Work Rules in Canada for Visitor Workers and Students
Working in Canada Without Permission Is Illegal
First of all, it’s important to know that working in Canada without proper authorization is illegal. In most cases, you must have a valid work permit to work legally in Canada.
If you work without permission, you may face serious problems, such as:
- Being removed from Canada
- Getting a permanent fraud record with IRCC
- Being banned from returning to Canada for 5 years
- Having future visa or PR applications rejected
- Facing unsafe work conditions
- Losing wages or not getting paid
- Being abused, threatened, or forced to work
Therefore, understanding your rights and permit conditions is very important.
Visitors: You Usually Cannot Work
To begin with, having a visitor visa or eTA does not allow you to work in Canada.
In fact, most visitors cannot apply for a work permit from inside Canada. As a result, working as a visitor without permission can lead to serious legal trouble.
Workers: You Need a Valid Work Permit
In most cases, you need a valid work permit to work in Canada. This is the first step to working legally.
Before starting any job, you should:
- Check if you need a work permit
- Make sure your job matches your permit conditions
Otherwise, you may become inadmissible and be asked to leave Canada.
Warning Signs of Immigration Fraud
Unfortunately, many people fall victim to scams. You may be getting scammed if someone:
- Promises a work permit or job in exchange for money
- Says they’ll help you get PR if you work for them
- Asks for documents or payment through social media
- Claims you can stay longer than your permit allows
- Offers free food and housing in exchange for work
Therefore, always verify information and protect yourself from fraud.
Understand Your Work Permit Conditions
Every work permit has specific rules, such as:
- Where you can work
- Who you can work for
- What type of work you can do
If you don’t follow these conditions, you may lose your status and be removed from Canada.
Extend Your Work Permit on Time
You should apply to extend your work permit at least 30 days before it expires.
This allows you to stay legally in Canada under maintained status while waiting for a decision.
However, if you leave Canada during this time, you cannot work when you return until your permit is approved.
Changing Work Permit Conditions
You can apply to change:
- Your employer
- Your job type
- Your work location
For example, some jobs require a medical exam. Once completed, you can update your permit conditions accordingly.
What Happens When Your Permit Expires
You must stop working immediately if:
- Your permit expired before you applied for a new one
- You violated the conditions of your permit
Otherwise, your stay in Canada may become illegal.
Working Without a Work Permit (Special Cases)
Some people can work without a work permit. However, they must:
- Have valid temporary resident status
- Follow all conditions carefully
- Extend their stay before it expires
Failing to do so can still lead to penalties.
Your Rights as a Foreign Worker
As a temporary foreign worker, you are protected by Canadian labour laws.
Your employer:
- Must pay you for your work
- Must provide a safe workplace
- Cannot take your passport or work permit
Moreover, you can contact labour offices without your employer’s permission, and you cannot be punished for it.
Employment Laws in Canada
Most jobs follow provincial or territorial laws. However, federal laws apply if you work for:
- The federal government
- Banks
- Transport or telecom companies
Each labour office can guide you about fair pay, working hours, and conditions.
Employment Agreements Are Mandatory
If you have an employer-specific work permit, your employer must give you a signed employment agreement. It should include:
- Job details
- Work conditions
- Maximum weekly hours
- Salary and deductions
Always keep a copy, as it may help resolve future issues.
Students: Working While Studying
International students can work only if allowed on their study permit.
You may:
- Work on campus
- Work off campus (limited hours)
However, working more hours than allowed is a violation and may result in:
- Loss of student status
- Rejection of future visas
- Removal from Canada
Students: Working After Graduation
After graduation, you need a work permit to work in Canada.
Some students qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). If not, you may still be eligible for other work permits.
If you applied for a PGWP, you can work full-time while waiting for a decision only if you meet all eligibility conditions.
Otherwise, you must wait for approval before starting work.
Final Reminder
In conclusion, working in Canada without authorization is illegal. Therefore, always:
- Follow your permit rules
- Apply for extensions on time
- Stay informed about your rights
Doing so will protect your future in Canada and keep your immigration journey safe and legal.
Get in touch with SPS Global
Receive advice on any of your questions regarding Immigration Get in touch with us, experienced immigration consultants from SPS Global. For additional information, contact support@spscanada.com (Canada) or support.amd@spscanada.com (Ahmedabad), or by phone at (1) 905-362-9393 (Canada) or +919586226232 (Ahmedabad).
