I am a Temporary Worker in Canada and am here on a Work Permit issued under Company X. I am an IT Worker and therefore no HRSDC clearance was required for my work permit to be processed.

Now I want to change my company to Company Y and which is ready to provide me an offer letter. Someone please help me with following questions:

1. Can the Company Y process my work permit?
2. What is the process that I need to tell the company Y that is required to get me work permit?
3. Do I require sponsorship from company Y? (I personally feel that as I am already in Canada from March 2005 Company Y is not required to sponsor me)

According to me all that is required is that Company Y should provide me an offer letter and should apply for my Work Permit under the exempt codes of NAFTA so that the HRSDC approval is not required. Please correct me and advice accordingly.

Please let me know as this is a bit urgent.

With warm regards,

Shreeram.

It is not clear that NAFTA is applicable in this case, as this would require that you are a citizen of the USA or Mexico. In order for Company Y to be eligible to employ you, a new work permit must be sought; you can commence work at this company only once you have received such. The details of the position offered and of your qualifications (and citizenship) will determine which category is most suitable and how the case may be processed.