Canada welcomes international workers in the entertainment industry, but how does an industry worker obtain the right to work in Canada?

Depending on the situation, the work project, and other factors, there may be ways for entertainment industry workers to enter the Canadian labour market temporarily. After all, Canada’s cities and towns cater to a vast array of entertainment productions and spectacles across film and television production, performing arts, and more besides. Consequently, the government of Canada facilitates the entry of necessary personnel to the country.

 

Options for working in Canada

One of the following options may apply to your specific needs.

  • Qualify as a business visitor

    This options refers to a category of foreign nationals intending to work in Canada who, due to the nature and/or duration of the work to be performed in Canada, do not require a work permit.

  • LMIA exemption

    Certain entertainment industry workers could be eligible for a work permit that is exempt from the need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), thereby simplifying the application process and reducing the wait time. A LMIA is a document that serves as proof that no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available to perform the job.

  • LMIA advertising exemption

    If a LMIA is required in order for the entertainment industry worker(s) to begin working in Canada, there may nonetheless be a facilitated process whereby the position does not need to be advertised in order for the LMIA to be issued successfully.

  • Ordinary LMIA process

    If none of the above scenarios apply, entertainment industry workers may still go through the complete LMIA process before working in Canada.