of work permits in Canada for Colombians

1. Employer-specific work permit (tied to an employer)

This permit is issued for a specific employer and includes:

• The employer's name.
• Job position and work conditions.
• Permit validity period.

How can Colombians obtain it?

1. Secure a job offer from a Canadian employer willing to hire a worker from Colombia.

2. The employer must obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).

3. After receiving the LMIA, Colombians can apply for a work permit.

2. Open work permit (not tied to an employer)

This permit is not restricted to a particular employer, providing more flexibility for Columbian citizens.

Who among Colombians can obtain it?

• Spouses of foreign students or workers.
• Graduates of Canadian institutions under the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWP).
• Refugees and individuals under humanitarian protection.

How can Columbian citizens apply for it?

Submit an application for an open work permit, ensuring all required documents are included.

Work permit duration for Columbian citizens

The validity of a work permit for Columbian citizens depends on multiple factors:

• Standard duration: Typically between 1 to 2 years.
• Passport validity: The work permit cannot exceed the expiration date of the Columbian’s passport.
• LMIA validity: If applicable, the permit's duration must align with the period stated in the LMIA.

How Colombians can obtain a work permit in Canada: step-by-step guide

Step 1: Secure a Job in Canada

Where can Columbian citizens search for job openings?

• Job Bank Canada
• Indeed Canada
• LinkedIn
• Workopolis

If an LMIA is required, a Columbian citizen must find an employer willing to secure it!

Step 2: Verify Employer’s LMIA Approval (if required)

What is an LMIA?

A labor market assessment confirming that no qualified local workers are available for the role.

LMIA Process:

1. The Canadian employer applies for an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).

2. They must demonstrate efforts to hire Canadian workers first.

3. If approved, the employer provides the LMIA to the citizen from Colombia for the work permit application.

Step 3: prepare required documents

Documents needed for Colombians to obtain a work permit:

• A valid passport covering the permit’s duration.
• Job offer letter from the employer.
• LMIA (if applicable).
• Proof of education and qualifications.
• Medical examination results (if required for the role or residence country).
• Police clearance certificate.
• Payment of CAD 155 fee.
• Biometrics (fingerprints and photo).

Step 4: Apply for a work permit

Where can Columbian citizens submit their application?

- Online via the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website.

- At a visa application center in Colombia.

Processing time: between 1 to 6 months, depending on permit type and applicant’s country.

How to check the status of your work permit application?

1. Online application: Log into your IRCC account to check updates.

2. Paper application: After submitting, link it to an online account for easy tracking.

Final Step: Getting your work permit & entering Canada

Once approved, here’s what happens next:

• You’ll receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter, which must be shown at the border.
• A border officer will issue your physical work permit.

What do Columbian citizens need to enter Canada for work?

• A valid work permit confirmation.
• A passport that is still valid.
• Proof of financial stability.
• A copy of the LMIA (if required).
• Health insurance, if necessary.

Work permit rules for Columbian citizens in Canada

These conditions depend on the type of permit and typically include:

1. Type of work – the kind of job a Columbian citizen is allowed to do.

2. Location – the province or region where work is permitted.

3. Employer – the company or organization Colombians is authorized to work for.

4. Duration – how long the work permit is valid.

All work permit holders, including Columbian citizens, are strictly prohibited from working in establishments that pose a risk of sexual exploitation.

Since a work permit does not provide permanent residency, Columbian citizens must leave Canada when their permit expires. However, if they wish to stay long-term, various immigration programs are available to help them apply for permanent residence.

How Columbian citizens can move from a temporary work permit to permanent residency

If Colombians have gained work experience in Canada, they may be eligible to apply for permanent residency (PR). Here are the main immigration pathways available for individuals from Colombia:

• Express Entry (CEC – Canadian Experience Class) – for skilled workers with Canadian work experience.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – allows workers to gain PR through specific provincial immigration programs.
• Atlantic Immigration Program – designed for individuals working in Canada’s Atlantic provinces.

Each program has its own requirements, so it’s important for Columbian citizens to check eligibility criteria before applying.

Bringing family members to Canada on a work permit

If a Columbian citizen is applying for a work permit, their family members may be eligible to join them in Canada under specific conditions:

1. Spouse or partner – can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada.

2. School-age children – can study in Canada without needing a separate study permit.

Important changes starting January 21, 2025:

• Spouses of Columbian citizens working in Canada will be eligible for an open work permit only if the primary applicant works in TEER 0 or 1 occupations, or select TEER 2 or 3 positions in high-demand industries.
• Children of foreign workers, including Colombians, will no longer be eligible for an open work permit.

These updates are designed to streamline the immigration process and better manage the number of temporary residents in Canada.

How Columbian citizens can extend their work permit in Canada

If a Columbian’s work permit is about to expire, they can apply for an extension to continue working legally.

Key requirements:

1. Application deadline – it’s best to apply at least 30 days before the current permit expires.

2. How to apply – submit an online application through an IRCC account.

Maintained status – if Columbian citizens apply before their current permit expires, they can keep working under the same conditions until a decision is made.

3. To avoid interruptions, it’s important for Columbian citizen to apply early and ensure all required documents are submitted.