Canadian Work Visas (for Spaniards)

Spaniards hoping to work in Canada may need to secure a job offer before they are granted a Canadian Work Permit, though this depends on the type of permit they apply for.

The different types of permits also determine the candidate’s ability to move jobs. Closed Work Permits require Spanish nationals to work with the same employer at a set location, Open Work Permits are more flexible in that the permit holder can change employer while living in Canada.

To be eligible for a Canadian Work Permit, Spanish citizens working in Canada may need to prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves, intend to leave Canada once their permit expires, can provide supporting documents, and are not criminally or medically inadmissible to Canada.

The requested documents may include, but are not limited to:

• A written offer of employment
• Medical exam results
• Recent passport-sized photos
• Marriage certificate
• CV
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
• Valid passport

Once they have secured a permit, candidates will have to follow specific guidelines on what they can and can’t do while in Canada, depending on which pathway they are on. This includes whether dependents are allowed, whether studying is permitted, and which employers are approved.

The visa application process for each Canadian Work Permit is unique, but candidates can apply on the Canadian government website. In terms of cost, the processing fee for a Closed Work Permit is $CAN 155. The Open Work Permit comes with an additional permit holder fee of $CAN 100.

Page Contents

• Overview of Canadian Work Visas for Spanish Citizens in 2025
• Determining the Type of Canadian Work Visa You Need
• What are the Tax Implications of Working in Canada as a Spaniard?
• Is There Support for Integrating into Canada as a Spanish National?
• How Total Law Can Help
• FAQs

As each Canadian Work Visa has different requirements, it’s important to determine which one is right for you before applying. Total Law immigration lawyers can help you explore your options, but you may want to rule out the obvious ones yourself before arranging a meeting.

Canadian Express Entry welcomes skilled immigrants into Canadia via an ‘Express Entry draw’ organised by the Canadian government, making it an excellent way for those who have plenty to offer within their sector to move to Canada.

However, not everyone can move to Canada based on being a skilled worker. However, there are many other options, including:

• Global Talent Stream
• Facilitated LMIA
• Temporary Foreign Worker Program
• Post-Graduation Work Permits
• Bridging Open Work Permit
• Spouse Accompanying International Student or Worker
• Spousal Sponsorship from Inside of Canada
• International Experience Canada
• CETA Work Permits
• Intra-Company Transfers
• NAFTA Work Permits
• International Mobility Program

These routes have different criteria; some are temporary visas that can not be renewed.

If you intend to bring dependents from Spain, remember to check whether each Work Permit allows this.

Canada and Spain have agreed, via a tax treaty, to prevent the double taxation of their people who move between the countries. When a Spanish resident goes to work in Canada, they will be taxed in Canada but will receive a tax credit from the Spanish government.

Yes, there are schemes all over Canada designed to help foreign citizens – and sometimes Spaniards in particular- settle into the country.

One example is the Newcomer Settlement Program in Toronto. Spanish nationals can approach this company for help with English classes, information on the healthcare system, and government applications such as pension plans, child tax benefits, and citizenship.