Top Jobs That Do not Require a Work Permit in Canada
Discover the top jobs in Canada that don't require a work permit, how to find LMIA-approved job opportunities, and the importance of understanding work permit exemptions. Learn about Canadian companies that sponsor foreign workers and how to navigate the LMIA process for a successful job search in Canada.

IMMERGITY Immigration Consultant
Mar 22, 2023
Canada is an attractive destination for foreign workers seeking employment opportunities. However, not all jobs require a work permit, and understanding these exemptions can be beneficial for individuals exploring their options. This article will provide an overview of the top jobs that don't require a work permit in Canada and offer insights into companies that sponsor foreign workers.
Table of Contents
Working Without a Work Permit in Canada
Explanation of work permit exemptions
Criteria for working without a work permit
Top Jobs That Don't Require a Work Permit
Business visitors
Foreign representatives and their family members
Military personnel
Foreign government officers
International students working on-campus
Performing artists
Athletes and team members
News reporters and film crews
Public speakers and seminar leaders
Clergy and religious workers
Canadian Companies Offering Work Permits
Brief overview of the process for Canadian companies to sponsor foreign workers
Importance of securing a job offer from a Canadian employer
Canadian Companies That Sponsor Foreign Workers
List of industries and companies known to sponsor foreign workers
Tips for finding job opportunities with sponsoring companies
Positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Employers List
Explanation of the LMIA process and its significance
Benefits of securing a job with an LMIA-approved employer
Working Without a Work Permit in Canada
While most foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada, there are specific jobs and situations that are exempt from this requirement. To be eligible for a work permit exemption, the individual's job or circumstances must fall under one of the categories outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Understanding these exemptions can save time and effort when searching for employment opportunities in Canada.
Top Jobs That Don't Require a Work Permit
There are several jobs and categories where individuals can work in Canada without obtaining a work permit. Some of these include:
Business Visitors
Foreign nationals visiting Canada for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or conducting site visits, can work without a work permit for a short duration.
Foreign Representatives and their Family Members
Diplomats and consular officers, as well as their family members, are exempt from work permit requirements.
Military Personnel
Members of foreign armed forces stationed in Canada under the Visiting Forces Act do not require a work permit.
Foreign Government Officers
Certain foreign government officers on official duties in Canada can work without a work permit.
International Students Working On/off-Campus
Full-time international students enrolled in Canadian educational institutions can work on-campus without a work permit.
*Off campus work has restrictions.
Performing Artists
Performers participating in cultural or artistic events, such as musicians or theater artists, can work without a work permit in specific circumstances.
Athletes and Team Members
Professional athletes and essential team personnel can work in Canada without a work permit.
News Reporters and Film Crews
Journalists, reporters, and essential crew members working for foreign news organizations can work without a work permit.
Public Speakers and Seminar Leaders
Guest speakers and seminar leaders participating in events lasting no longer than five days do not require a work permit.
Clergy and Religious Workers
Clergy and religious workers providing spiritual guidance or leading religious services are exempt from work permit requirements.
Canadian Companies Offering Work Permits
For those who do require a work permit, it's crucial to secure a job offer from a Canadian employer. Some Canadian companies are more likely to sponsor foreign workers and offer work permits, depending on their industry and labor needs.
Canadian Companies That Sponsor Foreign Workers
Some industries and companies are known for sponsoring foreign workers in Canada. These may include:
Technology companies
Engineering firms
Healthcare organizations
Financial institutions
Educational institutions
Construction companies
Researching and targeting job opportunities with companies known to sponsor foreign workers can increase your chances of obtaining a work permit.
Positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) Employers List
In many cases, a Canadian employer must obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before hiring a foreign worker. An LMIA demonstrates that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill a job and that no Canadian worker is available to do so. Securing a job with an LMIA-approved employer can significantly increase your chances of obtaining a work permit.
Steps to find LMIA approved jobs using Canada Job Bank
The Canada Job Bank is an online platform that connects job seekers with potential employers across the country. One of its features is the ability to search for jobs that have been approved by a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which is required for many work permit applications.
Here are the steps to find LMIA-approved jobs using the Canada Job Bank:
Step 1: Visit the Canada Job Bank website
Navigate to the Canada Job Bank website at https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/. The site is available in both English and French, so choose your preferred language.
Step 2: Create an account (optional)
While you can search for jobs without creating an account, signing up for a Job Bank account offers additional benefits, such as saving your search preferences and receiving email alerts for new job postings that match your criteria. To create an account, click on "Sign in" in the top-right corner of the page, and then click "Sign up" to complete the registration process.
