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Remote workers for foreign employers can live in Canada without work permit as visitors for up to 6 months. No work authorization needed for foreign employment. Can extend stay or apply for work permit.

Electronically linked travel authorization for visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada. Valid for 5 years or until passport expiry. No work or study permitted.

Express Entry program for skilled workers with Canadian work experience. Prioritizes in-Canada work experience to reduce labour shortages.

Express Entry program for skilled tradespeople with journeyperson certification or equivalent. Points-based selection for trades occupations like electricians, carpenters, welders.

Points-based permanent residency program for skilled workers with foreign work experience. Assessed via Comprehensive Ranking System based on age, language, education, and experience.

Youth mobility program allowing young adults (18-35) from eligible countries to work and travel in Canada. Open work permit valid up to 2 years depending on country agreements.

Employer-based work program not requiring Labour Market Impact Assessment. Includes intra-company transfers, Canadian-linked workers, and other economic benefits. Open or employer-specific permits.

Open work permit allowing international graduates to work for any employer in Canada. Duration equals length of study program (8 months to 3 years). Leads to permanent residency pathway.

Provincial immigration programs allowing provinces to nominate skilled workers and entrepreneurs. Each province sets own criteria and allocations. Can use Express Entry or direct stream.

Program for self-employed individuals with relevant experience to start or buy businesses in Canada. Point-based assessment with 35-point pass mark.

Open work permit for spouses and common-law partners of Express Entry and skilled immigrant applicants. Allows work for any employer while permanent residency application is processed. Limited availability as of January 21, 2025.

Program for immigrant entrepreneurs to establish innovative businesses in Canada. PAUSED as of January 1, 2026. No new applications accepted since December 19, 2025.

Official permit for international students to study full-time at designated learning institutions in Canada. Valid for duration of studies plus grace period. Post-graduation work permits available.

Employer-specific work program for Canadian employers to hire temporary foreign workers. Requires positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). 2025 target reduced to 82,000.

Special permit issued under exceptional circumstances for inadmissible foreign nationals. Available to victims of trafficking, family violence, or those in state care. Valid 6-12 months.

Official document for transiting through Canada en route to another country. Valid for 48 hours or less. No application fee required.

Official document allowing foreign nationals to visit Canada for tourism, business meetings, or family visits. Valid for up to 6 months per stay, with visa validity up to 10 years.

Work authorization permitting employment with a specific employer only. Requires Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from employer demonstrating need for foreign worker.

Unrestricted work authorization allowing employment with any Canadian employer. Available in specific circumstances including spouse/partner visa applicants and international graduates.