Working for a Canadian business abroad

Overview

Working for a Canadian business abroad

Foreign work counts toward the PR residency obligation only when both the Canadian business and the full-time assignment meet the legislation and regulations. Incorporation in Canada or Canadian payroll alone is not enough.

Test the employer first

A qualifying Canadian business is generally an enterprise incorporated and carrying on an ongoing operation in Canada, or another prescribed Canadian enterprise. A business serving mainly to preserve PR status is excluded.

Document premises, staff, revenue, customers and genuine Canadian activity.

Prove a qualifying assignment

The permanent resident should be assigned from the Canadian operation to full-time employment abroad with the business, an affiliate or a client in the circumstances allowed by the rules. The continuing Canadian employment relationship matters.

A locally hired foreign role may not qualify.

Build evidence beyond an employer letter

Use contracts, payroll, tax records, corporate ownership, organizational charts, assignment instructions, travel and proof of duties. The company letter should explain facts rather than repeat statutory phrases.

Self-owned businesses attract scrutiny of both commercial reality and purpose.

Plan the Canadian return

Evidence of a temporary assignment and role with the Canadian operation after completion can support the claim. Indefinite foreign employment weakens the fit.

Obtain an assessment before relying on several years of foreign days.