The following performing artists may enter Canada without a work permit:
- Foreign-based musical and theatrical performers or groups and their essential crew
- Street performers (buskers)
- DJs
- Traveling circus performers
- Guest artists who are performing with a Canadian performance group for a time-limited engagement. Note: In order to be exempt from the work permit requirement, it must be obvious that the guest performer will cease his/her work with the Canadian group after a certain period of time
- Wrestlers from the World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. and similar groups
- Persons performing for a limited time at a private event such as a wedding
- Air show performers
- Artists working at or attending a showcase or workshop. Under this group, only entry for five days or less will normally be allowed. Duties under this category may include:
- Competing.
- Judging competitors.
- Demonstrating certain skills.
- Holding a class related to the showcase or workshop.
- Visual artists creating or displaying their own work at a showcase or workshop. Under this category, only entry for five days or less will normally be allowed.
- Rodeo contestants (e.g., bronco-riders, steer-ropers, barrel racers)
- Film producers
- Small groups that intend to use a film or recording studio
- Guest speakers that will make live appearances or appearances on Canadian TV or radio
Note: The following performing artists must obtain a work permit and LMIA before entering Canada:
- Actors, singers and crew in Canadian theatrical productions, shows, or circuses
- Persons involved in making films, television, Internet and radio broadcasts
- Performers in Canadian-based productions or shows
- Rodeo performers or side show workers (e.g., rodeo clowns, announcers, horsemanship specialists, trick riders, ‘half-time acts’ and other specialty act entertainers).
- Performers who will be in an employment relationship with a Canadian organization or business.
Note: An “employment relationship” is only created when a performer signs a contract AND agrees to perform for an employer on a regular basis such as five nights a week for a period of four weeks. If a performer is hired to perform only once or twice, the performer is still exempt from the work permit requirement even if a contract is signed.
Interested employers: Kindly contact us here to receive further information.
Interested candidates: Find out whether you qualify to Canada by completing our free on-line evaluation. We will provide you with our evaluation within 1-2 business days.
