How to Get a Work Visa for Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide for Indians (2025)

How to Get a Work Visa for Canada: A Step-by-Step Guide for Indians (2025)

Dreaming of working in Canada? You’re not alone. With world-class cities, high salaries, and a better quality of life, Canada is one of the top destinations for skilled professionals from India. But getting a work visa can feel confusing. That’s why we created this step-by-step guide just for you.

1. Types of Work Visas for Canada

There are two main types of work permits:

• Employer-Specific Work Permit: You work for a specific employer in Canada.
• Open Work Permit: You can work for any employer (usually for spouses, post-grads, etc.).

Most Indians apply under Employer-Specific Work Permit, through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or International Mobility Program (IMP).

2. Eligibility Requirements

You may be eligible if:

• You have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer
• The employer has a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (unless exempt)
• You meet language requirements (IELTS score of 6+)
• You can prove enough funds and a clear background

3. Documents You Need

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Job offer letter or employment contract
• LMIA approval (if required)
• IELTS or CELPIP language test results
• Resume & educational certificates
• Medical exam (for some jobs)
• Proof of funds

4. How to Apply (Step-by-Step)

1. Get a Job Offer from a Canadian employer (use job portals like Job Bank, Indeed, etc.)
2. Employer applies for LMIA (if needed)
3. Receive LMIA + job letter
4. Create account on IRCC website
5. Fill out work permit application
6. Upload all documents
7. Pay the application fee (CAD $155)
8. Give biometrics
9. Wait for processing and approval
10. Fly to Canada and start your job!

5. Cost of Getting a Work Visa

6. Processing Time

• Average processing time: 8–12 weeks
• May vary by job, LMIA status, and country

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incorrect or incomplete documents
• Applying without a proper job offer
• Not checking LMIA requirement
• Low IELTS score
• Ignoring timelines

8. Useful Link

• Canada Work Permit Eligibility
• Find Jobs in Canada – Job Bank
• IELTS Test Registration

9. Final Tips from Paradeshi.com

• Start preparing your resume in Canadian format early
• Build a LinkedIn profile and connect with recruiters
• Research provinces with high demand for your job (e.g. Ontario, Alberta)
• Consider Express Entry for permanent residency later

Got Questions?

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