Finding a job and immigrating to Canada is a dream for many Pakistani citizens. With strong employment prospects, high salaries, welcoming work culture and enviable quality of life, Canada offers many amazing career and lifestyle opportunities. The key to finding legal work as a Pakistani citizen is obtaining a Canadian work permit visa.
This comprehensive guide provides step-by-step process on how to get a work permit visa in Canada from Pakistan. Because with right guidance, strong application and meeting eligibility criteria, Pakistani citizens can successfully acquire Canadian work permits for amazing career opportunities.
Also Read: Canadian Student Visa Requirements, Fees, and Application Process for Pakistani Citizens
Types of Canada Work visa
There are two types of Canada work visa from Pakistan:
- Open Work Permit
- Work Permit for Employer or Closed Work Permit
Open Work Permit
This work permit allows the immigrant to work for any employer, even if they do not meet the requirements for a work permit in Canada.
Who is Eligible for an Open Work Permit?
Work authorization Individuals in Canada can apply for this type of permit if they fall into one of the following categories:
- If you are an international student who graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) and are eligible for the PGWP, a Canada work permit for students (Post Graduation Work Permit) will be issued to you.
- A Canadian citizen who has applied for Permanent Residence
- The spouse or common-law partner of an international student or skilled worker who holds a temporary resident permit (TRV) may apply for a Spousal Open Work Permit Visa (SOWP). These Canada Work Permits are flexible, with a processing time of 38 weeks.
Work Permit for Employer or Closed Work Permit
An employer-specific Canada job work permit, as the name suggests, allows the employee to work only for that employer. This work permit visa for Canada application process adheres to the company’s rules and regulations. So, to obtain a closed work permit for Canada, a job offer from a Canadian employer with LMIA approval is required.
Documents required for a work permit to Canada from Pakistan
Some of the required documents, however, may include the following:
- Photocopy of your passport’s information page – passport number, issuance and expiry dates, photo, name, date, and place of birth
- 2 photographs with your name and birth date written on the back
- Proof of current immigration status
- If applicable, a photocopy of your marriage license/certificate
- Proof that you are qualified for the job being offered
Biometrics for Canadian work visas
Your biometrics can be submitted to the VFS office and will be valid for the next ten years. You can use the same biometrics to apply for any type of visa in Canada.
Clearances from the police for work permits in Canada
In most cases, submitting a police clearance certificate along with your Canada work visa is required. The Police clearance certificate is typically processed in 8 weeks.
Medical examination for a Canada work permit
Every person who wants to immigrate or travel to Canada must obtain a medical examination certificate. The following are some of the medical examination tests.
- Weight and height
- Hearing and vision
- Pulse rate
- Blood pressure
- Limb movement
Let us now look at the cost of obtaining a Canada visa from Pakistan. How much money should you need to get this one? is middle-class and low-income people can also get this. How much money should you have in your bank?
Work Permit Visa Costs for Canada from Pakistan
When calculating the costs of obtaining a work permit visa from Pakistan to Canada, several expenses must be considered. The application fee, medical examination fees, and expenses associated with obtaining a police clearance certificate are the primary costs.
The cost of applying for a Canadian work permit visa varies according to the type of permit requested. Typically, it ranges between $155 and $255 CAD. This cost varies depending on whether you apply for an employer-specific permit or an open permit, which allows for greater flexibility in terms of employment opportunities. It’s important to note that if biometrics, such as fingerprinting and a digital photograph, are required as part of the application process, additional fees may apply.
A medical examination may be required for some applicants. This examination ensures that individuals meet the Canadian government’s health standards for entry into the country. While the exact cost of the medical examination varies, it is an additional cost to consider.
Another thing that costs money is getting a police clearance certificate, especially if you’ve lived in several different countries. These documents are required to demonstrate a clean criminal record in each country of residence. The costs and processing times for obtaining police clearance certificates can vary depending on each country’s specific requirements.
