Work Visa for Canada for Indians

A Canada work permit is an official document that allows foreign citizens to work in Canada for a specific period. However, it is often referred to as a Canada work visa by many people. It is essential to note that a work permit differs from a Canada visa, and applicants seeking to work in Canada must obtain a Canada Visitor Visa separately to travel there.

Upon arrival in Canada, individuals with a letter of approval or authorisation from the Embassy of Canada in their home country can obtain a work permit. The permit's validity can be for single or multiple trips, depending on the nature and duration of the job in Canada. It is important to note that the visa requirements for a Canadian work permit may vary depending on your citizenship. For example, Indian citizens may need to obtain an eTA or visitor visa in addition to their work permit.

However, if you have already applied for your work permit, you do not need to pay an extra fee or submit a separate application for your Canadian visitor visa. It means that while Indian citizens applying for a Canadian work permit may require an eTA or visitor visa, they will not have to go through an additional application process or pay an additional fee for their Canadian visitor visa.

The work permit is available temporarily for foreign nationals who wish to work in Canada, including business professionals, international students, caregivers, traders, agricultural workers, intra-company transferees, and investors. Additionally, Indian nationals can obtain a work permit through programs such as IEC (International Experience Canada) or LCP (Live-in Caregiver Program).

Two types of job visas for Canada from India are available for Indian nationals who plan to work in Canada. Choosing the correct work permit that aligns with your needs and circumstances is essential. These two work permit variants available for Canada are:

• Employer-Specific Work Permit: This type of work permit allows the holder to work for a specific employer mentioned in the permit. The work permit holder must comply with the conditions stated on the permit to work legally in Canada. The Employer-Specific Work Permit includes vital information such as the employer's name, location, and duration of work.

• Open Work Permit: This type of work permit allows the holder to work for any employer in Canada except those listed as ineligible. It is typically issued to vulnerable workers who have been victims of abuse under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program in Canada. However, the Open Work Permit prohibits the holder from working for employers who offer services such as erotic massages, striptease, or dance.

To apply for a Canada work visa from India, certain vital documents must be submitted to complete the visa application process. The following is a list of supporting documents that are typically required:

• A valid original passport for the entire tenure of the job, as well as any cancelled or expired passports of the applicant.

• Educational qualification proof of the applicant, including their mark sheet, degree, and certificates.

• Proof of existing work experience. It should include the following:

• a copy of the appointment letter and relieving letter from the previous and current employer,

• copies of salary payslips and Form 16 issued by the employer, and

• a reference letter explaining the duration and nature of the applicant’s job

• Bank statements, income tax returns, and income proof from other sources like investments, property documents, etc.

• Applicant’s contact details, including address and phone number.

• If needed, the application form for a Temporary Resident Visa.

• In case dependent family members are also travelling to Canada, the applicant will have to submit the Family Information Form and a copy of the marriage certificate and birth certificate of the child, if applicable.

• Job offers from the recruiter.

• Additional Documents Needed for Visa Applicants under the LCP (Live-in Caregiver Program)

To apply for the Live-in Caregiver Program, Indian nationals must submit specific documents along with their visa application. Some of the supporting documents that applicants need to provide include the following:

• Proof of completion of a caregiver training course

• Evidence of at least one year of caregiver experience

• Contract of the Live-in Caregiver Program

• Proof of proficiency in English or French language

• Evidence of the employer's financial ability to hire a live-in caregiver, including recent Notice of Assessment (NOA) of the employer and their spouse in Canada

• Family composition of the employer

No matter the type of work permit you have applied for, you need to fulfil specific requirements. To know how to get a Canada work visa from India, you will need to meet the following eligibility criteria for a Canada work permit from India:

• You must convince the immigration officer that you intend to leave Canada after your authorised stay ends.

• You must have enough financial resources to support yourself and your dependents during your stay in Canada and cover your return journey home.

• You must not have a criminal record and may be required to provide a police clearance certificate.

• You must not pose a threat to Canada's security.

• You must be in good health and may require a medical examination.

• You cannot work for an employer on the list of "ineligible" employers as provided on the official website.

• You must provide all the required documents to the immigration officer to prove your eligibility for a Canada work visa.

