So my only option left is to apply for a work permit online?
See here:
https://www.canadainternational.gc.ca/france/covid-19.aspx?lang=eng
New applications for temporary residence, work permits or study permits
must be submitted online. If you are a permanent resident of Canada and do not have a valid permanent resident card to return to Canada, please send an email to
paris-im.visitor@international.gc.ca and ask for instructions to apply for a Permanent Resident Travel Document.
Temporary workers: Applications for positions considered essential will be processed in priority. For an application to be considered complete, biometrics must be provided. Once their application has been processed and approved, temporary workers must determine if they are exempt from the travel restrictions in force at that time. Given that a work permit or letter of introduction indicating that the work permit application has been approved is required to prove that a temporary worker is exempt from travel restrictions,
applications may not be submitted at a port of entry to Canada.