Persons who may work without a permit (Canada)
Statutory definition
IRPR s 186 lists persons who may work in Canada without a work permit: business visitors (whose primary source of remuneration is outside Canada and whose work does not directly enter the Canadian labour market); foreign military personnel; on-campus university students; family members of foreign representatives; certain performing artists; and athletes and coaches at international events. The categories are precisely defined and narrow.
Explanation
The work-without-permit exemptions are frequently misunderstood. Business visitors (s 186(a)) can attend meetings, conduct sales, and take orders in Canada — but cannot provide services to Canadian clients on the ground. The line between business visitor and worker is drawn at whether the person is entering the Canadian labour market. Performing artists on short engagements (festivals, one-time concerts) may qualify but must meet specific criteria. Any doubt about whether an activity requires a work permit should be resolved in favour of obtaining one.