In summary, the cost of obtaining a work permit visa from Pakistan to Canada includes several components, including an application fee, potential medical examination costs, and fees for obtaining police clearance certificates. When embarking on the journey to work and live in Canada, applicants should budget accordingly and be prepared for these financial considerations.
Also Read: How to Immigrate to Canada from Pakistan: The Ultimate Guide
Eligibility Criteria for a Work Permit in Canada
- A genuine job offer from an LMIA-approved company
- Proof of Funds for Your Own Needs and Other Expenses
Even if you do not have a valid job offer, you can apply for a Canada Work visa. If your spouse is studying or working in Canada, you are eligible for a Spousal Open Work Permit. You can enter Canada without a job offer and work with valid LMIA-approved or non-LMIA-approved companies after you arrive.
Step-by-step guide of how to apply for a Canada work permit visa from Pakistan
Certainly! Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying for a work permit in Canada from Pakistan. Follow these steps to obtain a visa without any difficulty.
Step 1: Find Out if you’re Eligible
Before you begin the application process, make sure you meet the requirements for a work permit in Canada. In most cases, you will need a job offer from a Canadian employer and, in some cases; a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) is required.
Step 2: Get a Job Offer
Job offer from a Canadian employer is must for apply this visa. Your employer may be required to provide you with an employment contract or job offer letter outlining the specifics of your employment, such as salary, job description, and working conditions.
Step 3: Collect All Required Documents
Prepare all of the necessary documents for your application. Documents that are frequently required include:
- Passport: Check that your passport is valid for the duration of your planned stay in Canada.
- Include a copy of your job offer or employment contract in your offer letter.
- LMIA (if required): Include a copy of your LMIA if your employer requires one.
- Educational Documents: Include copies of your diplomas and transcripts.
- Proof of Funds: Demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and your family members while in Canada.
- Passport-sized Photos: Follow with the Canadian government’s requirements.
- Travel History: Describe your previous travel experiences.
- Police Clearance Certificate: You may be required to submit a police clearance certificate from Pakistan or another country where you have lived.
- Medical Exam: Some applicants may be required to take a medical exam.
Step 4 Fill out the Application Form
You can apply for a work permit online at the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. The form you must complete depends on whether you are applying for an employer-specific work permit, an open work permit, or an IMP work permit.
Step 5 Pay Application Fees
Pay the required application fees online through the IRCC website. Fees may vary depending on your circumstances.
Step 6: Complete and Submit Your Application
Submit your completed application form, along with all supporting documents, to the nearest Canadian visa office or application center in Pakistan. As part of the application process, you may be required to attend a biometrics appointment.
Step 7: Attend an interview or medical exam (if required).
As part of the application process, you may be asked to attend an interview or submit to a medical examination, depending on your circumstances.
Step 8: Await the Decision
Work permit processing times can vary, so check the IRCC website for the most up-to-date information. You can also track the status of your application using the online tool.
Step 9: Obtain Your Work Permit
Your work permit will be issued if your application is approved. Check that all of the information on the permit is accurate.
Step 10: Visit Canada
You can travel to Canada and begin working once you have your work permit.
How long does it take to process a work visa application to Canada?
It is dependent on the visa application for your work visa permit in Canada. It could take up to 8 weeks.
Living expenses
Before you can apply for a visa to Canada, you must ensure that you have enough money to cover your living expenses there. So, before you begin planning your move to Canada, make sure the job you have or are offered pays enough to cover these costs. Here is an estimate of the cost of living in Canada:
1. Accommodation:
The cost of housing in Canada varies greatly depending on the city or region. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a major city like Toronto or Vancouver can range from $1,200 to $2,500 CAD per month. However, rental costs may be lower in smaller cities or suburbs.
2. Food:
Grocery expenses for a single person typically range between $300 and $400 CAD per month. This estimate includes basic food items as well as home cooking. Dining out or ordering takeout could result in extra charges.
3. Transportation
Transportation costs can vary depending on individual circumstances. In most cities, monthly public transportation fares range from $100 to $200 CAD. If you own a car, keep in mind that expenses such as gasoline, insurance, and vehicle maintenance can add to your monthly budget.
