Canadian work permit for US graduate.

[r2t2]

Hello All,

I am Chinese citizen, currently residing in United States and finishing my school by the end of this summer. After completing my school I wish to work in Canada. Could some of you help me guide what are the options available for me as recent graduate to obtain work permit from Canada.

Many Thanks
Al

 

[scylla]

Hello All,

I am Chinese citizen, currently residing in United States and finishing my school by the end of this summer. After completing my school I wish to work in Canada. Could some of you help me guide what are the options available for me as recent graduate to obtain work permit from Canada.

Many Thanks
Al

Unfortunately you should assume it will be very challenging / next to impossible to secure a work permit. There are work permits available to recent graduates - but only for those who completely their studies in Canada.

In order for you to get a work permit, you will need to start by getting a job offer from an employer in Canada. That employer will then have to obtain an approved LMIA. If the employer can obtain an approved LMIA, you can then apply for a closed work permit tied to that specific employer.

Generally speaking, it's extremely difficult to find an employer willing to go through the LMIA process since it's a long process (4-6 months) with no guarantee of approval at the end. The first step in the process is for the employer to advertise the job for at least a month to prove no Canadian could be found for the role. Given all of the job losses due to COVID-19, I think that securing an approved LMIA is gong to be extremely difficult in the next year or so.

If you have options for working in the U.S. after you complete your studies, I would recommend that you focus on that instead. It will be extremely difficult to secure a work permit for Canada.