Can I work while my IEC work visa has been applied but underway and not approved yet

[SannanIjaz]

Hi. I wanted to ask if I can work while I have applied for my work visa with my employer under IEC, but it hasn't issued yet.

 

[Naturgrl]

No, not unless you have another type of work permit. Your IEC may not be approved depending where you live.

 

[SannanIjaz]

I do not have any kind of work permit. I am going to apply for IEC via my employer in Toronto.

 

[scylla]

Hi. I wanted to ask if I can work while I have applied for my work visa with my employer under IEC, but it hasn't issued yet.

No, you cannot.

 

[Naturgrl]

I do not have any kind of work permit. I am going to apply for IEC via my employer in Toronto.

Then no.

 

[Naturgrl]

May I ask what country you are applying from?

 

[SannanIjaz]

I am in Canada right now. but an Australian IEC applicant

 

[SannanIjaz]

I got my job offer after I came to Canada. So, I am thinking if I can get my employer onboard and apply for the Work Visa, which takes 56 days, can i work with him before that, as the start date is 20th. Are there any work arounds for this available. I'd be glad to know.

 

[scylla]

I got my job offer after I came to Canada. So, I am thinking if I can get my employer onboard and apply for the Work Visa, which takes 56 days, can i work with him before that, as the start date is 20th. Are there any work arounds for this available. I'd be glad to know.

You absolutely cannot start working for him before the IEC work permit is approved. If you do that, you will be working illegally. There are no work-arounds.

Note that for the IEC program you have to start by entering the pool and being selected. The overall process will likely take more than 56 days. You need to make your employer aware.

 

[SannanIjaz]

Hi Scylla. I have the invite to apply already

 

[scylla]

Hi Scylla. I have the invite to apply already

Ah - got it. You still can't start working until you have the work permit in hand. You need to make your employer aware that you can't start on the 20th.

 

[SannanIjaz]

Makes Sense Scylla. Thank you.

 

[Naturgrl]

Makes Sense Scylla. Thank you.

https://www.cic.gc.ca/english/work/iec/selections.asp

See selection process. Assume you are applying for Young Professional which is employer specific so you can’t work for anyone else.