A Work Permit category is an alternative available for film industries and television companies to fetch adequate workers in Canada. The condition associated with bringing workers to Canada also requires the film industries or television companies to prove that the workers from abroad will largely contribute to the production.
On submitting your work permit application as a worker in the television or film industry, you will undergo processing for over three weeks.
When you receive a work permit from the television or film industry, you become exempt from providing the LMIA.
If it is proven or known that the work done by the hired foreign worker will benefit any cultural, economic, or social aspect of the country, then LMIA is not required.
Canada acknowledges that the film and television industry contributes massively to the country’s revenue. Therefore, workers from foreign films and television crews can access the work permit and faster processing times.
The LMIA requirement is exempt, but foreign workers must ensure that they are in accordance with the provisions associated with the Canadian temporary work. They might even need to acquire a Temporary Resident Visa (If required).
The applicants applying for the work permit must also demonstrate eligibility with the essential documents supporting their claim.
They will have to submit a support letter issued by the production with the following considerations:
- Essential information about the production, such as its name and contact details.
- Name of the work permit applicant.
- The Canadian provinces where shoots or production will take place.
- The dates on which the production will happen.
- The production’s work title.
- A factual statement claiming that the individual’s role and position are significant for the show.
- A detailed explanation of the massive contributions of the T.V. and film industry to the Canadian economy.
In the case of the post being part of any union, you will need to present a letter from a relevant union with the following particulars:
- An elaboration of the union or guild.
- The work permit applicant’s name.
- The production’s working title.
- The Canadian provinces where the production will occur and the tentative production dates.
- A statement claiming that the guild or union agrees regarding the work to be done implies collective agreement. It must also be stated that they don’t bear any issues concerning the specific foreign worker working in the company in a particular position.
Becoming a business visitor in the entertainment industry
Working in the entertainment industry can make you eligible as a business visitor. Being a business visitor might not require a work permit in Canada, although it entirely depends on your work type and duration.
To qualify as a business visitor, you will have to classify for the following three worker categories in the entertainment industry:
Film Producers
Film Producers who are involved in a production with foreign financial support. They could be involved in making a movie, television show, or even documentary.
Performing Artists
These artists could be involved in show performances, festivals, and concerts. They could even have a guest appearance in Television series or Canadian films. Their duration of Canadian stay must be limited.
Essential Personal
They could be working on a commercial shoot with financial support from foreign sources. Their stay duration must be limited to two weeks.
