The Basics

Working in Canada, start here.

Who can legally work in Canada
Work permits: open vs. employer-specific
Getting a Social Insurance Number (SIN)

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Things you need before you can work

Types of work permits

Cost to apply for SIN

First things first

What you need before you can work.

Know your status

Are you a citizen, a permanent resident, or here on a work permit? Your status decides which jobs you can take.

A valid work permit

If you are not a citizen or permanent resident, you need a work permit. Check the end date and any rules on your permit.

A Social Insurance Number (SIN)

You need a SIN to get paid. It's free to apply through Service Canada.

A worker on a construction site in Alberta

Types of work permits

Temporary status

Work permits

Temporary status means you are allowed to be in Canada for a set time and for a set reason, such as working or studying. Your status ends on the date shown on your permit. Before that date, you must apply to extend it, change it, or leave Canada.

To work here with temporary status, most people need a work permit. A work permit says where you can work, for how long, and any rules you must follow. There are two types:

Open work permit

You can work for almost any employer and change jobs without a new permit. These are mostly for graduates of Canadian schools, some spouses, and young people on working holidays.

Employer-specific work permit

You can work for one employer only, in one job and location. Usually, the employer must get government approval to hire you. Changing jobs means getting a new permit first.

A work permit ends on a set date. If you want to stay in Canada for good, you need permanent residence.

Permanent status

Pathways to permanent residence

Permanent residence means you can live, work, and study anywhere in Canada, with no end date. You don't need a work permit, and you can change jobs or move to another province whenever you want. Permanent residents can also get public health care and most social benefits.

To keep your permanent residence, you must live in Canada for at least two years out of every five. After living here for a few years, you may be able to apply to become a Canadian citizen.

There are two main pathways for workers in Alberta.

Provincial Program

The Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) picks workers that Alberta needs. Most people who apply this way already live and work in Alberta.

Federal Program

Express Entry is Canada's main program for skilled workers. You make an online profile and get a score. The highest scores are invited to apply.

The right pathway depends on your job, your experience, your family, and more. Talk to a licensed immigration professional for advice about your situation.

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