Dear Mr Brown,

I received a job offer and labour market impact assessment for a job that starts in July. I am not sure if there is sufficient time to apply for the work permit. I understand that there are expedited applications for work permits. Please give me some advice on the matter.

-AB

Dear AB:

Global Skills Strategy is an expedited process with regard to processing work permits. The strategy features faster application processing times and, work permit exemptions.

Eligible applicants must submit all required documents with their application for the 2-week processing time. However, there are delays during the pandemic.

For workers who require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), the requirements for two-week processing include:

• A positive LMIA submitted by the employer through the Global Talent Stream of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program

• Submitting the work permit application from outside Canada

• Paying the processing fees

• Submitting biometrics results within 2 weeks of submitting the application (if needed)

• Police certificates

• Medical exam (if needed)

• Certified translations of documents that aren’t in English or French.

To qualify for two-week processing for accompanying family members, the worker and the family members (spouse or common law partner and dependent children) must apply at the same time.

Please visit JAMAICA2CANADA.COM for additional information on Canadian Permanent Residence programs, including Express Entry, The Study & Work program, Visas or Appeals, etc.

Antonn Brown, BA, (Hons), LLB, MSc, RCIC, is an immigration counsel and an accredited Canadian education agent of JAMAICA2CANADA.COM—a Canadian immigration & education firm in Kingston. Send questions/comments to documents.jamaica2canada@gmail.com