Step 3: Start your job search
On the Job Bank homepage, you'll find a search bar where you can enter keywords related to your job search, such as your desired job title or industry. You can also enter the location where you'd like to work, either by city or postal code.
For example, if you're looking for a software developer position in Toronto, enter "software developer" in the keyword field and "Toronto" in the location field.
Step 4: Filter your search results for LMIA-approved jobs
Once you've entered your search criteria and clicked the "Search" button, you'll be directed to a page with a list of job postings. To narrow down your search results to LMIA-approved jobs, click on the "Filters" button located above the list of job postings. In the "Job source" section, select the checkbox for "Jobs with LMIA (Employer Provided)." This will update your search results to display only jobs with a positive LMIA.
Step 5: Review job postings and apply
Browse through the list of LMIA-approved job postings to find positions that match your skills, qualifications, and interests. Click on a job title to view the complete job posting, which will provide information about the job description, requirements, salary, and application instructions. Follow the application instructions provided by the employer to submit your application for the desired position.
Step 6: Set up email alerts (optional)
If you've created a Job Bank account, you can set up email alerts to receive notifications when new LMIA-approved job postings that match your search criteria are added to the site. To do this, click on the "Create an alert" button located above the list of job postings on the search results page. You'll receive an email notification whenever a new LMIA-approved job is posted that matches your search preferences.
By following these steps, you can efficiently search for and apply to LMIA-approved jobs on the Canada Job Bank. This can be a valuable resource for foreign workers seeking employment opportunities in Canada that may lead to a work permit application.
Here's a list of employers who issued Positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to Temporary Foreign Workers in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which company can issue LMIA in Canada?
A: Any Canadian company can apply for an LMIA if they meet the eligibility requirements set by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The company must demonstrate that they are unable to find a suitable Canadian or permanent resident to fill the position and that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the Canadian labor market.
Q: How do I find my LMIA approved company in Canada?
A: You can search for LMIA-approved jobs on the Canada Job Bank website, as explained in the previous answer. Additionally, some companies may advertise LMIA-approved positions on their own websites or other job search platforms. Networking and connecting with professionals in your field may also lead to information about LMIA-approved job opportunities.
Q: How do I get an employer with LMIA in Canada?
A: To find an employer with an LMIA in Canada, you can search for job postings on the Canada Job Bank or other job search platforms, attend job fairs and networking events, and leverage your professional network to identify potential employers with LMIA-approved positions.
Q: What jobs are eligible for LMIA?
A: Most jobs in Canada are potentially eligible for LMIA, as long as the employer meets the requirements set by ESDC. These requirements include advertising the position to Canadian citizens and permanent residents, demonstrating that no suitable local candidates are available, and proving that hiring a foreign worker will not negatively impact the Canadian labor market.
Q: How much does LMIA cost?
A: The processing fee for an LMIA application is CAD $1,000 per position requested. This fee must be paid by the employer and cannot be passed on to the foreign worker.
Q: Can LMIA lead to PR?
A: Yes, obtaining a job with a positive LMIA can potentially lead to permanent residency (PR) in Canada. Many foreign workers use the Express Entry system, which awards points based on factors such as work experience, education, and language proficiency. Having an LMIA-approved job offer can significantly increase your Express Entry points, improving your chances of receiving an invitation to apply for PR.
Q: How long does LMIA approval take?
A: The processing time for an LMIA application varies depending on factors such as the job category and the volume of applications received by ESDC. Typically, the processing time ranges from a few weeks to a few months. Employers are encouraged to apply well in advance of the anticipated start date for the foreign worker.
Q: How long is LMIA valid?
A: An LMIA is generally valid for six months from the date of issuance. The foreign worker must apply for a work permit within this period. If the work permit application is not submitted within six months, the employer may need to apply for a new LMIA.
Q: Who pays the LMIA fee?
A: The employer is responsible for paying the LMIA application fee. It is illegal for the employer to pass the cost onto the foreign worker, either directly or indirectly.
Ready to take the next step towards working in Canada? Let Immergity Immigration Consultant guide you through the work permit application process, ensuring a smooth and successful experience. Our team of dedicated professionals is here to help you navigate the complex immigration system and find the best pathway tailored to your unique situation.
Book your appointment with Immergity Immigration Consultant today and embark on your exciting journey to a fulfilling career in Canada!