3.2 New to Canada-2

International Postdoctoral Fellows 

UBC is proud of its diverse and international body of PDFs. For PDFs arriving from outside of Canada, your employment within Canada may be contingent upon certain requirements. It is your responsibility to ensure that these requirements are met prior to starting your postdoctoral appointment and are maintained throughout your time as a PDF at UBC.

Immigration Process

Foreign PDFs are required to apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Links to an external site. for entry into Canada. IRCC will normally issue a work permit to PDFs who are employed by and performing work at UBC.
The Immigration Process for Foreign PDFs on the Faculty Relations website outlines the steps involved in obtaining a temporary work permit and Social Insurance Number (SIN). It also provides information on what is expected after the foreign PDF arrives at UBC.
Please visit the Faculty Relations website for complete information on topics such as:
• Work Permit
• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)
• electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
• Where and how to apply for your visa/permit
• Permit for accompanying dependents
• Implied Status and how it affects MSP coverage

For assistance with the immigration process or relocation support, please contact:

Trisha Kasawski, Senior HR Associate
trisha.kasawski@ubc.ca
250.807.9819


Employment for International PDF Spouses/Partners
If you are accompanied by your spouse (or common-law partner), and provided your offer is valid for at least six months, s/he will be eligible to apply for a spousal open work permit, which allows the spouse/partner to search for and take up employment in Canada. Application for a spousal open work permit requires proof of your relationship (i.e. a marriage certificate or a statutory declaration of common law relationship Links to an external site.) and a copy of your work permit (unless PDF and spousal applications are made concurrently). A medical examination might also be required depending on the desired field of work, Links to an external site. especially when pursuing employment in health services, child care, primary or secondary education. If you or your spouse/partner plan to stay for more than 6 months and have lived in one or more of these countries or territories Links to an external site. for at least 6 months in a row within the last year of applying, you might equally need a medical examination. More information and is available through Citizenship & Immigration Canada Links to an external site.. 

Spousal Employment Support