If an Indian national's Canada work permit application is approved, they will also be issued a visitor visa. Here is a list of what they need to bring along:

• Letter of introduction confirming the approval of the work permit (if available)

• Valid Indian passport with the visitor visa attached

Moreover, the employer in Canada should have completed all the necessary steps to obtain the employer-specific work permit. Additionally, it is vital to meet the COVID-19 testing and quarantine requirements as per the guidelines.

If you're an Indian citizen looking to apply for a Canada Work Visa, you can do it online or through a paper application.

Here are the steps to apply for a Canada Work Visa online:

• Visit the Government of Canada’s official website.

• Open the menu and click on ‘Immigration and Citizenship’.

• Choose the work option to open the relevant page.

• Go to the option of ‘Get a Work Permit’.

• Choose the appropriate type of worker.

• Click on the option of ‘Apply for Work Permit’.

• Select the tab on ‘How to Apply’.

• Scroll down and select the location from where you are applying for the Canada Work Visa.

• Choose ‘Get the application to work in Canada’ from the drop-down menu.

• Select the option of online application and your home country.

• Sign in to your existing account or create a new one.

• Fill out the application form completely and accurately.

• Upload the required supporting documents along with the application form.

• Pay the Canada work permit visa fees online.

• Set an interview at the Canada Visa Application Centre (VAC)

• Provide the details on biometrics at the VAC and get your picture clicked.

• If you are called for a visa interview, then go for it.

• If the application successfully goes through, the applicant will receive an authorized/approval letter from the consulate or the Canadian Embassy.

To apply for a Canada work visa for Indians through a paper application, follow these steps:

• Visit the Government of Canada’s official web portal.

• Open the menu and select ‘Immigration and Citizenship.’

• Select the ‘My application’ option to open the page.

• Click on ‘Find forms and guides.’

• Scroll down and select ‘Application for work permit made outside Canada’ in the drop-down menu.

• Go to the ‘Get the form’ option to download the application form.

• Fill up the downloaded application form.

• Arrange all the documents required to apply for a Canada work visa for Indians.

• Schedule an appointment at the relevant Visa Application Centre (VAC) for Canada.

• Submit your application form and supporting documents at the VAC.

• Give your biometric details and get your picture clicked.

• Pay the Canada work visa cost.

• Attend your visa interview if you are summoned for it.

• Applicants who clear the interview will receive their Authorisation/Approval letters from the Canadian Embassy/Consulate.

Applicants who wish to apply for a Canada work visa from India must pay work permit fees during the application process. The Canadian Embassy/Consulates will only consider the application if the applicant pays the required fees. The work permit fees include the application fee and the biometric fee. Here is a table with the current work permit fees applicable to different types of applicants:

Note: These fees are subject to change, so applicants should confirm the current fees before submitting their application.

As an Indian applicant for a Canada work permit, you should expect a processing time of around 17 weeks, it may be longer if you are not applying for an essential occupation. You may also be required to provide your biometrics, including fingerprints and a photo, which may add additional time to your application.

Note: The processing time does not include the time it takes to send your application between the visa application centre and the Canadian government office, nor the time required for biometric submission.

Here are some reasons that could lead to the rejection of a Canada work visa application:

• Failure to submit accurate and complete supporting documents.

• Criminal background or failure to meet international security standards.

• Inability to demonstrate sufficient financial resources to cover travel and living expenses in Canada.

• Failure to meet health standards or provide required medical documentation.

• More evidence must be needed to convince visa officers of the applicant's intentions and plans while in Canada.

• Past violations of human rights or other legal issues.

If you have applied for a work visa in Canada, you can check the status of your application online through the Canadian government's IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) website. Here are the steps to follow:

• Visit the IRCC website.

• Choose the option that matches your situation, such as "Check your application status" or "Check your eligibility for travel to Canada."

• Enter the required information, such as your application number, details, and passport information.

• Once you have entered all the necessary information, submit your request.

• You will be directed to a page displaying your work visa application status. If your application is still in process, you can see the status updates as they happen.

Canada is a country that offers a plethora of activities and experiences to explore. From skiing and snowboarding down steep slopes in the winter to surfing in the summer to discovering the untouched wilderness, there's never a dull moment here. Canada is also home to friendly people and lively nightlife, making it an exciting destination.

