Getting a work permit during Outland App (US)

[ConfusedCouple]

Hello,

I was wondering if anyone here has any experience in obtaining a work permit during their outland application? I am in Canada on "implied status" waiting for an extension on my visitor's record and through a family member there is a job opening for me.

I have a few questions which are: 1) Will I be able to get a work permit while in the process of being sponsored? 2) Does work permit only apply to skilled jobs? 3) Is it better for me to just wait until I get my PR rather than waiting for a work permit?

 

[scylla]

You can certainly get a work permit provided you meet the work permit criteria - no work permits don't only apply to skilled jobs.

To apply for a work permit you'll need a full time job offer and an approved LMIA from your employer.

 

[Aquakitty]

To get an LMIA, the employer needs to prove the following:

-there is no Canadian worker available to do the job (they must prove they used certain kinds of advertising unsuccessfully)
-there is a need for the foreign worker to fill the job offer
-hiring a foreign worker will not negatively affect the Canadian labour market

and pay a fee (I think it's $1000). There are some jobs that have exceptions to these rules: http://www.esdc.gc.ca/en/foreign_workers/hire/variations.page

If you are 30 or under you can try for the SWAP program.

 

[ConfusedCouple]

Thank you! I've never heard of the SWAP Program before. However is it worth it for me applying for a work permit if the processing times are really quick right now? I only ask, because I hear work permit can take a while.

 

[Aquakitty]

Thank you! I've never heard of the SWAP Program before. However is it worth it for me applying for a work permit if the processing times are really quick right now? I only ask, because I hear work permit can take a while.

In my opinion, not at all. It's a big pain in the rear. You are better off making use of your time to learn a new skill or something. Again, just my opinion.

 

[Rob_TO]

Thank you! I've never heard of the SWAP Program before. However is it worth it for me applying for a work permit if the processing times are really quick right now? I only ask, because I hear work permit can take a while.

SWAP i believe is only available to those who recently went to school in the US.

Work permit through LMIA process, your potential employer would need to do most of the work. Unless the job requires a specific skill, it will be very tough to get.

Last option is finding a job that qualifies under NAFTA list and assuming you have necessary education/experience.

 

[Aquakitty]

You can get around the school issue by registering in at least 3 courses at a community college. Then, drop out at your leisure. May not be the most ethical thing to do however.

 

[CDNPR2014]

You are better off making use of your time to learn a new skill or something. Again, just my opinion.

also, i know in ontario, visitors married or commonlaw to a canadian citizen can enjoy the canadian rates at most (if not all) colleges. can't speak for all provinces. as long as it's not violating visitor status it's definitely worth checking out to get a head start for future career choices. it's a significant difference in pricing. of course this is somethng i leared AFTER getting pr status.

 

[scylla]

Thank you! I've never heard of the SWAP Program before. However is it worth it for me applying for a work permit if the processing times are really quick right now? I only ask, because I hear work permit can take a while.

You have to qualify for the work permit before you can apply for it - otherwise it's going to end in a refusal.

Are you in school or very recently out of school? If so, look into SWAP.

Otherwise you need a job offer and most likely also an approved LMIA BEFORE you can even think about applying for a work permit. Note that LMIA processing can take anywhere from a few week to over four months.