Getting a work permit in Canada for French people: a complete guide

Many people dream of working in Canada, but if you're a French citizen, you'll need a work permit to do so legally. Below is a complete guide covering the process, required documents, permit types, and key details to help French people successfully apply.

Is a work permit necessary for French people?

Yes, most French people must apply for a work permit before they can work in Canada.

However, some exceptions exist where a permit is NOT required:

1. Students from France who have study permits allowing employment.

2. Diplomats and officials under international agreements.

3. Short-term workers such as entertainers, athletes, and researchers under specific conditions.

For clarification, visit Canada.ca for up-to-date information.

Does a work permit allow you to enter Canada?

No, a work permit alone does not grant entry to Canada.

If a French citizen plans to work in Canada and travel in and out of the country, they must have:

• A valid work permit – confirming employment authorization.
• A passport – valid for the duration of the stay.
• A visa or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), depending on nationality.

Available work permits in Canada for French people

1. Employer-specific work permit

This type of permit is tied to a particular employer and outlines:

• Employer's name.
• Job description and employment conditions.
• Validity period.

How does a French citizen apply?

- Secure employment with a Canadian company hiring workers from France.

- The employer must apply for an LMIA.

- After LMIA approval, French citizens can submit a work permit application.

2. Open work permit

This permit offers more freedom as it is not linked to any single employer.

Who can apply?

• Spouses of foreign workers or students.
• Recent graduates from Canadian institutions eligible for PGWP.
• Refugees and individuals with humanitarian status.

What is the process for French people?

Prepare and submit an open work permit application with all necessary documentation.

Work permit validity for French citizens

The duration of a work permit for French citizens varies based on several factors:

• Typical validity: 1-2 years.
• Passport limitation: The work permit cannot be longer than the French’s passport validity.
• LMIA constraint: If needed, the permit length corresponds to the LMIA validity.

Steps to apply for a work permit as a French citizen

Step 1: Search for job opportunities in Canada

Where can citizens from France find jobs?

- Job Bank Canada

- Indeed Canada

- LinkedIn

- Workopolis

If an LMIA is necessary, the French citizen must find an employer willing to obtain one.

Step 2: Confirm Employer’s LMIA (If Needed)

What is an LMIA?

An assessment confirming there are no local workers available for the job.

LMIA process:

• The Canadian employer applies for an LMIA.
• They must show proof of recruitment efforts within Canada.
• If approved, the LMIA is given to the worker from France for the work permit application.

Step 3: Prepare the required documents

French people need the following:

• A valid passport.
• Job offer letter.
• LMIA (if required).
• Educational and qualification documents.
• Medical exam results (if applicable).
• Police clearance certificate.
• CAD 155 fee payment.
• Biometrics (fingerprints, photo).

Step 4: Submit the application

Where can French citizens apply?

• Online through IRCC.
• At a visa application center in France.

Processing time: usually 1 to 6 months.

Checking work permit status

1. Online applicants: Log into IRCC and check your application.

2. Paper applicants: Link your application to an online account for easier tracking.

Final step: work permit approval & border entry

Once your permit is granted:

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

What French citizens need to enter Canada

To avoid issues at the border, make sure you carry:

• A work permit approval letter.
• A valid passport.
• Proof of sufficient funds.
• A copy of the LMIA (if applicable).
• Health insurance if required.

Work permit conditions in Canada: what French people should know

A work permit in Canada comes with specific rules and restrictions that French people must follow. These conditions may include:

1. Allowed job type – the type of work French people is permitted to do.

2. Work location – the approved province or region for employment.

3. Employer restrictions – the specific company French citizens are allowed to work for.

4. Time limit – the period the work permit remains valid.

Additionally, all work permit holders, including French citizens, are strictly forbidden from working in places where there is a risk of sexual exploitation.

Since a work permit does not grant permanent residency, French people must leave Canada when their permit expires. However, for those wishing to stay, Canada has immigration programs that can help transition to permanent residence.

How French citizens can become permanent residents of Canada

If French people have worked in Canada, they may be eligible for permanent residency (PR) through various immigration programs. The main options for individuals from France include:

• Express Entry (CEC – Canadian Experience Class) – for skilled workers who have gained Canadian work experience.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – a pathway to PR through nomination by a Canadian province.
• Atlantic Immigration Program – designed for workers in Canada’s Atlantic region.

Each program has its own criteria, so French citizens should explore their options to find the best route to permanent residency.

Family members of French citizens on a work permit

When a French citizen applies for a Canadian work permit, their family members may also be allowed to join them, depending on eligibility:

• Spouse or common-law partner – can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work in any field.
• Children – school-age children can attend Canadian schools without needing a separate study permit.

Changes taking effect on January 21, 2025:

• Spouses of French citizens can apply for an open work permit only if the main applicant is employed in TEER 0 or 1 jobs, or select TEER 2 or 3 occupations in priority industries.
• Children of foreign workers, including French people, will no longer qualify for an open work permit.

These updates are intended to manage temporary immigration numbers and ensure a more structured immigration process in Canada.

Can French people extend their work permit? Here’s what to do

If a French citizen is working in Canada and their permit is about to expire, they may be eligible for an extension.

Important details about the extension process:

1. Apply early – the recommendation is to submit the application at least 30 days before the permit expires.

2. Online application – all requests must be submitted through an IRCC account.

3. Work continuity – as long as French citizens apply before their current permit expires, they can keep working under the same conditions until a decision is made.

Planning ahead helps French citizens avoid work interruptions and maintain their legal status in Canada.