Temporary Workers

Before issuing a Temporary Work Permit, a Canadian employer who wishes to hire a temporary foreign worker must apply for and be granted a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) by ESDC, which will grant a positive LMIA if it is satisfied that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident is available to do the job.

Work permits may be issued by Canadian immigration officials without the LMIA requirement in the following circumstances:

In accordance with international treaties such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA);

• Because of the immense economic, social, and cultural benefits that employment will bring to Canadians.
• As part of reciprocal agreements, Canada and its provinces/territories have entered into youth and teacher exchange programmes with other nations.
• So that international students studying in Canada can complete academic requirements through co-op placements.
• To let spouses/common-law partners of Work Permit and certain Study Permit holders in Canada to work.
• Because the work is philanthropic or religious in nature.
• Recognizing that certain people in Canada require financial support for reasons other than those indicated above, such as filing a refugee claim.