Welcoming Newcomers - Reading Materials - Chapter 02: Who Are Internationally Trained Workers?

ITWs are professionals and tradespeople who obtained their credentials outside of Canada.

• Naturalized Canadian citizens
  Newcomers who have lived in Canada for several years and have obtained Canadian citizenship. Just like their Canadian-born counterparts, they have the same rights and responsibilities and can be employed in any sector with no restrictions.

• Permanent residents
  Newcomers in the first few years of their living in Canada. They can work in most jobs, with some limitations for positions requiring higher level security clearance.
• International students
  Students who come to Canada to complete post-secondary training, often in addition to an undergraduate or graduate degree and some industry experience in their home countries. Many intend to find work in Canada after graduating and are eligible for a general work permit or a post-graduate work permit. International students can generally work in any job up to 20 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks. They are also eligible for the same co-op programs as domestic students.

• Refugees
  People who have come to Canada to avoid persecution or other threats in their home countries. They are eligible for both employer-specific and open work permits. They usually apply for work permits when they file their refugee claims. Those with refugee status are responsible for securing their own work permits.
• Temporary foreign workers
  Foreign workers who are eligible to address critical talent shortages in Canada. These workers must secure jobs before applying for their visas, and their visas are valid for one employer only. They may also be eligible for extension.