Not only is getting a work visa tough, but any criminal conviction no matter how small or how long ago and you are banned from Canada for life. This includes even something like being convicted of a housing code violation 20 - 30 or more years ago! Now their may be a good chance that if Canada considers it minor and 5 or more years have passed you may get in, but that is up to the customs agent. And everyone knows how unfriendly they tend to be. Especially since 911. In short, if he or she doesn't like you, forget it! Last time I went their they literally threw all my stuff (camping gear) out of my pickup on the ground, of course they didn't find anything but they acted like I was some kind of ax murderer. It wasn't fun. Hey I love Canada, but it all has changed since 911.