3 things you need to get a working visa in Canada

Why do you need a work visa to get a job in Canada? If you are not a Canadian citizen and want to work here, you need an approval by Citizenship and Immigration Canada. Read on to find out how to obtain your working visa today.

Foreign workers and business people require a work permit that lets them work in Canada temporarily. For people who want to stay and work in Canada on a permanent basis, you must qualify as a federal skilled worker or a live-in caregiver. If approved, it will be granted a permanent resident status. If you are wondering about how to get a Canadian work visa, here are three steps you must complete in order to be issued a valid work permit:

As part of the application process, you will be required to answer a questionnaire to determine your eligibility to work in Canada as a temporary worker or a permanent resident. Questions may cover several topics including nationality, age, education, work experience, language ability and details on the job you are seeking in Canada. The questionnaire takes about 15 minutes to complete and can be done online. It should be noted that not all jobs require a work permit to work in Canada.

If you're eligible to apply for a work permit, you'll be required to complete an application package. Applications may be completed online or at a visa application centre (VAC) office outside of Canada that serves your country or nationality. You may also apply from inside Canada or as you are entering Canadian borders.

An application package consists of many documents, which may include:

• Application for work permit made outside of Canada
• Application for temporary resident visa
• Two photos meeting the requirements of the visa application
• Your job offer letter or contract from your prospective employer (including job title, wages and conditions)
• A copy of the Labour Market Opinion provided by Employment and Social Development Canada
• Your original passport (if you require a temporary visa)
• A photocopy of the information page of your passport (if you do not require a temporary visa)
• Medical exam (if applicable)
• Police check (if applicable)

The application package will vary depending on the type of work you're applying for.

In most cases, the application must be completed and sent to a Canadian work VAC office outside of Canada that serves your country of nationality for processing. There is also an application processing fee which must be submitted in an acceptable format along with the application package.

The application processing time is dependent upon many factors including where and how you submitted your application and the type of work you will do in Canada.

There are over 130 Canadian VAC's in more than 90 countries worldwide. While it may seem intimidating, applying for a Canadian work visa is a necessary process.