Working in Canada without authorisation
Statutory definition
IRPA s 30 provides that a foreign national may not work in Canada without being authorised. Section 41(a) makes a foreign national inadmissible for failing to comply with any condition of their status. IRPR s 196 sets out exceptions — persons who may work without a work permit include some Canadian spouses of citizens, diplomats, and certain others. Employers who knowingly employ unauthorised workers face significant fines under the IRPA compliance regime.
Explanation
Unauthorised work creates a misrepresentation risk on subsequent applications (where the applicant may not fully disclose the work), inadmissibility for non-compliance with the IRPA, and potential loss of any pending applications. Common scenarios: a visitor who works without a permit; a student who exceeds their authorised work hours; a person who continues to work after their work permit expires without maintained status. Employers who hire foreign workers without confirming their work authorisation face fines under IRCC's employer compliance program.