You don’t need a work permit A family member of a foreign representative needs a work permit

To work in Canada as a family member of a foreign government representative, you don’t need a work permit if you meet all 3 of these requirements:

• You’re accredited in Canada as the dependent spouse or child of a diplomat.
• Your passport counterfoil and Global Affairs Canada issued ID card indicates “D” or “I”.
• You have a letter of no objection from Global Affairs Canada (GAC)— this is normally issued only if there is a reciprocal employment arrangement with your home country.
  • To find out how to get this letter, contact GAC’s Office of Protocol.

While it’s not required, you’re also eligible to apply for an open work permit, if you want one. This will give you additional proof that you’re authorized to work anywhere in Canada.

How to apply for a work permit

If you don’t meet these requirements, you need a work permit.

Answer some questions to find out what type of work permit you need.