Work and Legal Basics

Work Permit Checklist for Toronto Newcomers

What you need to work legally in Canada as a foreign national.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1LMIA-exempt work permit: IEC (youth), CUSMA (US/Mexican professionals)
2Global Talent Stream: 2-week processing for qualifying tech workers
3SIN required before your first day of work — get it at Service Canada
4Open work permit (PGWP, IEC): you can work for any employer

City context: Toronto

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Toronto. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about Work and Legal Basics in Toronto

Work and Legal Basics

Work Permit Checklist for Toronto Newcomers

What you need to work legally in Canada as a foreign national.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1LMIA-exempt work permit: IEC (youth), CUSMA (US/Mexican professionals)
2Global Talent Stream: 2-week processing for qualifying tech workers
3SIN required before your first day of work — get it at Service Canada
4Open work permit (PGWP, IEC): you can work for any employer

City context: Toronto

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Toronto. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about Work and Legal Basics in Toronto