Canada welcomes athletes and coaches from around the globe to contribute to its economic, social, and cultural development. The requirements for obtaining a work permit vary based on whether your team is based in Canada or internationally.
You basically have two options if you’re an athlete or a staff:
Athletes and Staff Working for a Non-Canadian Employer
Foreign athletes and coaches are considered foreign workers, but many of the rules of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) do not apply to them.
pplying all TFWP rules to these individuals would be impractical and prevent Canada from participating in international sports events. Therefore, athletes and coaches who are part of a foreign team or represent a foreign country usually do not need a work permit.
Important Note: This also applies to their essential personal and support staff.
Athletes and Staff Joining a Canadian Employer
Foreign nationals who want to join a Canadian sports team or represent Canada as individual athletes generally need a work permit. However, the process is easier than for other foreign workers.
These athletes often do not need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which is usually the hardest part of getting a work permit. The LMIA shows that there is a labor shortage and that the employer could not find a Canadian citizen or permanent resident for the position.
LMIA applications are closely scrutinized, and even small errors can cause problems. Athletes who are exempt from the LMIA do not need to show this labor shortage, making the process simpler.
It is important to ensure these athletes qualify for this exemption and have a well-prepared work permit application.
Why Choose Us
Choosing the right guidance for your journey as an athlete or coach in Canada is crucial. Our team offers extensive experience and a deep understanding of the unique needs and challenges faced by athletes and coaches. We provide tailored support, ensuring that all legal requirements are met efficiently and smoothly. Our commitment to excellence and personalized service makes us the ideal partner for your transition to working in Canada.
How We Can Help
We offer comprehensive support throughout the entire process of obtaining the necessary permits and documentation. Our services include:
Assessing your eligibility and determining the best work permit options for your situation.
Assisting with the preparation and submission of your application, ensuring that all details are accurately addressed.
Providing guidance on navigating the specific requirements and regulations related to athletes and coaches.
Offering ongoing support and advice to ensure a seamless transition to working in Canada.
Our goal is to make the process as straightforward and stress-free as possible, allowing you to focus on your athletic career.
