Hello. I currently have both a permanent residency application and applications for the LMO and Quebec temporary worker approval in process. As my future employer and I didn't know how long the permanent residency application would take we went ahead and sent in the required paperwork to allow me to get a temporary work visa. My question is, can my future employer give me a salary advance prior to my receiving my residency or work visa? If not, can he personally lend me money to help me cover my current living expenses? Or would that be considered payment, even if it's coming from him personally and not his business? Thanks for your help!

There is nothing stopping a Canadian employer from paying a foreign national. Of course you are not permitted to work in Canada, regardless of any such payment, without having prior obtained a work permit or exemption from such.