What documents are required for legal employment in Canada?

It is the dream of every newcomer to work legally in Canada. But to do so, you will need documents, the final list of which will depend on your status in the country, the province you are in, and the field you plan to work in.

Start by obtaining a visa or work permit

Citizens of many countries need a visa to enter Canada legally. The conditions for obtaining a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) depend on your citizenship. Along with a visa, which is required to cross the border, you will definitely need a work permit. There are two types of work permits:

• Employer-specific work permit allows you to work only for a specific employer. With this type of permit, you cannot change jobs, so weigh all the advantages and disadvantages of your future work.
• Open work permit is an open work permit that allows you to work for any employer. As a rule, this document is issued to international students after graduation or to Ukrainians who came to Canada under the CUAET program).

Main documents

**In order to obtain a work permit, you need to prepare the following documents

• a completed application form;
• a copy of a valid passport and a biometric photo;
• a job offer from the employer to confirm that you have been offered a job;
• in some cases, you will need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) - a document stating that there are no local candidates for the position;
• Diplomas, certificates, resumes and other documents confirming your education and work experience.

Additional documents

In some cases, a criminal background check and medical test may be required. Criminal background checks are often requested if you will be working with minors or property. A medical certificate, which usually requires a blood test and an x-ray, is requested by healthcare and educational institutions. If you are already in Canada, you will need a SIN number, a local bank account, and a direct deposit form to officially apply for a job. The process of legal employment in Canada can be complicated and time-consuming. Check information and official sources, such as the website of the Government of Canada or the consulate, to get detailed instructions for your situation. You can also consult an immigration consultant or lawyer if you are unsure about your case.