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How to Apply for Jobs in Canada as an Immigrant: A Canadian work permit is the first step in obtaining permission to work in Canada as an immigrant.
The process involves several steps, including obtaining a job offer from a Canadian employer, obtaining a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), and submitting a work permit application.
Each year, Canada issues about half a million work permits to temporary foreign workers around the world.
Foreign nationals seeking employment opportunities in another country, Canada is a perfect destination for every international job seeker.
Canadian work permit eligibility documents
- A valid passport or travel document
- Two recent passport-sized photographs.
- Evidence that you meet the requirements for your prospective job
- Proof of relationships with all spouses, children or common-law partners
- A positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), if applicable. if required (The Quebec LMIA Application Process and Extensions to Quebec Work Permits). This is a document that is issued by the Canadian government and confirms that there is a need for a foreign worker to fill the position.
- Evidence of your qualifications, education, and work experience, such as your resume, educational diplomas and certificates, and employment letters.
- Proof of financial support, such as bank statements, to demonstrate that you can support yourself during your stay in Canada.
- Application forms and fees.
- Biometric information, such as fingerprints, face ID, and signatures.
Conditions for a Canadian work permit
- a period of authorized stay;
- the type of work;
- the employer you work for;
- location of work; and
- times and period of work;
In the processing of work permits, there are specific situations when imposing these conditions is mandatory.
ALSO READ: Immigrate To Canada: How To Apply For Express Entry Program
Types of Canadian work permits
Canada has several different types of work permits based on your occupation and your reason for entering the country. For example, if you are coming to Canada as a TV host for a set amount of time with a job that is unionized and well paid, then your type of work permit will reflect that. In this case, you would apply for an Employer Specific Work Permit.
Below is a Comprehensive list of the types of Canadian work permits:
- Temporary Work Permit
- Open Work Permit
- Employer-Specific Work Permit
- Global Talent Stream Work Permit
- International Mobility Program Work Permit
- Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program Work Permit
- Caregiver Program Work Permit
- Live-In Caregiver Program Work Permit
- Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program Work Permit
- Post-Graduation Work Permit
- International Experience Canada Work Permit
- Intra-Company Transfer Work Permit
- Significant Benefit Work Permit
- Francophone Mobility Work Permit
- Treaty Trader or Investor Work Permit
- Bridging Open Work Permit
- Refugee Claimant Work Permit
- Spousal Open Work Permit
- Student Work Permit (for co-op or internship)
- Performing Arts Work Permit
- Film and Television Work Permit
Work permit programs in Canada
Two major types of work permit programs in Canada:
- Temporary Foreign Worker Program: A Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) is required for a foreign national to obtain a work permit
- International Mobility Program: An LMIA is not required for a foreign national to obtain a work permit
Tips: A permanent resident already residing in Canada does not need a work permit to apply for a job in Canada. Permanent resident status gives any individual right to work and live freely anywhere in the country.
Purpose Of The LMIA
The purpose of the LMIA is for employers to demonstrate to the Canadian government that the hiring of a foreign worker will not hurt Canada’s existing workforce.
Each type of work permit has its own eligibility criteria, application process, and validity period. It’s important to research each type of work permit and determine which one is best suited to your individual circumstances.
How to Apply For Jobs in Canada as an Immigrant
Step 1: Research
Before you start applying for jobs, it’s important to research the job market and the industries that are in high demand in Canada. The Canadian government’s Job Bank is a great place to start your research.
You can visit their websites to get an idea of the company culture and to find out about any job openings and get a sense of the job market and the types of jobs that are available.
This will give you a better understanding of the skills and jobs that are in demand and help you tailor your job search accordingly.
Step 2: Update your CV
Your CV is your first impression on potential employers, so it’s essential to create a professional and tailored CV. It’s time to master those writing skills and get to work. Make sure you have an absolutely stunning CV to hand in.
Make sure your resume highlights your skills, education, and work experience clearly and concisely.
If you’re unsure about how to create a Canadian-style resume. Here is an outline on how to write the perfect CV for work in Canada to help you get the inside deals of what your Canadian employers expect to see on your CV.
Your resume is the all-important first impression, so don’t fall short at this crucial first step when applying for jobs in Canada.
Step 3: Networking
It is easier to find a job if you have a set network of contacts. Networking can help you search for jobs in Canada’s job market. It’s also a good way to tell many people that you’re looking for work.
Join industry associations, attend networking events, and connect with professionals in your field using powerful tools like LinkedIn. Remember, most available jobs in Canada never get advertised publicly.
This is the so-called hidden job market, so don’t sit at home waiting for that job to come and find you. Networking is crucial to finding jobs in Canada. Keep in mind to reach out to other internationals like yourself and ask for advice.
Step 4: Consider Volunteering
Volunteering is an excellent way to gain Canadian work experience and expand your professional network.
Working as a volunteer can help you:
- Get Canadian work experience
- Practice your English or French
- Build your network of contacts
- Meet Canadians and make friends
- Find someone who will be a reference for you
- Show potential employers that you’re willing to work hard.
Volunteering can also help you develop new skills and demonstrate your commitment to your community.
One way to expand your local network of contacts and get an excellent Canadian work experience on your resume is to volunteer. Visit GoVolunteer.ca to find volunteer opportunities.
ALSO READ: How To Immigrate To Canada: The Ultimate Guide
Step 5: Apply for Jobs that Match Your Skills
When applying for jobs, make sure you’re applying for positions that match your skills and experience. Don’t waste your time applying for jobs that are outside your skillset or experience level.
Instead, focus on positions that align with your background and experience. This will increase your chances of getting an interview and ultimately landing a job.
Step 6: Know Your Rights
You should learn about provincial and federal labour laws before you begin work in Canada. The Canadian government has laws that protect the rights of all workers, including immigrants.
You have the right to join a labour union in Canada. You often have to join a union whether you choose it or not. Union fees will be taken from your salary.
Familiarize yourself with your employment rights and responsibilities, including minimum wage, hours of work, and health and safety regulations.
Step 7: Child Care
If you are a child or you have a child under the age of 12, you will have to apply for child care. Canadian child care law does not allow children under the age of 12 to stay at home alone
There are different options for child care:
- Nursery schools
- Drop-in day-care centres
- Licensed day-care centres
- Home babysitting day-care services
Don’t be discouraged if it takes some time to find the right job – remember that many immigrants have successfully established themselves in Canada and started successful careers.
If your application is still processing and you can’t complete your Immigration Medical Exam (IME) due to COVID-19, you will be asked to provide the following
- Proof that a medical appointment is scheduled, including the name of the panel physician and the date and time of the appointment, or
- A letter of explanation of your efforts to have the IME done
Canada work permit processing
The cost for work permits in Canada remains the same regardless of the industry in which you work or the stream under which you apply.
- Application – Processing fee in $ CAD
- Work permit – $155 per person
- Open work permit – $100 per person
- Restore a work permit – $355
