An in-depth Guide to Applying for a Work Permit to Canada from the UAE
Last Updated: Dec 08, 2023


If you’re considering a Canadian work visa from the UAE, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re looking to work temporarily in Canada, our expert team can guide you through the process. The type of work you plan to undertake in Canada will determine the specific work visa you require. Here’s a breakdown of the steps and options:
Types of Canada Work Permits
At Ace Luxury Immigration Solutions in the UAE. We offer a complete solution for individuals aspiring to work temporarily in Canada and in need of a Canadian work permit. Canadian work permits generally fall into two main categories:
- Open Work Permit: An open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada, with a few exceptions. To be eligible for an open work permit, you should meet some requirements. For instance, you might be eligible if you are a family member of someone working temporarily at a Canadian university or college.
- Employer-Specific Work Permit: With an employer-specific work permit, you can work in Canada for a particular employer, subject to the conditions specified in the permit. This includes details such as the employer’s name, duration of employment, and the specific location of work, if applicable.
Canada Work Permit from UAE Requirements
To apply for a Canadian work permit from the UAE, you need to fulfill specific requirements:
- Job Offer: You must receive a job offer from a Canadian employer before applying for a Temporary Work Permit from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC).
- Processing Time: The processing time for a work permit application can be around 24 weeks for individuals from the Middle East.
- LMIA Requirement: Certain occupations may necessitate a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Employers should obtain an LMIA before hiring foreign workers. LMIA demonstrates the need for foreign workers and the scarcity of qualified Canadian candidates.
- LMIA Approval: A work permit can only be issued after the employer obtains LMIA approval. To apply, workers need to meet certain criteria, including providing an employment offer letter, a contract, and the LMIA information.
- Entry into Canada: Upon arrival in Canada, you’ll get a Canadian Temporary Work Permit from a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) agent. Some individuals might also require a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) to enter Canada. Applying for a TRV should be done through the relevant Canadian visa office in your home country or region.
By following these steps and ensuring you meet the requirements, you can pursue your goal of working in Canada. Our expert team is here to assist you at every stage of the process, making your journey smoother and more successful.