by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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Working Without Authorization in Canada: What Temporary Residents Must Know
Working without authorization in Canada is one of the most serious compliance issues that can impact temporary residents, employers, and future immigration applications. In 2026, IRCC continues to take a strict approach to unauthorized employment, and even unintentional violations can lead to refusals, removal orders, or long-term inadmissibility concerns.
Understanding the rules around working without authorization in Canada is essential for anyone holding a visitor record, study permit, work permit, or maintained status.
What Counts as Working Without Authorization in Canada
Working without authorization generally means performing employment activities in Canada without the appropriate work permit or legal permission.
This can include:
- Working while holding visitor status
- Working after a work permit expires
- Working for a different employer when not authorized
- Working outside the conditions of a closed work permit
- Working while out of status
Even short-term or informal work may be considered unauthorized if compensation is involved or if the activity is performed in a competitive labour market.
Common Situations Where Unauthorized Work Happens
Many unauthorized work issues occur unintentionally, especially when individuals misunderstand maintained status, restoration rules, or the conditions attached to a work permit.
Common scenarios include:
- Continuing employment after a permit expires without applying on time
- Changing job duties or locations without confirming work permit restrictions
- Working while waiting for a restoration decision
- Starting a new role before a new permit is approved
What Happens if IRCC Discovers Unauthorized Work
IRCC may identify unauthorized work through employer compliance audits, work permit applications, permanent residence filings, or information sharing between government agencies.
Consequences may include:
- Refusal of a work permit extension or restoration application
- Refusal of permanent residence applications
- Issuance of a removal order
- Inadmissibility findings under Canadian immigration law
- Future immigration applications facing increased scrutiny
Does Unauthorized Work Affect Permanent Residence Applications
Yes. Unauthorized work can affect eligibility under programs such as Express Entry, including the Canadian Experience Class, and many Provincial Nominee Programs.
Even if the applicant later becomes compliant, prior unauthorized work may raise credibility issues and impact IRCC’s assessment of admissibility.
Employer Risk: Why Unauthorized Work Matters for Businesses
Unauthorized employment is not only a risk for the worker. Employers may face serious consequences if they employ someone who is not legally authorized to work in Canada.
Depending on the circumstances, employer exposure may include penalties, audits, and reputational damage.
For corporate clients relocating international talent, immigration compliance should be treated as part of a broader onboarding process. Many employers coordinate settlement logistics such as housing through trusted partners like MAC Furnished Residences Inc. and relocation planning through MAC Real Estate Services Inc., which makes it even more important that immigration authorization is secured before work begins.
What to Do If You Have Worked Without Authorization
If you suspect you have worked without authorization, acting quickly can make a significant difference.
Steps may include:
- Stopping work immediately until authorization is confirmed
- Reviewing your permit conditions and expiry dates
- Determining whether restoration or a new permit is required
- Preparing a clear explanation before submitting future applications
Attempting to correct the situation without proper strategy can create further risk.
How Zohil-Morton Law Can Help
Unauthorized work issues often arise in complex situations involving maintained status, restoration, employer changes, or immigration processing delays. A well-prepared legal strategy can reduce risk and strengthen future filings.
At Zohil-Morton Law, we support individuals and employers with immigration compliance, work permit strategy, restoration applications, and refusal prevention.
If you are unsure whether your work history is compliant or you need to take urgent corrective steps, our team would be happy to review your situation.
Book a consultation with our office to receive clear, lawyer-led guidance before submitting your next application.
Still have questions? Book a consultation today with Cristina Zohil-Morton and the team at Zohil-Morton Law.
Stay Informed
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We’re here to keep you informed and empowered on your Canadian immigration journey.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a licensed immigration professional regarding your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Work Authorization in Canada
Can I work in Canada while on visitor status?
No. Visitors are generally not permitted to work in Canada unless specifically authorized under immigration law.
Does working without authorization affect permanent residence?
Yes. Unauthorized work can impact eligibility, admissibility, and credibility in permanent residence applications.
Can I fix unauthorized work issues later?
In some cases, yes. However, it is important to address the situation early and submit future applications strategically.
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