4. Healthcare:
The majority of medical services in Canada are covered by a publicly funded healthcare system. However, out-of-pocket expenses for prescription medications, dental care, and eyeglasses may still be incurred. These costs can vary greatly depending on the individual’s healthcare requirements.
5. Miscellaneous Expenses:
This category includes a wide range of monthly expenses such as phone bills, internet services, utilities (electricity, water, and heating), and entertainment. Depending on your lifestyle and choices, miscellaneous expenses may total $200 to $300 CAD per month.
It’s important to note that these figures may differ depending on your personal preferences, family size, and the city or province in Canada where you live. Individuals with families may also have higher expenses due to extra costs such as childcare and education. As a result, budgeting and financial planning are critical for a smooth transition to living and working in Canada.
Also Read: Tales of a Travelers Journey: Exploring Cultures and Nurturing the Soul
Can I bring my family to Canada with my work permit?
The short answer is big no. “It is not possible to bring your family to Canada while you work there. Your work permit only applies to you; it does not cover your spouse, partner, or children. To accompany you, each member of your family must apply for their own visa. Your spouse or partner is eligible to apply for an open work permit, and your dependent children are eligible to apply for study permits. Make sure you have enough money to support them during their stay and begin the application process as soon as possible, gathering all required documentation. If you intend to stay in Canada for an extended period of time, you should consider applying for permanent residency.
How can I extend my Canadian work permit?
To extend your Canadian work permit, you must first ensure that you are eligible for an extension, whether you have a job-specific or open work permit. Apply at least 30 days before your current permit expires, and make sure your passport is valid for the duration of the work permit. The application process consists of filling out an online application on the IRCC website, attaching required documents (such as your current work permit, proof of employment, and passport), and paying the application fee (usually $155 for job-specific permits and $255 for open permits, with no additional biometric fees if you’ve previously provided them).
You can continue working while your extension is being processed if you applied before your old permit expired and your job details remain the same. If your job conditions change, you must wait for your new work permit to be approved before beginning the new job. Keep an eye on the status of your application on the IRCC website. If necessary, seek assistance from IRCC or an immigration consultant. That’s all there is to it; once approved, you’ll get your extended work permit.
Can I get permanent residence in Canada if I have a work permit?
Simply having a work permit in Canada does not make you a permanent resident (PR). However, the work experience you gain in Canada may help you later qualify for PR.
You can apply for PR through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program if you have worked in certain job categories for at least one year. This program is designed for people who have worked in Canada.
If you intend to apply for PR through another program, such as the Federal Skilled Worker or Federal Skilled Trades, having Canadian work experience may give you an advantage. These extra points can increase your chances of becoming a permanent resident significantly.
In simple terms, having a work permit is a step toward PR, but it doesn’t guarantee it. Your work experience can help you qualify for PR through different immigration programs.
Conclusion
With right guidance, strong application and meeting eligibility criteria, professionals in Pakistan can successfully acquire Canadian work permits for amazing career and lifestyle opportunities. The key is finding a job offer from an LMIA-approved employer, gathering proper documents, submitting a complete visa application, and showcasing ties that will compel your return home after the work permit validity. This guide provides comprehensive details on the step-by-step process for Pakistani citizens to obtain temporary work visas as a pathway to fulfilling their Canadian immigration dreams.
FAQs
What are the work permit processing times?
Work permits generally take 2-3 months to process. Exact time varies per applicant.
What is the cost to apply for work permit?
Work permit fees are $155 for employer-specific and $255 for open permit. Add biometrics fee if needed.
Can I apply for jobs before getting the work permit?
Yes, you can search job postings and apply. But cannot start working until permit is approved.
How long can I work in Canada on permit?
Initial work permits are commonly valid for up to 3 years. Can be extended as long as you maintain eligibility.
Can I get a work visa without a job offer?
Yes, spouses of workers/students can get open work permit without job offer. Some other exceptions also exist.