When you're not working in Canada, you'll find plenty of things to keep you occupied. Here are a few of them:

- Watching Sunrise in Newfoundland

Watching the sunrise in Canada is an experience that should not be missed, and waking up early to catch it is well worth it. The province of Newfoundland, located in the easternmost part of Canada, offers some of the country's most stunning sunrise viewing points. L’Anse aux Meadows and Cape Spear are two popular destinations that allow you to witness the beauty of the sunrise at its best.

- Beaching at Wreck Beach

Known as Canada's best clothing-optional beach, this popular tourist attraction is the perfect place to rejuvenate your mind, body, and soul. Whether you want to bask in the sun, listen to music, play casino games or volleyball, or get body art, there's something for everyone here. Soak up the sun, enjoy the scenery, and let loose at this unique and unforgettable destination.

- Shopping at West Edmonton Mall

No weekend in a foreign land is complete without a shopping spree at some of the most famous destinations in the area. Regarding shopping in Canada, the West Edmonton Mall is the ultimate spot to indulge in retail therapy. With over 800 stores and numerous attractions such as a bowling alley, water park, ice palace, and more, it's the perfect place to spend a great day with your loved ones. Whether looking for high-end brands or unique souvenirs, the West Edmonton Mall has something for everyone.

- Canoeing at Banff National Park

Nestled in the heart of Alberta, Banff is Canada's oldest national park and a must-visit destination for travellers of all types. With its breathtaking beauty and awe-inspiring landscapes, it's no wonder that Banff is one of the country's top points of interest. Imagine pristine blue waters surrounded by snow-white mountains, and add a private canoe ride into the mix – a plan sure to entice any adventurer. If you're seeking a truly unforgettable experience in Canada, Banff National Park is the perfect destination for you.

- Watch the Northern Lights at Yukon

Few natural wonders can compare to the beauty of the aurora borealis, and the Yukon is one of the best places to experience this magical phenomenon. Imagine watching the northern lights dance across the sky like a spectacular light show – it's truly a sight worth savouring.

While Canada is one of the top destinations for Indian travellers and is generally considered a safe country, your trip might be disrupted by certain unpleasant and unplanned events, like accidents or illness, delayed or missed flights, cancelled hotel bookings, loss of passport, etc.

Our Tata AIG travel insurance policy can protect you from the sudden financial burden such emergencies posed during your international trip. When a need arises, you can conveniently claim travel insurance policy and get financial coverage to avoid burdening yourself with such unplanned expenses. To know more about a Tata AIG travel insurance plan for your international trips, click here.

- 1. What is the appropriate course of action if a mistake is discovered in a Canada Work Permit that requires correction?

After printing and reviewing your Canada Work Permit by a border services officer, it is crucial to thoroughly examine the document for any errors. If errors are detected on the printed permit, contacting the appropriate border services office for correction promptly is recommended.

- 2. What else do I need besides a Canadian Work Permit to work in Canada?

You will need a 9-digit SIN (Social Insurance Number) and a valid Canadian Work Permit to work in Canada and access government benefits and programs. It's advisable to apply for a SIN at the nearest Service Canada office as soon as possible after you arrive in Canada.

- 3. How can the spouse of a Canadian Work Permit holder work in Canada?

In many cases, the spouse or dependents and common-law partner of a Work Permit holder get by default eligibility for work in Canada. However, they must obtain their Work Permit to do so. They may be able to avail of an Open Work Permit, allowing them to work for any employer in Canada. To apply for an Open Work Permit, the spouse or common-law partner of the Work Permit holder must meet the eligibility criteria and submit their application to the relevant immigration authority.

- 4. Is it possible to reside in Canada permanently?

If you want to live in Canada permanently, you may be eligible to apply for permanent residency through one of the many available immigration programs. Some popular options include the Canadian Provincial Nominee Program, the Express Entry system, and the Agri-Food Pilot.

- 5. Can the dependent children of a Canadian Work Permit holder study or work in Canada?

If you hold a valid Canadian Work Permit, your dependent children may accompany you to Canada. They may be eligible to apply for a Study Permit to study at a Canadian educational institution or a Work Permit to work in Canada.

- 6. What is the process after approval of a Canada work permit application?

After your Canada work permit application is approved, you will receive a PoE (Port of Entry) Letter of Introduction, which confirms your eligibility to work in Canada. This letter is not a work permit but serves as proof of your eligibility, which must be presented at the port of entry when you arrive in Canada.