Immigration at U of L

The University of Lethbridge (ULethbridge) values strong international collaborations with leading universities, research institutes, and industry partners around the world, in addition to providing enriching and meaningful international opportunities to students.

Planning is required when reaching out to host international colleagues, researchers, expert knowledge holders, students or visitors to your department, lab or office. Depending on the nature of your relationship, there are different immigration pathways to joining the University’s international community.

This is provided as a general information source. Prior to making any decisions or moving forward with any immigration related matter, you must seek specific advice through Human Resources or the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs.

It is your responsibility to obtain up-to-date immigration information and advice for your individual situation. Comprehensive immigration information can be found on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

All international visitors to the University, even those who will not receive pay, must receive the right invitation. 

Immigration for Faculty & Staff

Faculty and staff who come to the U of L as foreign nationals require work permits under Canadian immigration law.  This is provided as a general information source. Prior to making any decisions or moving forward with any immigration related matter, you must seek specific advice through Human Resources (human.resources@uleth.ca) or the Office of Postdoctoral Affairs (postdoc@uleth.ca).

Foreign nationals requiring a work permit are categorized into two overarching streams:

1. Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) - This program requires a LABOUR MARKET IMPACT ASSESSMENT (LMIA). 
2. International Mobility Program (IMP) - This program is LABOUR MARKET IMPACT ASSESSMENT (LMIA) exempt. This is the category that encompasses Postdoctoral Fellows. In most cases, Postdoctoral Fellows will obtain an employer specific (LMIA) exempt work permit that will allow them to enter Canada to work for the University of Lethbridge. Postdoctoral Fellows, in certain situations, may also be eligible for a Post-Graduate Work Permit. In order to get a work permit for working in Canada, foreign nationals will need a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada. However, some types of work are exempted from an LMIA, provided the individual meets the requirements listed. More details can be found on the Citizenship & Immigration Canada website.

Immigration for Students

To study in Canada for any period longer than six months, you will need a study permit. A study permit is an official document issued by the government of Canada which grants you temporary resident status and allows you to study at a designated learning institution such as the University of Lethbridge.

Please keep in mind that your study permit is not an entry document. To enter Canada, you will most likely require either a Temporary Resident Visa or an electronic Travel Authorization. No separate application is required for these; you will receive the correct entry authorization automatically along with your Letter of Introduction when your study permit is approved. For more information about Immigration for Students please reach out to our International Centre here.

There may be conditions on your study permit indicating the level of studies you can attend and whether or not you are permitted to work or travel inside Canada. It is important that you understand and comply with the conditions of your study permit. Review your study permit carefully when you receive it.