For Italian passport holders seeking a work visa in Canada, here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Determine Eligibility
- Job Offer: Secure a valid job offer from a Canadian employer. For most work permits, this is necessary.
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Most Canadian employers must obtain a positive LMIA, showing that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market. Some work permits, such as through international agreements like CETA, may not require an LMIA.
2. Types of Work Permits
Depending on your situation, choose the appropriate work permit:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit: Tied to a specific employer. Requires an LMIA in most cases.
- Open Work Permit: Not tied to a specific employer, available in limited cases such as spousal permits or working holidays.
3. Apply for a Work Permit
- Go to the Government of Canada’s official website and create an account or sign in to IRCC (Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada).
- Gather required documents such as:
- A valid passport.
- Job offer and LMIA (if required).
- Proof of financial support.
- Medical exam results (if necessary).
- Biometrics (photograph and fingerprints).
- Complete the application forms available online.
4. Submit the Application
- Pay the application fee (approximately CAD 155, with additional fees for biometrics).
- Submit the completed application online or via mail.
5. Wait for Processing
- Processing times vary depending on the type of work permit and the applicant’s country of residence.
- You may be required to attend an interview or provide additional documents.
6. Receive Decision
- If approved, you will receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction. Present this to Canadian immigration authorities upon entry.
7. Entry to Canada
- Upon arrival in Canada, present your POE Letter, passport, and any other requested documents to a border officer, who will issue your work permit.
8. Start Working
Once the work permit is issued at the port of entry, you are legally allowed to work in Canada under the conditions specified on your permit.
For specific details on visa types and LMIA exemptions under trade agreements like CETA, refer to Canada’s official immigration website or consult the CETA guidelines.
