Work in Canada
Most people need authorization to work in Canada, and the right permit depends on the job, employer, applicant, and location.
General information
- Employer-specific permits set conditions such as the employer, location, and length of work.
- Open work permits are available only in specific situations.
- Eligibility and application instructions depend on the permit type and where the applicant applies.
Study in Canada
A study permit allows eligible foreign nationals to study at a designated learning institution in Canada.
General information
- Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada.
- Applicants should obtain the required documents and normally apply before travelling to Canada.
- Students must continue meeting the conditions attached to their permit while studying.
Permanent Residence
Canada has several permanent-residence pathways, each with its own eligibility rules, evidence, and selection process.
General information
- Economic pathways include Express Entry and provincial or regional programs.
- Family sponsorship is a separate permanent-residence pathway.
- Eligibility for one program does not automatically mean eligibility for another.
Family Sponsorship
Eligible sponsors may be able to help certain family members become permanent residents of Canada.
General information
- Programs cover spouses or partners, dependent children, adopted children, and certain other relatives.
- Both the sponsor and the person being sponsored must meet the applicable requirements.
- Program availability and procedures differ by family category.
Status Extensions
Temporary residents should understand the expiry date and conditions of their status before deciding how to remain in Canada longer.
General information
- A visitor record can extend visitor status, but it is not a visa.
- Work, study, and visitor status have different extension procedures.
- Applying before current status expires can be important to maintaining legal status while a decision is pending.
Not Sure Where to Begin
The appropriate starting point depends on your goal, background, family situation, status, and supporting evidence.
General information
- Immigration programs have different eligibility and application requirements.
- Relevant factors can include age, language ability, education, work experience, family, finances, and job offers.
- Eligibility tools provide general guidance only; an officer decides any submitted application.
Refusals & Complex Cases
The refusal letter and the evidence submitted should be reviewed before deciding whether to reapply or pursue another remedy.
General information
- A refusal letter identifies the officer’s reasons for the decision.
- Reapplying with the same information will likely not change the result.
- New information should directly address the refusal reasons; hiring a representative does not guarantee approval.
