How Long Does Employer Visa Sponsorship Last in Canada?

In Canada, the duration of an employer-sponsored visa contract depends on the type of work permit being issued. Generally, there are two main categories: temporary work permits and permanent residency sponsorships.

1. Temporary Work Permit

• Duration: The length of the contract depends on the job offer and the type of work permit. Most employer-sponsored temporary work permits are valid for 1 to 2 years.

• Renewal: In many cases, a work permit can be renewed or extended if both the employer and employee want to continue the employment, and if the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) and immigration requirements are met.

• LMIA: For many employer-sponsored permits, the employer must obtain a positive LMIA, showing that no Canadian workers are available for the position.

Examples of work permits:

• Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP): Allows employers to hire foreign workers for short-term contracts, often lasting 1-2 years, with a possibility of renewal.

• International Mobility Program (IMP): Offers employer-specific work permits that also tend to last 1-2 years, but could vary based on the agreement between the worker and the employer.

2. Permanent Residency Sponsorship

• Duration: There’s no fixed contract length in this case, as the goal is to provide the worker with permanent residency. The employer sponsors the worker for permanent residency through programs like the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) or the Express Entry system.

• Employment Terms: Employers may ask for a commitment to work for a specific period (e.g., 1-2 years) after permanent residency is granted, but once permanent residency is obtained, the worker is not legally bound to the employer for a specific period.

In summary, for temporary work permits, contracts generally last 1 to 2 years with possible extensions. For permanent residency, the duration is more focused on transitioning the worker to permanent residency, not a fixed-term contract.