Finding a job and working in Canada
If you want to work in Canada, you might need a work permit. Here's some information to guide you through the application process.
There are various ways to explore employment opportunities in Canada. You can search for a job in Canada while still abroad, enter into a relationship with someone studying or working in Canada with a valid work permit, consider applying for one of the three parts of the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, or explore the option of applying for permanent residency.
Work permits in Canada
If you're looking to work temporarily in Canada, you'll need a job offer from an employer and must apply for a work permit. Before applying, your future employer has to request and pay for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Canadian Immigration and Citizenship Services. If the assessment confirms that there's no Canadian or permanent resident available for the offered position, you can proceed to apply for your work permit. This tool can assist you in figuring out if you require a work permit and which type is suitable for your situation.
Some employers are not required to go through the EIMT process. If you're fluent in French, consider exploring the Mobilité francophone program or the Jeunes Professionnels permit (details below). Additionally, individuals in specialized fields, like performing artists, may be able to work in Canada without a work permit, given specific conditions. Furthermore, if you're applying for a Working Holiday Permit (WHP) or a post-graduation permit, you won't need a job offer. For further details, visit the immigration and citizenship section of the Canadian government website.
In most cases, work permit applications must be submitted online via the Canadian government website. Once you have submitted your application, you can check processing times on this page.
Applicants with a closed work permit have permission to work only for a specific predetermined employer. On the other hand, certain applicants can secure an open work permit, allowing them to work without restrictions on the employer. This applies to spouses and partners of individuals who are coming to study or work in Canada with a valid permit. In this case, the spouse is not required to secure a job before departure.
If you wish to extend your stay in Canada, you must renew your status at least 30 days before your current work permit expires.
Good to know:
Depending on your country of origin, you may need to apply for a visitor's visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in addition to your work permit.
What are the conditions for obtaining a work permit in Canada?
You need to convince the officer that you will depart from Canada when your authorized stay period ends. Additionally, you must demonstrate that you have enough funds to sustain yourself and your family throughout your stay in the country. It's essential to be law-abiding, not pose any danger to the country, and have a clean criminal record; a police certificate might be necessary. Furthermore, good health is a requirement, and you may have to undergo a medical examination if necessary.
You shouldn't have the intention of getting a job with an employer on the list of ineligible employers. Upon arrival, you must be prepared to provide any additional documents requested by the officer to assess your eligibility to enter the country.
IEC
If your country has an agreement with Canada and you're between 18 and 30 years old (or 35 for French citizens), you have the opportunity to come to Canada through one of three IEC programs: the Working Holiday Permit (WHP), the Young Professionals Permit, and the International Co-op Internship Permit. The procedures for IEC are simpler and shorter compared to the traditional method of obtaining a work permit.
To get started, you need to sign up in the candidate pool on the official Government of Canada website. You can express your interest in multiple programs. Periodically, candidates from the pool are invited to submit their applications. It's important to be aware that these programs have a set number of beneficiaries each year, and invitations stop once the annual quotas are met.
With the WHP, you can travel to Canada for up to 1 or 2 years, working to fund your trip. This means you have the flexibility to switch employers as you like. On the other hand, the Young Professionals Permit allows you to work for a single employer, which you must secure before your departure, in a field related to your studies. This permit, also valid for a maximum of 2 years, is designed to provide you with your initial work experience in Canada.
Finally, if you need an internship to pursue your studies in your home country and you have an offer from an employer in Canada, you'll be interested in the Internship Co-op International permit.
Good to know:
The WHP is a program in great demand, and applicants are selected at random. Your chances of coming to Canada will be greater if you apply in the Young Professionals or International Co-op Internship categories.
Permanent residence in Canada
If you're looking to make Canada your permanent home, you can pursue permanent residency through various ways. You can either enroll in the federal government's Express Entry program or explore one of Canada's provincial or territorial immigration programs.
In the Express Entry program, individuals seeking permanent residence enter a pool where they are ranked using a points system. Points are awarded based on factors such as professional experience, educational level, job offers, and ties to Canada.
