C50 Work Permit in Canada: Charitable and Religious Workers

The C50 work permit is a lesser known but valuable option for foreign nationals coming to Canada to perform charitable or religious work. It is LMIA-exempt under the International Mobility Program, meaning eligible applicants can work in Canada without their organization first obtaining a Labour Market Impact Assessment.

At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Firm in Winnipeg, Manitoba, we help churches, faith groups, and non-profit organizations navigate C50 applications and avoid common refusal issues.

What Is the C50 Work Permit?

C50 is an LMIA exemption code used for applications under IRPR section R205(d), which covers work that provides Canadian interests through charitable or religious benefit.

This category typically applies where the foreign national will work for a Canadian charitable or religious organization in a role that supports the
organization’s mission, and the work is not primarily for commercial gain.

Who Is C50 For?

C50 is commonly used for:

• Religious workers (ministers, pastors, priests, imams, spiritual leaders, missionaries)
• Members of religious orders
• Charitable workers supporting a Canadian non-profit or registered charity
• Community outreach or social service roles run by faith-based or charitable institutions

In Manitoba, C50 applications often involve organizations seeking workers for community support, worship services, youth programs, settlement help, or charitable outreach in Winnipeg and surrounding communities.

How A&M Canadian Immigration Law Firm Can Help

C50 applications require careful positioning of the role and clear supporting evidence. At A&M Canadian Immigration Law Firm in
Winnipeg, Manitoba, we assist with:

• Determining if the role fits C50 vs. another category
• Drafting strong organizational support letters
• Employer Portal and compliance steps
• Work permit applications and extensions
• Long-term planning for workers and organizations

If your Winnipeg-area church, charity, or community organization is planning to bring a religious or charitable worker to Canada, we can guide you through the C50 process from start to finish.