Canada has issued a warning to foreign nationals about working without proper authorization. Authorities said violations can lead to serious immigration consequences.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reminded visitors and foreign workers to follow Canadian immigration rules. Working without permission can affect a person’s future immigration status.
According to IRCC, unauthorized employment can result in removal from Canada. In some cases, individuals may also face a ban on returning for up to five years.
The department also warned that unauthorized work could create a permanent record of fraud. Such a record may affect future immigration applications, including applications for permanent residence.
Canada also highlighted the risks faced by people working without legal authorization. Such workers may become more vulnerable to exploitation and workplace abuse.
Potential risks include unpaid wages, unsafe working conditions, threats, and forced labor. Workers may also face other forms of abuse from employers.
IRCC clarified that having a visitor visa does not provide permission to work in Canada. The same applies to an electronic travel authorization, commonly known as an eTA.
Most visitors are also unable to apply for a work permit from within the country. Foreign nationals should therefore understand their immigration conditions before accepting employment.
Foreign workers must follow all conditions stated on their work permits. Those who need an extension should apply at least 30 days before their permits expire.
Workers who apply before their permits expire may remain in Canada under maintained status. They can continue under applicable conditions while their applications are processed.
However, workers must stop working if their permits expire before they submit an extension application. Breaking work permit conditions can lead to serious immigration problems.
IRCC said violations may make a person inadmissible to Canada. In some cases, the person could also face removal from the country.
Authorities also urged foreign nationals to stay alert against immigration and employment scams. Fraudsters may demand money in exchange for jobs or work permits.
Some scams may involve false promises of permanent residence. Others may request payments through social media platforms.
Foreign nationals were also warned about misleading claims concerning legal stay periods. Some people may be offered accommodation in exchange for unpaid or unauthorized work.
At the same time, Canadian authorities stressed that temporary foreign workers have legal protections. Employers must pay workers and provide safe working conditions.
Employers are also prohibited from taking away workers’ passports or work permits. Workers should understand their rights and report serious violations through proper channels.
International students must also follow employment rules linked to their study permits. They must comply with applicable limits on off-campus working hours.
Students who exceed permitted working hours could face serious consequences. Their student status could be affected, and future applications may be refused.
Graduates generally need a work permit to continue working in Canada. However, eligible post-graduation work permit applicants may work while awaiting a decision.
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This applies only when they meet the required conditions. Foreign nationals are therefore advised to understand their permits before starting employment.
