Sponsored by my husband, freelancing for an American company. Is this a problem?

[selfemployedandconfused]

Hi,

I was told by Immigrations (when they granted me my temporary status) that I'm not allowed to work in Canada. I've been freelancing for an American company over the internet for several years and earn a great living. As an American citizen, I pay taxes in the US. I'm not sure, however, if this poses a problem and counts as "working" even if I'm not taking a Canadian job or profiting off of Canadians. Can you please shed some light? Thank you!

 

[andrew-brit]

I am by no means an expert but from reading on this forum you are not breaking any laws.

As long as the company you are working for is a non-Canadian company then you are fine.

 

[rhcohen2014]

it is perfectly acceptable working remotely for a us company while in canada as a visitor. cbsa will actually like this if they ever ask for proof of employment. it makes it less likely that you will be "taking a job away from a canadian" by seeking employment in canada. generally, the only time working remotely gets sticky is when work is being performed for canadian clients. otherwise, no need to worry about your us employment.

 

[zardoz]

I am by no means an expert but from reading on this forum you are not breaking any laws.

As long as the company you are working for is a non-Canadian company then you are fine.

I believe that you can't service any Canadian clients of that company either. If you do ANYTHING that affects or distorts the Canadian labour market, it's illegal work. This includes working for free where a Canadian worker COULD be employed. (Such as shovelling snow).