In the same case, a Labour Market Opinion is not required to obtain a work permit. Those who are able to demonstrate that their employment in Canada will provide significant benefits to Canadians or permanent residents may be considered exempt. This is completely discretionary upon an immigration officer’s review.

What is a Significant Benefit Work Permit?

A Significant Benefit Work Permit is a type of work permit that is reserved for those who can demonstrate the ability to create or maintain a significant social, cultural or economic benefit to Canadian society or provide opportunities for Canadians and/or permanent residents of Canada.

Do I qualify for a Significant Benefit Work Permit?

There are a few categories under which you may qualify.

Canadian Interests category is typically reserved for those who offer a more cultural or social benefit and where an economic one is not the focus. An example of this would be an artist wishing to showcase their work in Canada or a musician endeavouring to raise awareness of a topic through music.

Entrepreneurs and Self Employed Candidates who wish to establish a business in Canada may also qualify for a Significant Benefit Work Permit in lieu of a permanent residence application. You would need to demonstrate that your intended business would generate economic, social or cultural benefits to permanent residents or citizens of Canada. The benefits of this business would also need to be demonstrated, especially if it is a provider of unusual goods or services.

The Intra Company Transferee Category is designed to target executive, managerial, or specialized knowledge employees of foreign companies that wish to transfer To Canada to work in the branch office of their parent company in Canada. The applicant must meet the job qualifications of the intended position in Canada as well as have been employed for at least one year prior to the submission of the application.

The Emergency Repairs Category is geared towards Canadian work permits that it issued In order for foreign workers to make repairs on industrial equipment or machinery in order to prevent the possibility of a disruption to Canadian workers. You will need to demonstrate the evidence in each of the repairs.

In cases where reciprocal opportunities exist for Canadian workers abroad for workers may be granted a work permit in Canada. This is called Reciprocal Employment. Some established reciprocal opportunities include:

• International youth exchange programs
• Academic exchanges
• Cultural agreement
• Work-related research
• And postgraduate employment

How do I apply for a Significant Benefit Work Permit?

Compiling the proper documentation is necessary for a successful application. In order to confirm that you qualify for a significant benefit work permit, you will need to demonstrate that you are exempt from a labour market opinion. Once it has been demonstrated that you are exempt, you will apply for a work permit and must meet the basic qualifications for such an application.

What documents do I need to apply for a Significant Benefit Work Permit?

Depending on the nature of your significant contribution to Canada and the significant benefit under which you are applying, you will need to demonstrate the appropriate documents and see the basic qualifications of the various categories available. Aside from this identification, you’ll need to demonstrate your qualifications, experience, valid job offer, and the intended to benefit in Canada. This documentation will allow you to demonstrate whether you qualify for an exemption to labour market opinion. Providing the proper documentation will allow the unit to assess your file to determine whether or not you meet the
basic criteria for a significant benefit work permit.

Do I need a Labour Market Opinion for a Significant Benefit Work Permit?

Significant Benefit Work permits do not require a Labour Market Impact Assessment. Unlike most other work permits, those who apply for a significant benefit work permit will not first need to obtain approval from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC)/Service Canada. This is determined by a specific unit that is geared toward such applications, the reader’s decisions on these matters. You will first need to submit an application to this unit before a decision is made.

What is the processing time for a Significant Benefit Work Permit?

But the bubble processing times to find out if you are exempt from a Labour Market Opinion can typically take up to 10 to 20 days. You receive written confirmation of this opinion and will use this to apply for a work permit. Please note that just because you have received an opinion that exempts you from Labour Market Opinion, it does not guarantee that an immigration officer assessed in your work permit will provide you with a positive outcome.4