My sister and I have recently moved to Canada as settlers by birthright (our mother is a Canadian citizen) and we are in the process of filing for proof of citizenship, we would like to start working as soon as possible, but it could take between 5 months to a year for the papers to go through. Do we have to get a work permit to be able to work? If so do we have to wait in tell the citizenship paper work has been sent to start the work permit paper work? Do we need an employer ready to higher us to get a work permit or are we able to get an open work permit?
thank you for your help
Until you are confirmed as Canadian citizens, you would need a work permit to be allowed to work. Unfortunately there is no special work permit for individuals in your situation.
Yes, you would need to find an employer who is willing to offer you a job, that employer would need to obtain an approved LMIA and then you would need to apply for a closed work permit tied to that specific employer.
Based on the information you've provided, you don't qualify for an open work permit. Applying for citizenship does not entitle you to apply for an open work permt.
If you cannot find an employer and obtain a closed work permit, you'll have to wait until the proof of citizenship application process is completed before you'll qualify for a SIN and will be able to work.
