I think it means that if your passport is visa exempt, that is if you do not need a visit visa to travel to CanadaAre you sure?
because the website says that if you meet a few requirements you can. https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/work-canada/permit/temporary/eligibility.html#port_entry
1. Entering from US.
2. Quarantine plan.
3. Valid offer letter
4. You do not need a Visitor visa to enter Canada. (We have one plus we are already approved if our WP gets approved.)
I hope that makes sense.
It doesnt I think mean if you already have one just that if your passport does not require you to have one
However, you can apply for a work permit when you enter Canada if
- you don’t need a visitor visa to come to Canada