Glossary & Links

Case Processing Centre

This is the location where you would apply when you are already in Canada on a Working Holiday Visa. You can apply for a 'Change of Status'. This process does not apply to people who are on a holiday or visitor's visa.

CIC - 'Citizenship and Immigration Canada'

CIC is the government agency that you see at the airports and in the consulates. It is this government agency that accepts your application and compares it to the HRDC paperwork and approves your Work Authorization.

HRSDC -'Human Resources and Skills Development Canada'

HRSDC is the government agency that validates the applications for Whistler Blackcomb. Whistler Blackcomb negotiates with this agency every year to keep the Foreign Recruit Program running.

Whistler Blackcomb Sponsorship Program

This HRSDC program enables us to provide Canadian Work Authorizations to foreign individuals with certain/specific qualifications. The program is renegotiated by both parties (Whistler Blackcomb and HRSDC) every year and the qualifications required by applicants are subject to change by HRSDC each year to reduce the number of validations that HRSDC will allow us.

Letter of Offer

Whistler Blackcomb will provide a letter of offer that you must include in your visa application. It is a written backup stating you are part of this program.

Mission Abroad

Mission Abroad is the term used by HRSDC and CIC to refer to the Embassy or Consulate where you would apply, i.e. the Sydney Canadian Consulate is also referred to as the Sydney Mission Abroad. For details on the location and hours of operation of your Mission Abroad, please refer to the government website:
http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/offices/missions.html

Work Visa, Work Authorization and Work Validation

These terms all mean the same thing. It is the piece of paper provided to you when you enter the country at the airport or when crossing the border into Canada. This document is stapled into your passport and is your official working paper.