If you have a Port of Entry (POE) letter of introduction, valid medical exam as well as a valid job offer, you may be able to work in Canada temporarily despite COVID-19 related travel restriction.
What Is a Port of Entry (POE) Letter?
It’s a letter you may receive from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) if you’ve been approved for a work permit. It is officially called the port of entry (POE) letter of introduction which is sometimes called the
Correspondence letter
Introduction letter
Introductory letter
Note: The letter of introduction is not your work permit.
There are 2 types of work permits:
- An employer-specific work permit lets you work in Canada according to the conditions on your work permit, such as the name of the specific employer you can work for, how long you can work and the location where you can work (if applicable).
An open work permit lets you work for any employer in Canada and is not job-specific. Therefore, you will not need a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada when you apply for your work permit.
Frequently asked questions about POE letters
What Types of Permits Require a POE Letter?
A Port of Entry (POE) letter is needed for work permits and study permits but not for visitor visas or permanent resident visas. If you are applying for a temporary permit to work or study in Canada, you will likely need a POE letter. It confirms that you have been approved for entry and are ready to obtain your work or study permit. The POE letter is an important part of the process, as it provides documentation to Canadian border officials that you have met all the requirements. Without it, you could face delays or be denied entry until you provide the necessary documents.
How Do I Get a Port of Entry (POE) Letter?
To receive a POE letter, you must apply for a work or study permit through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Once approved, you will receive the letter via your online account or email. The application process requires documents like proof of identity, financial support, and sometimes medical exams or biometrics. It is important to provide all necessary documentation to avoid any delays in receiving your POE letter. The entire process can take several weeks or even months, depending on the type of permit you are applying for and your personal circumstances. Always monitor your online account for updates and respond promptly to any requests from IRCC.
Do I Need to Bring a Physical Copy of the POE Letter?
Yes, it is advisable to bring a printed copy of the POE letter when traveling to Canada. While digital copies may work, having a printed copy helps avoid potential issues like connectivity problems or device malfunctions. Border services officers may not always accept digital copies, especially if there are any technical issues that prevent them from verifying the authenticity of the document. Having a physical copy is also a safety measure, ensuring that even if your device fails, you still have all necessary paperwork to complete your entry into Canada. Being prepared can save time and reduce stress during the immigration process.
Can I Use My POE Letter After It Expires?
No, an expired POE letter cannot be used. You must contact IRCC to renew or extend it. Always check the expiry date and plan your travel accordingly to avoid complications. If your POE letter expires, you may be required to reapply for the permit, which could result in additional processing times and fees. It is best to plan your travel well in advance and allow for unexpected delays to ensure your POE letter remains valid. If you are unsure about how to extend the validity of your POE letter, IRCC can provide guidance and support throughout the process.
Can I Enter Canada If I Have a POE Letter but No Job Offer?
If you have an open work permit, you do not need a specific job offer. However, an employer-specific work permit requires proof of employment upon entry. Open work permits provide flexibility, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada, whereas employer-specific permits tie you to one employer. If you do not have proof of employment for an employer-specific work permit, you may face delays or be denied entry. Make sure to understand the conditions of your work permit and have all required documents ready for inspection.
What Happens If My Travel Is Delayed and My POE Letter Is About to Expire?
If your travel is delayed and your POE letter is about to expire, contact IRCC for advice. They may provide an extension or instruct you to apply for a new permit. It is essential to communicate with IRCC as soon as you become aware of any delays that could affect the validity of your POE letter. They may be able to extend the validity or offer alternative solutions. Keeping IRCC informed and responding quickly to any instructions they provide can help minimize disruptions to your travel plans.
Is a POE Letter Required for Canadian Permanent Residents?
No, a POE letter is not required for Canadian permanent residents. It is needed for those approved for temporary work or study permits. Permanent residents must carry their permanent resident card or other proof of status when entering Canada. The POE letter is specifically for individuals who have not yet obtained permanent residency and need to present proof of their temporary permit approval. Understanding your status and what documents are required is crucial to ensure a smooth entry process.
Why choose us?
We have been helping many applicants to become permanent residents for years and we have a high success rate. Our clients from almost 20 different countries have experienced this with us and you can be the next successful one. We know how to prepare documents and how to make your immigration process smooth and easy for you. Contact us HERE to start the process today!
If you are not a Canadian Permanent Resident yet and you are not sure what the best way for you to immigrate to Canada is, please fill out our assessment form HERE and we will get back to you with your possible options.
