Professional Sportsmen Work Permit

Canada hosts a wide variety of sporting events. As a result many international athletes and coaches come to Canada to take part in sporting events. These athletes may sometimes need a work permit.

Who needs a work permit?

A work permit is needed when the sportsman joins a Canadian based sports team or represents Canada as an individual athlete. But they are not required to get an LMIA for applying for the work permit. This is done so that the work permits can be issued easily and to avoid unnecessary red tape. It would help Canada in bringing in athletes and representing Canada in sporting events. It is important that the athletes are eligible for the sporting events and their work permit applications are well prepared. 

Who does not need a work permit?

A work permit is not needed when foreign athletes and coaches come to Canada to participate in sporting events. Even though they would be working and earning in Canada, they are not required to meet the conditions of a Temporary Foreign Worker. This is done so that the process is not burdensome and it would help Canada in hosting international sporting events. 


Contact us at SAM Law if you would like us to represent your team for sporting events. Our years of experience would be very beneficial when making the work permit applications.