Temporary Residence
Work and Study
Work and study permits are often the first step toward permanent residence. Gain Canadian experience and open new doors.
Working and Studying in Canada: Your Complete Guide
Canada welcomes over 700,000 temporary workers and 800,000 international students annually. For many, work and study permits serve as the first step toward permanent residence through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP).
Why Choose Canada for Work or Study?
Canada offers world-class education at competitive rates compared to the US and UK. International students can work part-time during studies and full-time during breaks. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates to work in Canada for up to 3 years, gaining valuable Canadian experience that counts toward permanent residence applications.
For workers, Canada's strong economy offers excellent salaries, benefits, and work-life balance. The Francophone Mobility program allows French speakers to obtain LMIA-exempt work permits for positions outside Quebec, significantly simplifying the immigration process.
Strategic Planning Is Key
The right permit choice today can significantly impact your path to permanent residence. Our RCIC consultants help you choose the optimal strategy based on your long-term goals, whether that's gaining Canadian work experience, completing studies, or both.
Work Permits
Several options depending on your situation and employer.
Work Permit with LMIA
2-4 monthsEmployer-specific work permit based on an approved LMIA job offer.
- Job offer from a Canadian employer
- Positive LMIA from employer
- Qualifications for the position
Francophone Mobility
2-8 weeksLMIA-exempt work permit for Francophones outside Quebec.
- Be a Francophone
- Job offer TEER 0, 1, 2 or 3
- Destination outside Quebec
Working Holiday Visa (WHV)
4-8 weeksOpen work permit for young people from participating countries.
- Participating country (France, UK, etc.)
- 18-35 years old depending on country
- Valid passport
Young Professionals
4-8 weeksEmployer-specific work permit in your field of study.
- Participating country
- Post-secondary diploma
- Job offer in your field
Open Work Permit (Spouse)
4-12 weeksFor spouses of skilled workers or students.
- Spouse with skilled work permit (TEER 0-3)
- Or student spouse (certain programs)
- Proof of relationship
Intra-Company Transfer
2-8 weeksFor employees transferred within a multinational company.
- 1 year of employment with the company abroad
- Executive, manager or specialist position
- Related company in Canada
Study Permits
Study in Canada and build your future.
Study Permit
4-16 weeksTo study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Requirements
- Letter of acceptance from a DLI
- CAQ for Quebec
- Proof of sufficient funds
- Intent to leave Canada after studies
Benefits
- Work 24h/week during studies
- Work full-time during scheduled breaks
- Open work permit for spouse (depending on program)
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
4-12 weeksOpen permit after graduating from an eligible program.
Requirements
- Diploma from a DLI in Canada
- Program of at least 8 months
- Apply within 180 days of completion
- Valid study permit
Benefits
- Duration: 8 months to 3 years depending on program
- Work for any employer
- Canadian experience for Express Entry (CEC)
Your Path to Permanent Residence
Temporary permits are often the first step. Here's how to transition to permanent residence.
Study or Work
Get a temporary permit
Canadian Experience
1 year of skilled work
Express Entry
CEC or FSW with bonus points
Permanent Residence
Your new status
Ready to Start Your Canadian Adventure?
Whether you want to study, work, or both, we help you find the best path to your goal.