Just Landed in Canada? Here’s What You Really Need to Know About Working Here Legally.

May 5

You’re new to Canada. You’re looking for work. But where do you even start?

If you're feeling overwhelmed — you’re not alone. Between figuring out what kind of work permit you have, what your rights are, and what employers aren’t always upfront about… it's A LOT.

That’s why our team here at HR Success Centre created this guide — to walk you through everything step by step, in clear, practical terms without the legal jargon

Quick Disclaimer Before We Begin

This is not legal advice. It’s helpful information to point you in the right direction. Always speak with a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer if you have questions about your unique case.

🛣️ Your Employment Journey in Canada (Step-by-Step)

1. Job Searching: What to Know Before You Apply

Before you hit “apply,” you need to know:

What type of permit you have
⤷ Is it an open work permit (you can work anywhere)?
⤷ Or an employer-specific permit (only one job/employer)?

Confirm You’re Legally Permitted to Work in Canada
⤷ Visitors generally cannot work.
⤷ Some students can work part-time (up to 20 hrs/wk) if eligible.
Understand the Type of Work You’re Authorized to Do
⤷ Some permits restrict the type of job (e.g., no health care roles unless you’ve had a medical exam).

Use this tool to check your permit conditions:
👉 IRCC Work Permit Conditions Tool

2. Interviews & Screening: Should You Disclose Your Status?

This can be tricky. Here’s the honest take:

⤷ You’re not required to share your full immigration story.
⤷ But you should be clear on whether you’re authorized to work in Canada.

Be ready to answer:

⤷ “Are you legally eligible to work in Canada?”

⤷ “Do you require sponsorship now or in the future?”

Tip: If you’re on an open work permit or PGWP, say:

⤷ “Yes, I’m legally authorized to work in Canada. I hold an open work permit valid until [date].”

If you’ll need employer sponsorship in the future (like for PR via an LMIA), it’s better to be honest early on so no one wastes time.

Questions You Might Be Asked During Screening (with Sample Responses)

Navigating job interviews as a newcomer can be tricky. Here are common questions you may encounter, how to respond clearly, and what to avoid.

Legal & Appropriate Questions

Q: What type of work permit do you have?
Employers may ask this to understand your eligibility.
Sample response:

"I have an open work permit, which allows me to work for any employer in Canada."
Or, "I have an employer-specific work permit, and I’m open to discussing next steps if sponsorship becomes necessary."

Q: Will you require sponsorship to continue working in Canada?
This is allowed if framed around long-term employment.
Sample response:

"I’m authorized to work until [insert date]. I’m pursuing permanent residency and open to discussing support options in the future, but I’m ready to start immediately under my current permit."

Q: Can you provide documentation to verify your status?
Employers may request proof of eligibility before finalizing an offer.
Sample response:

"Yes, I can provide a copy of my work permit and supporting documents upon request."

Inappropriate or Illegal Questions (and How to Respond)

Employers should not ask questions related to citizenship, ethnicity, religion, or immigration plans if they’re not directly tied to the job.

Q: Are you a Canadian citizen or permanent resident?
This question is generally not allowed unless citizenship is a job requirement.
Suggested response:

"I’m legally authorized to work in Canada."

Q: Where are you from? / When did you move to Canada?
These can be perceived as discriminatory.
Suggested response:

"I’m currently based in Canada and authorized to work here."

Q: Do you plan to stay in Canada long term?
This is not relevant to your current ability to work.
Suggested response:

"I’m focused on contributing to a great organization and committed to the role."

3. Got the Job? Here's What Employers Might Not Tell You

Here’s what every newcomer should know once they’re hired:

You should never pay for a job.
Recruitment fees are illegal in most provinces.
You have the same labor rights as Canadians.
Even if you're on a temporary permit. This includes:
⤷ Minimum wage
⤷ Breaks and days off
⤷ Protection from unsafe work
You must get a written job offer
Make sure it includes your:
⤷ Title & duties
⤷ Hours
⤷ Wages
⤷ Start date
Employer can’t keep your passport or documents
If they ask — that’s a red flag.

4. During the Job: Know Your Rights

Many newcomers stay quiet out of fear. Don’t. You have rights.

You have the right to:

Report unsafe working conditions
Refuse work that puts your health at risk
Take unpaid sick leave under many provincial laws
Join a union (in applicable sectors)

Learn your province’s labor standards:
👉 Canada Employment Standards by Province

5. Work Permit Expiry: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late

Your work permit isn’t forever. Know when it ends and plan ahead.

Options before expiry:

⤷ Extend your permit

⤷ Apply for Permanent Residency

⤷ Switch to another valid status (like student)

Check processing times and forms:
👉 IRCC Work Permit Extension

Checklist: Before You Accept a Job Offer

⤷ Check your work permit type
Open? Employer-specific? Study permit? Make sure you know what you're allowed to do.

⤷ Confirm you’re legally allowed to work
Review any restrictions or special conditions on your permit.

⤷ Get a written job offer
Always ask for the offer in writing — no verbal-only agreements.

⤷ Know your rights under local laws
Check your province’s employment standards to understand breaks, pay, and working hours.

⤷ Understand your health insurance situation
Some permits (like visitor or closed work permits) may not include provincial health care.

⤷ Keep copies of all documents
This includes your work permit, job offer, pay stubs, and anything you sign.

⤷ Know when your permit expires
Mark the date and plan ahead to renew or apply for permanent residency.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Do I need a work permit if I’m a student?

A: Not always. If your study permit includes a condition that says you can work off-campus, you may work up to 20 hours/week during school and full-time during breaks.