Immigration Corner | Work permits and age: Is 57 too late?

Dear Ms. Powell,

I am 57 years old. At my age, is it possible for me to get a work permit to work in Canada?

Thanks,

C.G.

Dear CG,

Yes. It is possible to obtain a Canadian work permit at age 57. Age alone is not a ground for refusal. However, please pay careful attention to the requirements outlined below.

Unlike permanent residence programmes such as Express Entry, where age affects your score, temporary work permits are not assessed on a points system. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) focus on whether you meet the requirements of the permit, the legitimacy of the job offer, and evidence that you will comply with the terms of your stay.

IRCC will assess your qualifications, the job offer, and whether you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized period.

Valid Job Offer from an Authorized Employer

You must have a genuine job offer from a Canadian employer authorized to hire foreign workers. In most cases, the employer must first apply to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) for a Labour Market Impact Assessment before extending a formal offer. Without this step, the employer cannot support your application.

Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

An LMIA is a document issued by ESDC that assesses the impact of hiring a foreign worker on the Canadian labour market. The employer must show that efforts were made to hire Canadian citizens or permanent residents and that no suitable candidate was found. A positive LMIA confirms a legitimate need for a foreign worker and supports your work permit application.

LMIA-Exempt Positions

Some positions do not require an LMIA. These include roles under international agreements such as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement, intra-company transfers, and positions under the International Mobility Programme. In these cases, the employer must still submit an offer of employment through IRCC’s Employer Portal and pay the compliance fee.

Qualifications, Experience, and Education

You must demonstrate that you have the education, skills, and experience required for the position. This includes presenting certificates, diplomas, degree and reference letters. In some cases, an Educational Credential Assessment report is required to confirm that your foreign education is equivalent to Canadian standards. Regulated professions may require licensing by a provincial body.

Medical and Police Clearance

You may be required to complete an immigration medical examination, particularly for longer stays, or for work involving vulnerable populations. The examination must be completed by an approved panel physician.

You must provide a police certificate from each country where you have lived for six months or more since the age of eighteen. This confirms that you are not criminally inadmissible to Canada.

Temporary Intent

You must satisfy the officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. You should provide documents to prove financial, social and family ties; ownership of property, or ongoing obligations in your home country.

Canadian immigration law does not set an upper age limit for work permits. At 57, your experience and skills may be of value to Canadian employers. I’m unable to provide additional information without knowing more about background and qualifications.

If you require assistance, ensure that you have a valid job offer, a current passport, and proof of your qualifications and work experience before applying. You may also wish to consult a Canadian immigration lawyer for more detailed guidance.

Deidre S. Powell is a Canadian lawyer, mediator and author of “Tell me a story Grandma”. Connect with her via www.deidrepowell.com or via Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Telephone/WhatsApp 613-695-8777