When work may be authorized without a permit

Overview

When work may be authorized without a permit

Most foreign nationals need a work permit. Exemptions cover defined activities and conditions, not broad occupations; a person must fit every element before beginning work.

Classify the activity, not just the job title

Potential exemptions include certain business visitors, speakers, performers, athletes, news crews, expert witnesses, examiners, foreign representatives, emergency providers and transportation workers.

An occupation appearing on the list does not establish exemption when the duration, employer or activity falls outside the definition.

Short-term high-skilled work is limited

Certain TEER 0 or 1 workers can perform one short engagement under the Global Skills Strategy exemption within specified time and frequency limits. Repeated projects cannot be divided to avoid a permit.

Short-term researchers have their own institution, time and frequency requirements.

Students have separate authorization

Eligible study-permit holders can work on or off campus within their conditions; recent graduates who properly applied for a PGWP may work while awaiting the decision. These are statutory authorizations, not general visitor rights.

Stop when eligibility, enrolment or hours conditions are no longer met.

Entry permission remains necessary

A work exemption does not remove the need for a visa or eTA and admissibility. Bring evidence describing the exempt activity and foreign or Canadian relationships.

If the activity changes after arrival, obtain a permit before doing the new work.