Thinking about working in Canada? That’s a great choice—Canada has a solid job market, a high quality of life, and a welcoming immigration system. But before you start packing your bags or refreshing job listings, you need to get your paperwork in order. Whether you’re coming temporarily or planning to settle long-term, there are certain documents that are absolutely essential.
Here’s a straight-to-the-point guide on the 10 must-have documents you’ll need to legally work in Canada.
1. Work Permit
Let’s start with the big one. Unless you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you need a valid work permit to legally work in Canada. There are two main types:
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Employer-specific work permits – tied to a specific job and employer.
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Open work permits – allow you to work for almost any employer in Canada.
Most foreign workers will need to get a job offer first and then apply for a work permit. However, some programs like the International Experience Canada (IEC) allow young people from select countries to apply for open permits.
2. Job Offer Letter
Your job offer letter is critical, especially if you’re applying for an employer-specific work permit. This letter should include:
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Job title and duties
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Salary
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Start date and end date (if applicable)
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Employer’s contact info
It’s not just about formality—immigration officers need to see this document to assess if the job is legit and meets Canadian labor standards.
3. Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
Most employers who hire foreign workers must get an LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). An LMIA shows there is a need for a foreign worker and that no Canadian was available to fill the role.
If your job offer requires an LMIA, your employer has to apply for it. Once approved, you include the LMIA approval number in your work permit application.
Note: Some jobs and programs are LMIA-exempt, like those under international agreements or significant benefit categories.
4. Valid Passport
It may sound obvious, but your passport must be valid for the entire length of your intended stay. If your passport expires before your permit, you’ll only be approved for the duration of your passport’s validity. Renew it early if needed.
5. Proof of Qualifications
Canada wants to ensure you’re qualified for the job you’re offered. That means providing:
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Academic degrees, diplomas, or certificates
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Professional licenses, if applicable
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Reference letters or work experience proofs from previous employers
Make sure your documents are translated into English or French if they’re in another language, and certified where required.
6. Resume (CV)
Even though it’s not a legal requirement, a strong Canadian-style resume can go a long way in landing a job. Canadian employers look for:
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Clear, concise layout (no more than 2 pages)
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Focus on accomplishments and results
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No photos, age, or marital status (unlike some other countries)
Pro tip: Tailor your resume for each job application. A generic resume won’t cut it.
7. Social Insurance Number (SIN)
Once you arrive in Canada, you must apply for a Social Insurance Number. It’s a 9-digit number that allows you to legally work and access government programs and benefits.
You can apply online or in person at a Service Canada office. You’ll need your work permit and passport to apply.
Without a SIN, your employer legally cannot pay you, and you won’t be taxed properly—so don’t delay this one.
8. Proof of Funds (In Some Cases)
Depending on your visa type, you might need to show that you have enough money to support yourself in Canada, especially if you’re coming through programs like IEC or applying for permanent residence.
You’ll need recent bank statements showing you can cover initial costs like rent, food, and transportation.
For example, the minimum requirement under Express Entry is around CAD $13,000 for a single applicant (more if you’re bringing family).
9. Medical Exam Results (If Required)
Not everyone needs a medical exam, but if you’re:
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Coming to work in healthcare, childcare, or agriculture
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Planning to stay longer than 6 months
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Coming from a country with higher health risks
…you’ll likely need to undergo a medical exam by a panel physician approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The exam includes a physical, a chest X-ray, and blood tests. Your results will be sent directly to IRCC by the physician.
10. Police Clearance Certificate
In some cases—especially for long-term visas or permanent residence—you’ll be asked to provide a police clearance certificate from every country where you’ve lived for 6+ months since the age of 18.
This shows that you don’t have a criminal record that would make you inadmissible to Canada.
Make sure it’s recent (usually issued within the last 6 months) and officially translated if it’s in another language.
Bonus: Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) Documentation
If you’re applying for a job in a specific province under the Provincial Nominee Program, you’ll need a nomination certificate. This is issued by the provincial government and gives your application a big boost.
Each province has different criteria, so check the specific program details for Alberta, Ontario, British Columbia, etc.
Final Thoughts
Getting the right documents together can feel overwhelming, but it’s 100% doable if you plan ahead. Here’s a quick checklist:
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✅ Work permit
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✅ Job offer letter
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✅ LMIA (if needed)
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✅ Valid passport
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✅ Proof of qualifications
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✅ Resume
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✅ SIN (after arrival)
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✅ Proof of funds (if required)
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✅ Medical exam results (if required)
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✅ Police clearance (if required)
Every application is different, and requirements can change—so always check the IRCC website for the latest info.
Whether you’re coming for a year or for good, having your paperwork in order is the first big step toward your Canadian work adventure. Good luck—and welcome to the Great White North!
