WORKING IN CANADA, THE RIGHT WAY
Work in Canada legally: work permits, jobs and how to start
The legal pathways, a step-by-step guide and real jobs in Canada. No false promises and never a fee for candidates.
Which pathway fits you?
Anyone who is not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident needs a work permit to work in Canada. In most cases it all starts with a job offer.
Temporary foreign worker
The employer asks the government for an assessment (LMIA) showing no Canadians were available for the job. Since 2024, low-wage jobs have been restricted in cities with high unemployment; agriculture and some sectors are exempt.
Seasonal agricultural program
Seasonal farm work under a contract agreed between governments. In Mexico, applicants register through the Ministry of Labour (Servicio Nacional de Empleo), not directly with the employer.
Professionals from Mexico and the U.S.
Professions on the Canada–U.S.–Mexico agreement list (engineers, accountants, systems analysts and others), with a job offer and the required education. No LMIA needed.
Study and work
With a study permit you can usually work part-time during classes, up to a weekly hour limit. After some programs, a post-graduation work permit may be available.
Working Holiday and young professionals
Work permits for young people from participating countries. Brazil does not participate; check the official list to see if your country is included.
Permanent residence
Express Entry uses points (age, education, English or French, work experience). Provinces also run their own programs. Speaking French and having Canadian experience usually help a lot.
Step by step
- 1 Choose your pathway See above which permit fits your citizenship, education and the kind of work you want.
- 2 Get your resume and language ready Sign up for free on Look Jobs and create your resume in English. For many pathways, a passed English or French test makes a difference.
- 3 Find an employer that hires foreign workers Browse our partners’ Canadian listings and the government’s Job Bank. To apply, use the contact in the job post.
- 4 Apply for the work permit With the offer (and the LMIA, when required), you apply for the work permit with the Canadian government (IRCC), usually online.
⚠️ Watch out for scams
- In the temporary foreign worker program, employers cannot charge workers for LMIA costs or recruitment fees.
- No one can sell you an “LMIA” or guarantee a work permit: the Government of Canada decides.
- A visitor visa or eTA does not allow you to work.
- Be wary of anyone asking for a deposit or a “registration fee”. On Look Jobs you can report any suspicious job with one click.
Frequently asked questions
Can Brazilians and Mexicans work in Canada?
Yes, with a work permit. Common pathways are temporary foreign worker (with a job offer and LMIA), study and, for those who want to stay, permanent residence. Mexicans can also use the seasonal agricultural program and, if they are professionals, the CUSMA category.
Do I need English or French?
For most jobs, yes. In Quebec, French is the main language. For permanent residence programs, a passed language test is mandatory and earns points.
How much does it cost?
Look Jobs is free for candidates. Permits have Government of Canada fees. In the temporary foreign worker program, the employer pays the LMIA costs and cannot pass them on to the worker.
Can I bring my family?
It depends on the permit and the job level. The rules for spouses and children changed in 2025: check the Government of Canada website before planning.
Can Look Jobs get me a work permit?
No. No website can guarantee a work permit. Look Jobs shows real jobs and helps you prepare your resume and reach employers; the Government of Canada decides.
Sign up, create your resume in English and get new job alerts.
This text is for information only and does not replace advice from a licensed immigration consultant or a lawyer. Canada’s rules changed a lot in 2024–2026: always confirm on the official websites. Updated October 2026.
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