What is considered work for temporary residents?

If you’re a temporary resident, work is any activity that

• you’re paid to do
• you’re not paid to do, but is a job that
  • you’d usually be paid for
  • would be valuable work experience for a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (for example, an unpaid internship)

Pay includes money or commission

• an employer gives you
• you receive for a service
• you receive for any other activity

You usually need a work permit to work in Canada.

Find out if you need a work permit.

Permanent residence applicants

If you’re applying for permanent residence, you may not be able to use the above definition of work when proving you have in-Canada work experience for your application.