Canadian Work Permit Processing Times

The length of time or Work Permit processing times it takes to process work permit applications may vary depending on the location where the application is submitted.

A visa officer can refuse a work permit application if the foreign worker is found to be inadmissible for any of the following reasons:

• has failed a medical examination
• has a criminal record
• is determined to be a security risk
• has not met the criteria and standards described in the job offer provided by the employer
• has not satisfied the visa officer that he or she will leave Canada at the end of the period of employment

The visa office will inform the foreign worker of its decision in writing.  During the overseas processing of work permits, employers should maintain regular contact with recruited foreign workers in order to be kept up to date on the status of their applications.

If their overseas application for a work permit is approved in principle, foreign workers will receive a letter explaining that they are eligible for a work permit. It is important to note that this letter is not a work permit. Foreign workers are required to present the letter to a Border Services Officer at a port of entry when seeking to enter Canada.