Work Visas Abroad

Passport

All Canadian citizens must have a valid passport before taking up residence abroad. Once living overseas, you should continue to maintain a valid passport. Application forms are available on-line through the Passport Office Web site, and at passport offices, post offices and Canadian government offices abroad. Passport applications accompanied by the required information and supporting documentation are usually processed within five working days if presented in person or up to three weeks if mailed to the Central Passport Office. When planning your departure time, however, allow yourself more time if you need a visa, since a valid passport is required before you can apply for a visa.

Your passport is valid for five years. If your passport is due to expire within the next six months, check with your host country's embassy or consulate in Canada for its rules and restrictions regarding passport validity and expiration. Some countries will not let you enter if your passport is within six months of expiry.

Visa

All governments require foreigners to obtain their permission to reside in their country. In some instances, that permission is reflected by an endorsement or stamp placed in your passport, allowing you to enter the country for a specific time and purpose. All countries require you to obtain special permission for entry when you plan to work. This permission is called a visa or work permit.