How to obtain a work permit in Canada for Americans: A step-by-step guide

Canada is a popular destination for labor migrants, but employment for a US citizen in Canada requires obtaining a work permit (Work Permit). Below is a detailed guide explaining the process, types of permits, required documents, and key details for Americans to successfully obtain a work permit in Canada.

Does a US citizen need a work permit to work in Canada?

Yes, most Americans need a work permit to work in Canada.

However, there are cases when a work permit is NOT required, for example:

• Students from USA (with a study permit that includes the right to work).
• Diplomats and other categories covered by international agreements.
• Short-term specialists such as artists, athletes, or researchers (under specific conditions).

If you are unsure whether you need a work permit, check the official website Canada.ca.

Does a work permit allow Americans to enter Canada?

No, a work permit alone does not grant entry to Canada. It only allows Americans to work in the country.

If a US citizen from plans to travel outside Canada and return, they will need:

1. A work permit – confirms the right to work in Canada.

2. A valid passport – must be valid for the entire period of stay.

3. A visa or eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization).

Types of work permits in Canada for Americans

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 US citizens obtain it?

1. Find an employer in Canada willing to hire a citizen from USA.

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

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

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

This permit is not linked to a specific employer, offering more flexibility for Americans.

Who among Americans can obtain it?

• Spouses of students or workers.
• Graduates of Canadian educational institutions (PGWP).
• Refugees and individuals with humanitarian status.

How can US citizens obtain it?

Submit an application for an open work permit along with supporting documents.

Work permit duration for Americans

The validity of a work permit for US citizens depends on several factors:

• Standard duration: usually from 1 to 2 years.
• Passport validity: the permit cannot exceed the validity of the US’s passport.
• LMIA validity: if applicable, the permit cannot exceed the duration specified in the LMIA.

Step-by-step guide for US citizens to obtain a work permit

Step 1: Find a job in Canada

Where can citizens from USA search for job opportunities?

• Job Bank Canada
• Indeed Canada
• LinkedIn
• Workopolis

If an LMIA is required, a US citizen should look for an employer ready to obtain it!

Step 2: Ensure the employer has obtained an LMIA (if required)

What is an LMIA?

It is a labor market assessment confirming that there are no available local workers for the position.

LMIA process:

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

2. The employer must prove that they attempted to hire Canadian workers.

3. If the LMIA is positive, the employer provides it to the citizen from USA to apply for a work permit.

Step 3: Gather the necessary documents

• Required documents for Americans to obtain a work permit:
• A valid passport (covering the entire duration of the permit).
• Job offer (employment invitation).
• LMIA (if required).
• Education and qualification documents.
• Medical examination (depends on the country of residence and job position).
• Police clearance certificate.
• Fee payment (CAD 155).
• Biometrics (fingerprints, photo).

Step 4: Submit the work permit application

Where can US citizens apply?

- Online via the Canada.ca website.

- Through a visa application center in USA.

Processing time: from 1 to 6 months (depending on the type of permit and applicant's country).

Checking the status of a work permit application

You can track the status of their application in the following ways:

• Online application: check the status through an IRCC account.
• Paper application: after submission, link the application to an online account for easier tracking.

Step 5: Receive the work permit and enter Canada

After approval:

1. You will receive a Port of Entry Letter, which must be presented at the border.

2. A border officer will issue the physical work permit.

What do citizens from USA need when entering Canada?

• Work permit confirmation.
• A valid passport.
• Proof of financial stability.
• A copy of the LMIA (if required).
• Health insurance (if necessary).

Conditions of using a work permit in Canada for Americans

The physical work permit includes specific conditions depending on the type of permit. These conditions may include:

1. Type of work: the job a US citizen is allowed to perform.

2. Location of work: the region or province in Canada.

3. Employer: the name of the company or organization.

4. Work duration: the period for which the permit is valid.

All work permit holders, including Americans, are prohibited from working in establishments where there is a risk of sexual exploitation of employees.

Since a work permit does not grant permanent resident status, US citizens must leave Canada once it expires. However, if Americans wish to stay in Canada permanently, there are immigration programs that can help.

How can Americans transition from a temporary work permit to permanent residency?

If Americans have worked in Canada, they may qualify to apply for permanent residency (PR).

Main options for citizens from USA:

• Express Entry (CEC – Canadian Experience Class) – for workers with Canadian work experience.
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – an opportunity to obtain PR through provincial programs.
• Atlantic Immigration Program – for jobs in Atlantic provinces.

Including family members in a work permit application for Americans

If US citizen is applying for a work permit, their family members may accompany them to Canada under certain conditions.

• Spouse or partner: can apply for an open work permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada.
• School-age children: can study in Canadian institutions without a separate study permit.

Changes effective January 21, 2025:

1. Spouses of Americans working in Canada: eligible for an open work permit if the primary applicant works in TEER 0 or 1 positions, or certain TEER 2 or 3 positions in high-demand sectors.

2. Children of foreign workers, including Americans: will no longer be eligible for an open work permit.

These changes aim to optimize the immigration process and manage the number of temporary residents in Canada.

Extending a work permit for Americans

If a work permit for US citizens is nearing expiration, they can apply for an extension.

Application deadline: it is recommended to apply at least 30 days before the current permit expires.

Process: apply online through an IRCC account.

If Americans apply for an extension before their current permit expires, they have the right to continue working under the same conditions until a decision is made.