According to IRCC, most foreign nationals need a work permit to work in Canada. Some are exempt, but must still meet the specific conditions of each exemption.
Who may not need a work permit
| Group | Examples from IRCC |
|---|---|
| Academics and skilled workers | Examiners and evaluators; public speakers; short-term researchers; short-term high-skilled workers |
| Business people | Business visitors, convention organizers, public speakers |
| Emergency and transportation | Aviation accident investigators, civil aviation inspectors, crew members, emergency service providers |
| Military, foreign organizations and law | Expert witnesses, foreign government representatives, diplomats, military personnel |
| Sports, media and arts | Athletes, coaches, referees, news reporters, film crews, short-term performing artists |
| Students | Study permit holders working on or off campus under conditions; health care students in short-term placements |
| Religious work | Religious leaders |
Business visitors vs. workers
Business visitors come to Canada for meetings, negotiations or market research and don't enter the Canadian labour market. If you will do a job for a Canadian employer, you usually need a work permit.
You may still need a visa
Even without a work permit, you may need a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) to enter. Vietnamese citizens usually need a visitor visa for Canada; check IRCC's tool for your case.
How to check
IRCC's "Find out if you need a work permit" tool asks a few questions to tell you whether you need a permit and which type.
Note Working without a valid permit can lead to removal from Canada and affect future applications.
Employer-specific and open work permits
What is an LMIA?
LMIA-exempt categories (C16, ICT…)