Visa Sponsorship Process for Canada – Step-by-Step Guide (2025)
If you’re planning to work in Canada and require visa sponsorship, understanding the process is the first step toward starting your new career. Canada offers thousands of opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers, and many employers are willing to sponsor foreign workers by providing the required documents for a work permit.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the complete visa sponsorship process for Canada, including eligibility, required documents, and application steps.
1. What is Visa Sponsorship in Canada?
Visa sponsorship is when a Canadian employer offers you a job and supports your work permit application by providing an official job offer and required paperwork. This process allows you to enter and work in Canada legally. In most cases, employers apply for an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) before hiring foreign workers.
2. Types of Canadian Work Permits with Sponsorship
There are two main categories of work permits in Canada:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit – Tied to one employer and job position.
- Open Work Permit – Allows you to work for any employer in Canada (usually available for certain visa categories).
3. Eligibility Criteria for Visa Sponsorship
To be eligible for visa sponsorship in Canada, you must:
- Have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Meet age requirements (usually 18–50 years old).
- Hold the required skills or experience for the job role.
- Provide valid travel documents (passport, ID, etc.).
- Be medically fit and have no serious criminal record.
4. Required Documents
Before applying, prepare these documents:
- Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity).
- Job offer letter from a Canadian employer.
- LMIA approval (if required).
- Proof of educational qualifications (if applicable).
- Proof of work experience.
- A medical certificate from an approved doctor.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Recent passport-size photos.
5. Step-by-Step Visa Sponsorship Process
Step 1 – Find a Sponsoring Employer
Search for Canadian companies offering visa sponsorship jobs in your profession.
Step 2 – Employer Applies for LMIA
Your employer must apply to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) for Labour Market Impact Assessment approval.
Step 3 – Receive a Job Offer Letter
Once the LMIA is approved, your employer will issue a job offer letter for your work permit application.
Step 4 – Apply for a Work Permit
Submit your application online through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal with all required documents.
Step 5 – Wait for Approval
Processing times vary depending on your country and job type.
Step 6 – Travel to Canada
Once approved, you’ll receive your work permit and visa to start your career in Canada.
6. Processing Time & Fees
- Processing Time: 2–6 months (varies by location and program).
- Visa Fee: $155 (work permit fee) + biometric fee if required.
7. Benefits of Visa Sponsorship Jobs in Canada
- Free Visa & Ticket (offered by some employers).
- Free Accommodation & Meals.
- Medical insurance is covered by the employer.
- Legal work authorisation in Canada.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) after work experience.
Tip: Apply only to verified employers and avoid agencies charging high upfront fees.