For many newcomers to Canada, receiving your official documents upon arrival is an exciting and essential step. If you have received a Port of Entry (POE) Letter of Introduction from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for a Work Permit, Study Permit, or both, you will need to complete the final step of your application process at the airport or land border when you enter Canada.
1. Who Can Get a Permit at the Airport?
You can receive a Work Permit, Study Permit, or both at the airport if you:
- Applied outside of Canada
- Were approved by IRCC and received a Letter of Introduction (POE Letter)
- Are entering Canada for the first time under your approved permit
The POE Letter is not the permit itself. It must be presented to a Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer when you arrive. The officer will then issue your actual permit(s).
2. Prepare These Documents Before Arrival
Have the following items ready in your carry-on bag:
- Passport
- Letter of Introduction (for Work Permit and/or Study Permit)
- Valid Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or eTA (if applicable)
- Any other supporting documents listed in your approval letter
Keep printed copies of everything, even if you also have digital versions.
3. At the Canadian Airport or Border
When you arrive in Canada:
- Proceed to Immigration: Tell the officer that you are here to activate your Work and/or Study Permit.
- Present Your POE Letter: Give the officer your passport and approval documents.
- Answer Questions Clearly and Honestly: Be prepared to confirm the purpose of your stay, your job, your school, and your financial support.
- Review the Permit: Once the officer prints your permits, carefully check:
- Your name and passport number
- The expiry date
- Any conditions or restrictions (e.g. employer, location, study level)
If you see any errors, politely ask the officer to correct them before you leave the area.
4. After Receiving Your Permit(s)
Once you’ve received your permits:
- You may now legally work and/or study in Canada under the terms listed.
- Keep your permits safe — you’ll need them for:
- SIN application (to work)
- School registration
- Travel and visa renewals
If you have dependents (spouse or children) arriving with you, they may also receive their permits at the same time, if approved.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Don’t pack your POE Letter or documents in checked luggage.
- Don’t assume the visa in your passport is your permit.
- Don’t forget to check the details on your permit before leaving the airport.
Step-by-Step: What to Do If CBSA Didn’t Issue Your Work Permit
1. Do Not Panic
This happens sometimes due to human error, especially if:
- The officer overlooked the POE letter.
- You were issued only one permit (e.g., study permit) when you qualified for both.
2. Check What You Received
Carefully review:
- The documents given to you (e.g., only a study permit, or just an entry stamp).
- Whether your passport has any notes or stamps related to the work permit.
3. Gather Your Supporting Documents
Prepare:
- Your POE Letter for the Work Permit
- Your passport and visa
- Job offer letter and LMIA or offer of employment number (if applicable)
4. Contact a Local CBSA Office
Go to a local CBSA office (e.g., at a land border or airport) to fix the error in person. Follow their instructions carefully.
5. Do Not Start Working Without the Permit
Until you receive your actual Work Permit, you are not authorized to work in Canada, even if your POE Letter was approved.
