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Work in Canada: Requirements and opportunities
Everything you need to know to work in Canada is here: where to look for jobs and the salaries you can expect.
To learn how you can work in Canada, read this article until the end, as we’ve prepared this complete guide giving you all the steps to get the job you want in the North American country.
You will learn all the requirements, permits, salaries, and even quality of life in Canada. This will help you form a realistic idea of how to plan your life there.
Of course, we’ve selected some Canadian apps and government programs you can use to start your job search safely, knowing all conditions offered for your work. Take note in your travel notebook!
Advantages of Working in Canada
Canada offers multiple advantages. Here we highlight some of the most important, so you can better understand the benefits of being a foreign worker. Let’s get started!
1. High Quality of Life in Canada
Canada ranks among the top 10 nations in the Global Social Progress Index by the OECD. This is thanks to its education, health, and social welfare systems growing alongside its economy.
In Canada, you can enjoy significant personal and professional development, along with factors like earning a good salary and having time for friends or family activities.
2. Competitive Salaries
Salaries in Canada are high, even at entry-level jobs or professions, giving you financial stability quickly once you start working.
Education is highly valued, so the more qualifications you have, the better your salary. To see average salaries for specific jobs, keep reading as we’ll detail them below.
3. Inclusive and Multicultural Environment
Many cultures converge in Canada, shaping the country’s identity, as it has historically welcomed immigrants from all over the world.
In Canada, you can grow personally without barriers, enriching yourself with other cultures through your work in the country.
4. High-Quality Education and Training
The country has one of the most efficient education systems globally, so if you live there, you can complement your studies to improve knowledge, income, and quality of life.
Companies also usually provide training spaces for employees, ensuring better and up-to-date work quality.
Requirements to Work in Canada
Canada has certain requirements for foreigners wanting to work. We list them here so you can note them carefully:
Work Permits in Canada: There are two main types of permits you can access:
- Open Work Permit: Costs CAD 255 ($185 (€173)) and allows you to work anywhere in Canada without employer or sector restrictions. No prior job offer is needed. Duration depends on your visa.
- Closed Work Permit: Costs CAD 155 ($113 (€106)). This permits work with a specific employer, location, and role. There are two types: LMIA-exempt closed permit and positive LMIA closed permit.
- *Positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA): Employers must ensure hiring foreign workers won’t negatively affect local employment.
- Canadian Job Offer: In some cases, you need an offer from a Canadian employer, who will submit your services request to the Government of Canada.
- Language: English is necessary for most jobs. French is essential if going to Québec.
- Personal Documents: Valid passport, work, academic, and judicial certificates in order.
- Proof of Funds: Demonstrate you can support yourself until you earn your first salary.
- Medical Exams: Prove you are in good physical health with a general check-up included in your documents.
Tips to Start Working in Canada
For success in Canada’s job search, keep these tips in mind:
Have your own internet connection: Relying on public Wi-Fi may waste time and opportunities.
Consider Holafly monthly plans, offering unlimited data with no roaming cost and the ability to connect other devices. Travel to 170+ countries without changing your plan.
Translate and adapt your CV to Canadian style: Employers should read it in English in the format they know and prefer.
Do not omit any documents: Even if some may not be required, having them accelerates your work permit and application process.
Research the companies where you send your resumes and about the country in general: Get to know the companies you aspire to work for, as during interviews, they may ask you about the company’s operations and basic details about the location. It’s also important to know about the city and province where you’ll be living.
Types of Jobs in Canada for Foreigners
There are many jobs in Canada, each with specific requirements regarding language, education, and experience.
According to Indeed, Canada has job openings in retail and hospitality, such as cleaning and sales. There are also roles in care for people with disabilities, seniors, or children.
Professional sectors like health, engineering, and IT also require staff, so you could pursue roles if qualified.
Most In-Demand Jobs for Foreigners in Canada
High-demand jobs for foreigners in Canada are related to construction, sales, finance, or social assistance, including roles for sociologists, psychologists, and social sciences professionals.
The extractive industry also consistently needs skilled personnel.
Canada provides great opportunities to develop professionally, either in your field or outside it. Starting with a temporary job if necessary allows you to gain experience and gradually advance to the desired role matching your profile.
Salaries and Cost of Living in Canada
Now let’s talk about salaries in Canada. Minimum wage varies by region and is calculated hourly.
Average hourly pay ranges from CAD 15 ($11 (€10)) to CAD 17 ($13 (€12)) for a 40-hour work week, equating to approximately CAD 2,720 ($2,010 (€1,849)) per month or CAD 40,000 ($29,500 (€27,200)) per year.
However, the minimum wage is primarily intended for young workers who are just gaining experience in certain sectors. In other words, experience and qualifications are valued, with salaries well above the minimum wage.
Let’s take a look at some examples of salaries in Canadian dollars, according to the role or profession, so you have a better idea of how much you can earn if you pursue any of the following positions Factors such as working in major cities in Canada may result in earning a bit more than in a province or rural areas:
- Financial Analyst: CAD 60,000-100,000 ($44,000-68,000 (€40,800-€68,000)).
- Web Developer: CAD 70,000-120,000 per year ($51,000-88,000 (€47,600-€81,600)).
- Marketing Manager: CAD 65,000-110,000 per year ($47,000-80,000 (€44,200-€74,800)).
- Project Manager: CAD 80,000-130,000 per year ($58,000-95,000 (€54,400-€88,400)).
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Where to Find Job Opportunities in Canada
Choose the apps and digital portals carefully for your job search in Canada. This will help you save time, focus on what you want, and avoid scams. Be cautious!
Some well-known apps are Indeed.ca, LinkedIn, Job Bank Canada, and Canada.jobs.com, where you can find legitimate job offers from reputable, certified, and easily verified companies.
Also, you can go directly to the websites of companies you want to join, as some have recruitment sections. There you can create your profile and upload information to apply for open positions.
Additionally, you can participate in government job and residency programs, such as Express Entry. These programs attract skilled labour, including professionals and trade experts.
To be selected, you must meet criteria in a points-based system. Points are given for education, age, language skills, and work experience.
You can apply on the Immigration Canada website when the calls open. Stay alert for updates on the portal.
Frequently Asked Questions About Working in Canada
Yes, you can. However, the process may take time and depends on your circumstances, for example obtaining a request for your services from another employer and waiting for your status change.
Yes, ideally you should have an intermediate level of English or French if living in Québec. This ensures you get the job and can communicate effectively with colleagues and supervisors.
Monthly expenses in Canada can range from CAD 1,250 ($925 (€850)) to CAD 1,700 ($1,260 (€1,156)). These values vary by city and lifestyle.
No, you do not need to be in Canada to apply for a work permit. However, if you are legally in Canada, you can apply while meeting all requirements.
Yes, it’s important to attach a language certificate (English or French) to apply for a job in Canada. This is also required for Express Entry programs.
