Entry Eligibility 

It should be noted that a visa exemption does not guarantee automatic eligibility for entry. Certain requirements must still be met and an immigration officer’s enquiries must be satisfied before entry to Canada is granted. Aside from a valid passport, the individual must be in good health and provide financial proof that they can support themselves and any dependents during his or her stay in Canada. 

Italians Visiting Canada for Work 

In order for Italians visiting Canada to obtain work, they must first acquire a work permit while still in Italy. A work permit will not be issued once the individual has landed in Canada. To apply for a work permit, the applicant must submit the same documents as they would for a temporary resident visa, but they must also include a letter from the employer proving date of hire, type of employment, position held, and leave approval. These documents must be accompanied with an official translation in French or English. In addition, the applicant must also submit his or her biometrics (photo and fingerprints) to obtain the permit. Finally, a fee must be paid before processing of the application can begin. 

Italians Visiting Canada to Study 

Foreign students wishing to study in Canada need a study permit. In order to receive their study permit on time for registration, individuals are encouraged to apply for the permit at the time they receive their letter of acceptance from the Canadian academic institution to which they have applied. In addition to the application form, you must submit proof of acceptance, proof of identity, proof of sufficient funds, biometrics, plus a letter of explanation, if applicable. For those aged 18 or older, a police certificate (Casellario Giudiziale and Carichi Pendent) must also be provided. In some cases, a personal interview or medical exam may be requested. 

Note: a study permit is typically valid for the entire term of the study program, plus an added 90 days. 

International Experience Canada 

International Experience Canada (IEC) is valid for those between the age of 18 and 35 years, in both Canada and Italy. Individuals can participate only once in this program, and do so with the intention of learning about the culture, language and customs of the country. Italians visiting Canada under this program are granted an open work permit for a period of up to 12 months, which allows them to seek and obtain employment in the country during this time. Eligibility requirements include being a permanent resident of Italy. Those wishing to take part in the IEC program must submit a completed application and pay a participation fee. 

Assistance 

Italians visiting Canada in need of assistance can contact the Canadian Embassy in Rome. Italian embassies in Canada can be found in the cities of Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal, Edmonton and Vancouver.