Work visa and work permit are related, but they are not always the same thing.
| Feature | Work Visa | Work Permit |
|---|---|---|
| Main purpose | Gives permission to enter/stay in a country for work | Gives authorization to perform work |
| Usually issued by | Immigration/visa authority | Immigration or labour authority |
| Job-specific? | Depends on the country and visa | Often can be employer-specific |
| Entry to country | Often used for entry | May not itself give entry permission |
| Example | UK Skilled Worker Visa | Canada Employer-Specific Work Permit |
| Can you work? | Usually yes, if the visa authorizes employment | Yes, subject to permit conditions |
🇨🇦 Canada
Canada primarily uses the term work permit. There are two main types:
- Employer-specific work permit: generally requires a job offer and may require an LMIA.
- Open work permit: does not require a specific job offer but is available only in certain situations.
You may also need a visitor visa or eTA to enter Canada, depending on your nationality and circumstances. A work permit and entry document are therefore separate concepts.
🇬🇧 UK
The UK commonly uses the term work visa, such as the Skilled Worker visa. It allows an eligible person to come to or remain in the UK to work for an approved employer, subject to the visa conditions.
Simple Example
If you get a job in Canada:
Job offer → LMIA (if required) → Work Permit → Enter Canada with the required travel document
If you get a sponsored job in the UK:
Job offer → Certificate of Sponsorship → Skilled Worker Visa → Enter/stay in UK and work
Bottom line
Work visa = immigration permission to enter/stay for work.
Work permit = authorization to work.
However, the terminology differs by country, so you should always check the specific country’s immigration rules.