Working in Canada is a dream for most people looking for lucrative employment opportunities outside their native countries. Luckily, the government accepts people from various parts of the world to come and explore work opportunities. To qualify for this program, you must meet particular requirements, including a working visa. Take a look at what you need to do before, during, and after the application.
What Is a Work and Travel Visa?
A work and travel visa permits foreigners looking for employment opportunities in Canada to travel into and work in the country. A working visa allows you to work in the country for a specific period. Once the permit expires, you must move back to your native land.
You can get a working visa if you want to apply for job opportunities in Canada or if your employer wants to send you to oversee particular tasks in the region on behalf of the company.
Who Can Apply for This Visa?
Applications for a working visa are open to individuals from particular countries globally. You can only apply for this visa if you have a job invitation from a Canadian company and a supporting letter from the labor market impact assessment.
You can also apply for this document if you have a clean police record and are not wanted for tyrosine=m and other crimes against humanity.
Requirements And Documentation Needed
Before applying for this permit, you must source a couple of documents that will make it easier for you to complete your application successfully. The following requirements are mandatory:
- A labor market impact assessment (LMIA)
- The duplicate of your employment letter
- An employer-specific permit
- An offer of employment number
- Biometrics
- CV or resume
- Proof that you have the required skills to fill the position
- Valid passport
- Medical exam
- Police certificates
- Application fees
- Passport-sized photos (recent)
You must also prove you have the financial muscle to sustain yourself during your stay in the country and ascertain you will leave Canada once your contract ends.
Where and How to Apply
The immigration office allows applicants to utilize three options when applying for this document. You can use the online portal to send your application. It provides plenty of options to pick from that suit your work situation. Ensure you read and follow all instructions before applying.
If you are abroad, you can also apply for this document online or through the Canadian embassy to your government. You can also mail your application to the immigration department or do it in person at a port of entry or the main immigration office if you are within Canada.
A visa extension is possible if the contract is extended, but you must do this at least thirty days before your current one expires to allow ample processing time.
You can also claim back your taxes before you leave. Claiming your taxes is on a case-to-case basis and depends on the longevity of your stay. If you are a resident for less than a year, you can claim certain tax reimbursements from the federal government. After a year in Canada, you are not eligible to claim tax refunds.
What Happens After You Apply
Once you’ve submitted your request, you should schedule a biometrics appointment with the Canadian embassy in your country. Following the approval of your application, you will receive an authorization letter with all key details allowing you to work in Canada.
Cost, Validity, And Processing Time
Processing this document costs $155, but the cost may increase depending on your job position and the number of people applying for a working visa simultaneously. The permit is valid for one to two years, depending on your job descriptions and the LMIA recommendations. Individuals should wait 4 – 6 weeks after the application date for communication regarding the status of the application.
