Canadian Immigration News

Canadian Work Permits for Foreign Nationals in the Video Game Industry

2.25 minute read
"Due to the Covid-19 travel restrictions and lockdowns imposed in 2020 to control the spread of the pandemic, video game productions and film and TV production experienced a major drop in revenue. "
Written by My Visa Source Team
Published on:  May 23, 2021
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Due to Covid-19 travel restrictions and lockdowns imposed in 2020 to control the spread of the pandemic, video game productions and film and TV production experienced a major drop in revenue. 

The Canadian government has allowed casting, voice acting and motion capture for video games as well as film and TV productions to continue their operations as long as they work according to the health and safety measures put in place. These measures include maintaining social distancing and following safety procedures as much as possible. 

These measures have been put in place to control and prevent the spread of the Covid-19 virus. Film and TV productions are experiencing a boom in 2021. Many productions have started their operations including Moonfall starring Halle Berry and directed by Roland Emmerich. 

How Can Video Game Workers Come to Canada for Work? 

Professional video game workers have several options if they want to come to Canada for work. Having a regular job offer will allow you to apply for a temporary work permit as long as your employer obtains a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). It may also be that your occupation does not require your employer to apply for an LMIA. 

If your job offer is from an employer based in Quebec, you will be required to obtain a Certificate of Acceptance or Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) from the Quebec ministry that authorizes you for temporary work. The employer will be responsible for providing you with an LMIA and a valid job offer letter. 

You will require these 2 documents to apply for a work permit from the government body of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This work permit will be provided to you at the Port of Entry when you travel to Canada. 

What Are the Other Options for Work Permits?

Video game workers can also opt to apply for the Global Talent Stream (GTS) if they want to obtain a work permit faster. The GTS allows highly skilled foreign workers to obtain a work permit within 2 weeks of applying. 

If your occupation requires a positive LMIA, you will get your work permit within 1-2 weeks, allowing you to move to Canada within 4 weeks. Although, it depends on the employer. If they are hiring a specialized talent, they can apply through Category A. 

A referral will be required from a designated referral partner. If the employer is hiring foreign workers for an occupation listed on the Global Talent Occupations List, then they can apply through Category B.

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