If you are considering working in Canada, you must understand the different types of work permits and employment restrictions. Here are some tips to help you find your first job in Canada, no matter if you’re a tourist, a student, or a job seeker.
Working According to Your Status
Understanding your work permit and visa requirements before seeking employment in Canada is essential.
Working Under a Study Permit
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The experience of working while you study can be extremely valuable for international students enrolled in Canadian universities. If you wish to work off campus, there are specific conditions on your study permit that must be met:
- On-campus employment: Working on campus does not require a separate permit if you are enrolled full-time at a public post-secondary institution.
- Private institutions in Quebec: Students attending private colleges and universities can work on and off campus.
- Vocational programs in Quebec: Students who complete 900 hours or more at secondary or post-secondary schools qualify for exemption from the permit requirement.
Working Under an Open Work Permit
Those who are not Canadian citizens can apply for an open work permit, which allows them to work for any employer in the country. You can choose between two types of permits:
- Unrestricted open work permits: Provide freedom without limitations on profession or location.
- Open work permits with restrictions: Variations can be imposed on open work permits depending on the type of permit and health status, such as location restrictions on nominee class permits issued by provincial governments.
Working With an Employer-Specific Work Permit
Depending on your employer, you may be required to obtain a work permit specific to your job offer in Canada. Obtaining this permit requires documents, such as an employment contract or Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), from your employer.
Working with a Tourist Visa
Tourist visas cannot be used to work in Canada. It is possible to apply for a work permit while in Canada if you receive a legitimate job offer during your visit.
Working Under ETA
In spite of the fact that an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is required when entering Canada, it does not grant permission to work or study. The application for an employment permit or an educational permit requires a separate permit.
Job Application Documents in Canada
A Canadian job application requires the following documents:
An individual’s Social Security Number (SIN)
To work in Canada, you need a Social Insurance Number (SIN). A copy can be obtained by:
- Applicants can apply online at the official website of the Government of Canada.
- The drop down menu will allow you to select “First Social Insurance Number”.
- Upload digital copies of the original documents along with the completed form.
- Within 15 days, you should receive your Social Security Number by mail.
Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
The LMIA is not required for each foreign worker, but prospective employers may request it if they have a genuine need to hire foreigners.
Resume
When applying for a job in Canada, you need to write a resume that adheres to Canadian standards. There are several key elements to include:
- Employer-tailored skills
- Qualifications
- Employed in relevant positions with relevant experience
- The ability to transfer skills from one country to another
- For ease of reading, use a format that is clear and structured
Avoiding Job Scams
It is important to be aware of job offer scams that involve payment for fictitious positions. Do not give your financial information or personal details to recruiters who guarantee a job offer. It is vital that legitimate employment offers include the contact details and official letterhead of the company.
Where to Find Jobs
For Canadian job seekers, the following websites offer job listings and resources:
- Job Bank Canada: An official website that features job postings from all over Canada.
- Indeed: A user-friendly job search engine that searches the entire world for jobs.
- LinkedIn: Provides networking opportunities and job postings.
- Glassdoor: Employer reviews, salary information, and job postings.
- Government Websites: Several provincial and territorial governments offer job board and immigration resources on their websites.
Conclusion
It is important to write a resume tailor-made to Canadian standards before you begin your job search in Canada. In order to seamlessly access the Canadian workforce, it is important to follow the right procedures and obtain necessary permits. Have a great time searching for jobs in Canada.