Canada is a hugely popular destination for those looking for a new country to live in. Over 300,000 people immigrate to Canada every year. If you’re looking to move to the Great White North, here’s everything you need to know about working there.
There are great employment opportunities in Canada
Canada has an extremely low unemployment rate and they prioritize hiring Canadian workers before foreign workers, but this doesn’t mean there aren’t great opportunities for you. In order to hire a foreign worker, a Canadian employer has to show that they’ve tried everything to hire a Canadian citizen, submit an application to the Ministry of Labour, and pay a fee of $1,000 CAD. The Canadian government implemented this process to ensure that nationals have a fair chance of employment.
Even with these procedures, there are still plenty of jobs available for foreign employees, who are usually employed as specialists, truck drivers, and workers, and laborers. If you have experience working as a mechanic, electrician, plumber, carpenter, truck driver, or many other professions, you may find the perfect job in Canada.
You have to get a work permit
Anyone who wishes to work in Canada, no matter the duration of employment, will need to secure a work permit. This entire process could take several months, so it’s important that you begin to consider the necessary steps right away. The permit, which is issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), is typically very specific. It will usually outline exactly who you’re working for, in what capacity, and how long you can be employed. To obtain a regular work permit, you receive an offer from a Canadian employer who then needs to complete the LMIA application. You have to be eligible for the permit, meaning you have no criminal record and are willing to leave Canada when your permit expires.
In certain circumstances, you may receive an open work permit, which does not limit you to a specific employer. If you fall into one of several categories, including the Federal Skilled Worker and Federal Skilled Trades Program, you can apply for an open work permit. You may not need a permit at all. Many people don’t require a work permit, including members of the clergy, athletes, and military personnel. Because there are so many exemptions, it’s a good idea to work with professionals to understand the steps you’ll need to take.
An LMIA is necessary in order to receive a job offer
An LMIA or Labour Market Impact Assessment is required if a Canadian employer would like to hire a foreign worker. The hiring company needs to submit paperwork to Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC) which demonstrates that they were unable to find a Canadian citizen to fill the position. They will have to explain who applied for the position, who was interviewed, and why those applicants were not hired. ESDC will then determine if the company did its due diligence and if a foreign worker would benefit the nation.
A positive LMIA can be difficult to achieve if the business applying is unfamiliar with the process, and completing it incorrectly or receiving a negative LMIA can discourage them from applying again in the future. Working with professionals to complete the LMIA will help ensure success.
Immigration and employment are complicated. Each country has its own laws and Canada is no different. By working with professionals to obtain your work permit and find employment, you’ll increase your chances of working in Canada. Don’t attempt to immigrate to a new country without assistance. The experts will help you find amazing employment and complete all the necessary paperwork.
