Canada Releases Work Permit Guide for Nigerians: Visitor Visa Does Not Allow Employment

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has clarified that a visitor visa or electronic travel authorisation (eTA) does not give foreign nationals the right to work in Canada. The Canadian government reminded applicants that a valid work permit and eligibility requirements must be met before starting any job.

Two Main Work Permit Types

Canada offers two main types of work permits for foreign nationals, with different eligibility rules and application routes depending on individual circumstances. The employer-specific work permit is normally tied to a particular employer and generally requires a job offer. It may specify the employer, location and type of work the holder is authorised to perform.

An open work permit, on the other hand, does not generally require a specific job offer. However, applicants must belong to a category that qualifies for an open work permit. IRCC advises prospective workers to establish their eligibility before submitting an application, as the requirements differ.

Application Routes and Important Steps

Foreign nationals can apply for a Canadian work permit through different routes, depending on their eligibility. Applications may be made from outside Canada, from inside Canada or, in limited circumstances, at a port of entry. Not every applicant qualifies to use all three options.

Prospective applicants can create or sign into an IRCC account and review the requirements. They can also check estimated processing times and monitor their application through Canada's official immigration platform. For those still searching for employment, Canada's Job Bank provides information about available positions, including some opportunities open to foreign candidates.

IRCC has separate rules for certain groups, including international graduates, students, participants in International Experience Canada programmes and some family members of foreign workers. Some foreign nationals may also be allowed to work without a permit under specific exemptions. However, applicants should confirm that an exemption applies before accepting employment.

After the Work Permit

Getting a work permit is not the end of the process. Foreign workers may need to obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN), understand their workplace rights and comply with all conditions attached to their permits. Workers facing workplace abuse can also access Canadian government procedures designed to address abusive employment situations.

Depending on their circumstances, foreign workers may later be able to extend their permits, change employers where permitted, restore their status or explore pathways toward permanent residence.

In-Demand Occupations in Canadian Provinces

Several Canadian provinces have identified occupations considered in demand and created immigration pathways targeting foreign workers with experience in those fields. The provinces include Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Saskatchewan, Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, Quebec, Alberta and Prince Edward Island.

Warning Against Unauthorised Work

The Canadian government has warned foreign nationals against working without the required authorisation, as unauthorised employment can lead to serious immigration consequences.

For Nigerians planning to work in Canada, the message is straightforward: a visitor visa or eTA may allow you to travel to Canada as a visitor, but it does not automatically allow you to work. Anyone planning to take up employment should identify the appropriate work-permit category, satisfy the eligibility requirements and obtain the necessary authorisation before beginning work.