Digital nomads in Canada: how to work remotely without a work permit

Canada officially recognizes the status of so-called digital nomads — professionals who can perform their work remotely from anywhere in the world. To work remotely from Canada, such individuals don't need to obtain a work permit — having temporary resident status as a visitor is sufficient. This allows them to move to Canada for up to 6 months while continuing to work for a foreign employer or, in the case of self-employment, provide services to clients outside Canada.

This clarification was published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) as part of Canada's Tech Talent Strategy.

Who is considered a digital nomad

A digital nomad is someone who can perform their work remotely from anywhere in the world. The key requirement is that their income must come exclusively from outside Canada. This means such a professional either works for a foreign employer or is self-employed and provides services to clients located outside Canada.

To stay in Canada as a digital nomad, regular visitor status is sufficient. No additional documents specific to this category are required. However, upon entry, the person must still convince the border officer that they will leave Canada when their authorized stay expires.

Labor market and restrictions

Remote work for a foreign employer is not considered entering the Canadian labor market. This is a fundamental distinction that allows digital nomads to stay in Canada without a work permit.

However, if a digital nomad intends to work for a Canadian employer, they'll need to obtain a work permit before starting their duties. A person can enter Canada as a digital nomad and then start looking for a Canadian employer, but they must understand that working for a Canadian company without the appropriate permit is prohibited. If someone declares their intention to find a Canadian employer upon entry, they'll be informed about the need to obtain a work permit before beginning employment.

Exceptions to the work permit requirement are outlined in Section 186 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations. A detailed list of situations where you can work without such a permit is published on the Government of Canada's official website under the International Mobility Program section.

Visitor requirements

Digital nomads are subject to all standard requirements for visitors to Canada. When applying for a visitor visa, requesting an extension of status (visitor record), or going through border control, you must provide documentary evidence of the following: the person is not entering the Canadian labor market, has sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay, and will leave Canada when their authorized period expires.

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To extend their stay in Canada beyond the initially authorized period, a digital nomad must apply for a visitor record.

What documents may be required

A digital nomad must provide adequate documentation confirming that their income is generated exclusively outside Canada and that they work remotely for a foreign employer or provide services to clients outside the country.

Acceptable supporting documents may include: a letter from an employer or employment contract with a foreign company, pay stubs from a foreign employer, service contracts and invoices, proof of business registration abroad, documents regarding income taxation in a foreign jurisdiction, and bank statements. This list is not exhaustive — other documents confirming the nature of employment and source of income may also be accepted.

Family members

Family members of a digital nomad who wish to come to Canada must independently apply for their own temporary resident status — for example, as a worker, student, or visitor. They don't automatically receive the right to work or study in Canada. If a family member plans to work, they need to obtain a work permit, and if they plan to study — a study permit.

Practical recommendations

Digital nomad status opens up an opportunity to live in Canada and get to know the country without going through the complex process of obtaining a work permit. This can be a first step for those considering Canada as a destination for future immigration. While in the country, you can explore the job market, build professional contacts, and later apply for a work permit if you find a suitable Canadian employer.

If you're considering moving to Canada as a digital nomad or want to learn about other immigration programs, we recommend booking a consultation with a licensed immigration consultant. A specialist will help assess your chances and choose the best path: book an immigration consultation.