Navigating Canada’s LMIA-Exempt Work Permits for Summer Camp Counsellors: New Requirements for 2025

As summer approaches, international applicants eyeing camp counsellor positions in Canada must stay informed about recent changes to immigration requirements. Notably, as of March 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) mandates police certificates for all overnight camp counsellor work permit applicants. This blog post outlines these updates and provides guidance for a successful application.

Understanding the LMIA Exemption for Camp Counsellors

Foreign nationals aiming to work as camp counsellors at seasonal residential camps during the summer months (June to September) may qualify for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) exemption under paragraph R205(b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR), specifically exemption code C24. This exemption acknowledges the cultural and social benefits of such positions and the established international reciprocity for these roles.

However, positions at day camps or year-round camps typically require an LMIA unless the employer can provide evidence of reciprocal opportunities for Canadian counsellors abroad.

New Requirement: Police Certificates

Effective March 24, 2025, IRCC requires all applicants for overnight camp counsellor positions to submit police certificates as part of their work permit application. The police certificate must be:

• Issued in English or French
• Obtained from your current country of residence and any country where you have lived for more than six months since the age of 18
• Dated no more than six months prior to your application submission

If you’re applying for an extension and your existing police certificate doesn’t meet these criteria, you must obtain a new one.

Employer Responsibilities

Before you apply, your prospective employer must:

• Submit an offer of employment through the IRCC Employer Portal
• Pay a $230 employer compliance fee, unless exempt
• Provide you with the offer of employment number, which you’ll need for your application

If the position is unpaid and with a charitable or religious organization, both you and your employer may be exempt from the respective processing fees.

Application Process

To apply for a work permit:

1. Create an online IRCC account
2. Complete the application forms with accurate and complete information
3. Upload required documents, including:
   • Police certificates as specified above
   • Proof of qualifications (e.g., first aid certification, relevant work experience)
   • Employment reference letters
   • A copy of your passport
   • A digital photo
   • Proof of medical exam, if required
4. Pay applicable fees, unless exempt
5. Submit your application and await further instructions, which may include providing biometrics

Working at Multiple Camps

If you plan to work at more than one camp, you must:

• Obtain a separate work permit for each camp
• Ensure each employer submits their own offer of employment through the Employer Portal

It’s advisable to coordinate with all prospective employers early to prevent processing delays.

Final Thoughts

Canada offers enriching opportunities for international individuals to work as summer camp counsellors, fostering cultural exchange and personal growth. Staying informed about current requirements, such as the new police certificate mandate, is crucial for a successful application. Prospective applicants and employers should consult the official IRCC guidelines or seek professional legal advice to navigate the process effectively.