Dreaming of building a new life in Canada? You’re not alone. Every year, thousands of skilled workers from around the world pack their bags to start a new chapter in the Great White North—and most of them do it through a Canada work visa backed by visa sponsorship from Canadian employers.
But how does it all actually work? What’s a work visa, how do you get sponsored, and what does the journey look like? This guide will walk you through the ins and outs—without all the confusing legal talk.
What Is a Canada Work Visa?
A Canada work visa, often referred to as a work permit, is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows foreign nationals to live and work in Canada for a specific employer, job, and period of time.
There are two main types:
- Employer-specific work permit (also known as a closed work permit)
- Open work permit (lets you work for almost any employer, but has more eligibility restrictions)
In most immigration scenarios involving sponsorship, we’re talking about the employer-specific work permit.
What Is Visa Sponsorship?
Visa sponsorship means that a Canadian employer is offering you a job and is willing to go through the legal process to help you come and work in Canada.
This involves:
- Finding a Canadian employer willing to hire you
- That employer obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (in most cases)
- You applying for a work permit based on that job offer
Let’s break it down further.
Step-by-Step Process to Get a Canada Work Visa with Sponsorship
1. Check If You Qualify
Before anything else, see if your skills are in demand. Canada is constantly updating its list of in-demand jobs, and your occupation may already be on it—especially in fields like:
- Healthcare
- Tech & IT
- Skilled trades (plumbers, electricians, etc.)
- Truck driving and transport
- Agriculture and farming
- Hospitality and food services
2. Find a Job with a Canadian Employer
This is a key step. You can look for sponsored jobs on platforms like:
- Job Bank Canada
- Indeed Canada
- Workopolis
- LinkedIn Jobs Search terms like “LMIA jobs”, “foreign worker”, or “visa sponsorship available” to narrow it down.
3. Employer Applies for LMIA
Most employers will need to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) through Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). This document shows that there is no Canadian worker available to fill the role, and hiring a foreign worker is justified.
Not all jobs require an LMIA—some may be exempt under international trade agreements, reciprocal employment, or significant benefit to Canada categories.
4. Receive a Job Offer and LMIA Approval
Once your employer receives a positive LMIA, they’ll send you:
- A formal job offer letter
- A copy of the LMIA
- The LMIA number
You’ll need all of these to apply for your work permit.
5. Apply for a Work Permit
You can apply online or at a visa application center (VAC) in your country. You’ll need to submit:
- The job offer letter
- The LMIA
- Proof of qualifications (education, work experience, etc.)
- A valid passport
- Medical exams (if required)
- Biometrics
Processing time varies depending on your country, but it typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months.
What If You Want to Stay Longer?
Once you’ve worked in Canada for a while, you might be eligible to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through programs like:
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Express Entry
In many cases, Canadian work experience gives you a big advantage when applying for PR.
Can I Bring My Family?
Yes! In most cases, your spouse or common-law partner can apply for an open work permit, and your children can study in Canada. You’ll need to prove you can support them financially and meet certain requirements.
How Much Does It Cost?
While fees may vary, here’s a general breakdown:
- Work Permit Application: CAD $155
- Biometrics: CAD $85
- LMIA (paid by employer): CAD $1,000
🚨 Beware of Scams
Unfortunately, visa sponsorship scams are common. Always remember:
Use official websites like Canada.ca for guidance.
No legitimate Canadian employer will ask you to pay for a job.
Do your research and verify the employer.
Final Thoughts
Getting a Canada work visa with sponsorship can be life-changing, but it takes careful planning, the right qualifications, and patience. The good news? Canada truly values skilled immigrants, and there are real opportunities if you’re willing to take the first step.
Whether you’re a nurse in Nairobi, a welder in the Philippines, or an IT pro in India—Canada might just be calling your name.
Ready to Start Your Canadian Work Journey?
At Sure Work and Travel, we specialize in assisting individuals like you in navigating the complexities of working abroad. From visa applications to job placement, our team is dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition to your new career in Canada.
Interested in exploring job opportunities in Canada?
Contact Sure Work and Travel today to discover how we can support your journey toward a fulfilling career in Canada.
