Athletes & Staff

Canada actively welcomes professional athletes, coaches, trainers, and essential team personnel to contribute to the country’s dynamic sports culture. The Athletes & Staff category, listed under the Special Groups section of the broader Work pathway, provides foreign sports professionals with a specialized immigration route to participate in athletic events, leagues, or training programs in Canada.

This pathway is designed for individuals who are integral to the functioning of sports organizations or professional teams. Eligible applicants include:

• Professional or semi-professional athletes invited to compete for Canadian teams or clubs,
  
  
• Coaches and trainers working at elite or developmental levels,
  
  
• Technical staff and essential team support personnel (e.g., physiotherapists, scouts).
  
  

Most applicants under this category qualify for a closed work permit that allows them to work for a specific Canadian employer or sports organization. Many positions in this stream are exempt from a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) under the International Mobility Program (IMP) because of their contribution to Canada’s national interest, particularly in promoting sport and culture.

To be eligible, applicants generally need to:

• Hold a formal offer from a recognized Canadian sports organization, team, or league,
  
  
• Provide proof of past performance or employment in the same role internationally,
  
  
• Show that their entry into Canada will enhance the performance, training, or administration of the host team or program.
  
  

Work permits are typically granted for the duration of the contract or event but can be extended if the individual remains employed with the sponsoring organization. In some cases, spouses or partners of athletes and staff may qualify for an open work permit.

This pathway also serves as a stepping stone for long-term opportunities in Canada. While not an immigration program on its own, it may lead to permanent residence through other streams such as the Canadian Experience Class, or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), if candidates meet eligibility after gaining sufficient Canadian work experience.

If you’re a sports professional or employer navigating this process, RightWay Canada is here to help. Book a consultation with our expert immigration consultants to evaluate your eligibility for a Canadian work permit under the Athletes & Staff stream and prepare a complete, compliant application with confidence.