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12 Essential Documents You Need to Work in Canada

Dreaming of starting a new chapter in Canada? Whether you’re captivated by its majestic landscapes, multicultural cities, or booming job market, working in Canada can be a life-changing experience. But before you jump into this exciting journey, there’s one important thing to take care of: paperwork.

To work legally in Canada, you’ll need a number of key documents. Getting everything in order early will not only make the process smoother but also boost your chances of success. Here’s your go-to guide to the 12 essential documents you need to work in Canada.

1. Work Permit

Your work permit is your golden ticket to employment in Canada. There are two main types:

  • Employer-specific work permit: Tied to a particular employer and position.

  • Open work permit: Allows you to work for any employer in Canada, often issued to spouses of skilled workers or international students.

Apply through the IRCC website and ensure you meet the eligibility requirements before submitting.

2. Job Offer Letter

To obtain most types of work permits, especially employer-specific ones, you’ll need a valid job offer letter. This should clearly state your:

  • Job title and description

  • Salary and benefits

  • Start and end dates

  • Working hours and location

Make sure the job offer is genuine and from a registered Canadian employer.

3. Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

In many cases, your employer must get an LMIA—a document issued by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) confirming that hiring a foreign worker is necessary because no Canadian is available to fill the position.

Not all jobs require an LMIA, but if yours does, this is a critical step. If you’re exempt, it’ll be under an LMIA-exempt category like international agreements (e.g., NAFTA), intra-company transfers, or public interest exceptions.

4. Valid Passport

Your passport is the backbone of your application. Make sure it is:

  • Valid for the duration of your stay in Canada

  • Has blank pages for visa stamps

  • Up-to-date with your correct personal information

All your Canadian immigration documents will be linked to your passport, so double-check everything before applying.

5. Educational Credentials

For many jobs, especially in skilled professions, you must provide your academic credentials such as:

  • Degrees, diplomas, or certificates

  • Transcripts from your institutions

  • Credential evaluations (if required)

Canada often requires Educational Credential Assessment (ECA) from an agency like WES (World Education Services) to verify that your education meets Canadian standards.

6. Professional Certification or Licensing

If your occupation is regulated in Canada—like nursing, engineering, law, or accounting—you’ll need to get certified or licensed by the relevant Canadian regulatory authority. Each province may have different standards, so it’s essential to research and begin this process early.

Tip: Use the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC) to check licensing requirements by profession and province.

7. Proof of Work Experience

To qualify for most work permits or immigration streams, you’ll need to show relevant work experience. This can include:

  • Reference letters from former employers

  • Job descriptions and contracts

  • Pay stubs and tax records

  • Letters of recommendation

Make sure your documentation clearly outlines your duties, duration of employment, and skills gained.

8. Language Proficiency Test Results

Canada is a bilingual country, and depending on where and what you plan to do, you may need to prove your ability in English and/or French.

Accepted tests include:

  • IELTS or CELPIP (for English)

  • TEF or TCF (for French)

Check the minimum scores required for your specific visa category or job.

9. Police Clearance Certificate

Also known as a background check, this certificate proves you have no criminal record. You’ll typically need to provide this from:

  • Your country of citizenship

  • Any other country where you’ve lived for six months or more

The certificate must be recent, usually issued within six months of your application date.

10. Medical Examination Report

Some jobs and immigration programs require you to undergo a medical exam—especially if you’ll be working in healthcare, childcare, or public services.

The exam must be done by a panel physician approved by IRCC. It ensures you don’t pose a public health risk and are fit to work in Canada.

11. Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A Canadian-style resume or CV is essential not only for job applications but also during your work permit process. It should:

  • Be concise (1–2 pages)

  • Focus on achievements rather than duties

  • Be customized for each job application

Make sure it includes your Canadian address (if applicable), contact information, and relevant keywords for applicant tracking systems.

12. Proof of Funds (If Applicable)

For some types of work permits—especially open work permits and those transitioning from student status—you may need to provide proof of financial stability. This can include:

  • Bank statements

  • Proof of scholarship or funding

  • Affidavits from sponsors

This demonstrates you can support yourself while settling in.

Conclusion: Be Prepared, Be Confident

Getting ready to work in Canada involves more than just landing a job—you need to have the right documents in place to start off smoothly and legally. Each piece of paperwork plays an important role in your journey, from your initial application to your day-to-day life as a working resident.

Start early, stay organized, and double-check all document requirements. With your paperwork in order, you’ll be well on your way to launching a successful and exciting career in one of the most welcoming countries in the world.

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