Working in Canada
Prior to your job search within Canada, you more than likely have a lot of questions about how working in Canada may be different than your home country. Thankfully, there are many immigrant serving organizations in most Canadian cities that are dedicated to helping you transition into the work environment. This article is written specifically for those who are planning to search for, apply to, and work in existing Canadian businesses, or non-profit organizations.
Looking for Work
Finding work within Canada is much easier for those who have access to the internet. If you are able, we suggest that you use websites such as Job Bank, or Indeed to see what type of work is available in the city you wish you immigrate to. If you do not have access to the internet, calling or going to a Service Canada location closest to you could be your first step to finding work. We also suggest that you consider volunteering in a role similar to what job role you would like to earn. For example, if you are a teacher, volunteering with local children or teenagers may benefit you in your job search; click here for volunteer organizations in your area.
If you know you need a license or certification to work within your industry in Canada, there are many bridging programs available to you such as courses, exam preparation, and language training. To find these bridging programs, contact the regulatory body for your profession, or an immigration serving organization within Canada.
Applying to Work
Once you have found a job you would like to apply to, most employers ask for a cover letter, which is a short description of why you would be a good fit for that job, and a resume which is a list of your education, qualifications, and work experience. Click here if you would like some guidance with writing either a cover letter or resume, or a Service Canada location closest to you can also help get you started.
Interview Process
Depending on your resume and cover letter, an employer will typically ask you to do an interview either on the phone or in person. The purpose of an interview is to give the employer a chance to meet you and ask a series of follow up questions regarding the role you have applied to, as well as for you to learn more about the role, and whether you want to work for that organization. Click here for information on how to prepare for an interview.
Regulations in Canada
There are federal, and provincial laws that protect workers and employers through setting a minimum wage, working hours, maternal/parental leave, vacation time, and health and safety requirements. Further, human rights laws exist to protect you from being treated negatively due to you age, religion, race, gender, disability, or sexual orientation. Canada also offers Employment Insurance or EI, which provides you with short-term financial help if you become unemployed due to being sick, injured, quarantined, pregnant, caring for a newborn, or caring for a family member who is severely ill and near death. You must pay into EI with each pay cheque in order to be eligible to use EI; your employer will typically take your EI payment out of your pay cheque.
If you’re interested in applying for a work Visa in Canada, we have the experience and ability to help you achieve your goal - to book a free 30 minute consultation with us, click here.
Written by: Abdollah “Abel” Fathi Nejad
