Whether you are planning on moving abroad to work or have already received an offer of employment, you need to apply for a work permit. Below are 5 tips when applying for a work permit. Being cognizant of them will boost your chances of being approved.
1. Apply early
Once you decide to apply for a work permit, it is advised that you begin your application and gathering all required documents as soon as possible. Countries such as Canada and the United States get many applications for work permits per year. Applying early will ensure you can take advantage of a job offer received and start on time with no delays.
The typical processing time for a work permit application is almost 2 months. You need to be mindful of this timeframe to ensure you get your permit in time to begin your job. Give yourself a lot of time to complete the application. If you are rushed, you may make mistakes or fail to include pertinent information that could affect the success you have when applying.
2. Apply to the right category
Applying to a category that is incorrect or you are ineligible for may lead to delays or outright rejections when it comes to your application. Therefore, you need to confirm that you apply to the right one the first time around.
In many countries such as Canada, there are two types of work permits you can apply to: open work permits and employer-specific work permits. Open work permits allow you to work for any employer with only a few restrictions. Employer-specific work permits require you to specify the name of your employer, the timeframe in which you will work, and the location where you will be working.
If you are interested in a permanent residency and have required skills, education, and, language ability, you can also look into the skilled worker express entry program. Whichever category you apply to, ensure you meet the requirements
3. Complete application in full
The work permit application is in-depth with many fields to complete. You need to ensure you complete all fields and have your information correct. Otherwise delays may occur when they send your application back to correct it or rejections because the permit officer thinks you are being deceitful.
When you are done filling out your application, review it in full a few times to verify the information and make sure you did not miss anything. Also cross-reference what you have included in your application with the checklist provided. This will ensure you are not leaving anything out.
4. Provide supplemental documents
At the front of your application for a work permit is a checklist of supplemental information you are required to include. To maximize your chances of getting approved for your work permit it often helps to provide documentation in addition to the ones listed on this checklist.
Including additional information demonstrates your commitment to obtaining a work permit and that you will do more than required to get one. Such information can include employment and school records, language test scores, and letters from family members and friends commenting on your character, work ethic, and intentions to return to your home country. Such information can only boost your application and chances of approval.
5. Have an offer of employment
Many people have been approved for open work permits. However, your chances of getting one may be better if you have an offer of employment and apply under the employer-specific category.
Having an offer of employment demonstrates that you already have a plan and will not struggle to try and find work after arriving in the host country. Before applying, make sure you have a job offer or contract as well as a copy of a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) report. This is completed by the employer and demonstrates that they need to hire a foreign worker (you) and no worker native to the host country is available.