The Canadian authorities regularly extend invitations to individuals with the highest points to apply for permanent residency. While the Express Entry program itself is free, there is a fee associated with applying for permanent residence. Additionally, you'll be responsible for covering expenses related to tasks like document translation.
Except for Quebec, Canadian provinces and territories have the authority to choose candidates from the Express Entry pool. Each of these regions has its own immigration criteria. To get the specifics, it's advisable to consult with the government of the province or territory where you intend to live.
Finding a job in Canada
Finding a job in Canada might initially seem difficult, but with organization and perseverance, you can succeed. If you're a newcomer with an open work permit, consider starting with a job in the food industry while you continue searching for a position or career that truly interests you. During your search, familiarize yourself with both regulated and non-regulated jobs, gather the necessary documents for your job search, and learn how to create a resume, cover letter, and references for interviews. It's common for employers to contact your previous employers, even if they are located abroad, before making a hiring decision. This video from the Canadian government can offer valuable insights to help you get organized. Keep in mind that Canadian CVs typically do not include a photo to prevent any form of discrimination during the job search.
Begin your job search by researching the companies you're interested in working for. Explore the job postings on their websites, and don't hesitate to reach out to the human resources department directly to inquire about current openings. Check job search platforms like LinkedIn or Craigslist, and don't forget to check the classifieds section of newspapers to increase your chances. Additionally, keep an eye out for job fairs, which are common events in Canada. These provide an excellent opportunity to meet with employers and discuss potential job opportunities.
Many resources are at your disposal to assist you in your job search in Canada, including services provided by organizations dedicated to helping immigrants. These organizations often conduct workshops on resume writing and offer training sessions on effective job searching. The Guichet-Emplois website offers valuable free information about professions and careers in Canada, providing details on job opportunities and salaries. With up to 2,000 new job postings daily, it's a valuable resource. Service Canada is another essential source for information on finding and applying for jobs, while the jobs.gc.ca website specifically lists job opportunities within the federal public service.
If you need assistance, consider using the services of an employment agency to help you find suitable jobs. For a list of government employment and training assistance services, reach out to your local Service Canada Centre or visit their website. Finally, make sure to check the website of the province you're interested in for further resources.
Good to know:
To work in Canada, you need a Social Insurance Number (SIN) and a Canadian bank account. You should apply for one as soon as you arrive in Canada.
Networking and volunteering in Canada
It's easier to find a job in Canada if you've already established a network of contacts. Ask family members, friends, and acquaintances if they know of any job openings. Many jobs are never advertised on the Internet.
Volunteering involves offering your services willingly and without pay. Engaging as a volunteer can provide you with valuable Canadian work experience, enhance your English or French language skills, and expand your network of contacts. Try searching the internet for “volunteer” along with your city's name, or reach out to an immigrant-serving organization. Another helpful resource is the Volunteer Canada website.
Having your credentials assessed in Canada
If you're immigrating to Canada as a Federal Skilled Worker, planning to work in a specific profession or trade, or coming to study, it's necessary to get your credentials assessed. To apply for the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), you'll need to obtain an Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA) for your foreign credentials, which includes diplomas and certificates.
For regulated professions, it's typically the regulatory body responsible for your profession that assesses your credentials. Verify with the regulatory body or relevant professional group to determine if credential assessment is required. They will guide you on which credential assessment organization to reach out to, and you can find their contact details on the Guichet-Emplois website. Approximately 20% of jobs in Canada fall under regulation, encompassing roles like architects, plumbers, and engineers. Keep in mind that certain jobs and trades may be regulated in some provinces or territories but not in others. If you are licensed in one province or territory, it may not be accepted in others.
For professions that aren't regulated, some employers may still prefer job applicants to hold licenses or certifications from the relevant professional association. You can have your qualifications evaluated by a foreign credential assessment agency, usually for a fee, and include this information in your CV. Explore further details on getting your credentials assessed for employment in Canada.
Useful links:
Canadian Immigration Service - applying for a work permit
Canadian Immigration Service - check if you need a permit
