Canada has long been a popular destination for aspiring immigrants looking for a better life and fresh chances.
If you’re thinking about moving to the Great White North and want to start working right away, this guide will help you through the necessary steps to ensure a smooth and efficient transition.
How to Move to Canada and Start Working Within 30 Days
Before you pack your bags, you should grasp the numerous immigration options open to you. Canada provides various alternatives, including:
1. Express Entry System.
The Express Entry procedure is suitable for competent workers seeking permanent residency. It processes applications for three federal economic immigration programs: the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Federal Skilled Trades Program, and the Canadian Experience Class.
- Eligibility criteria: Determine whether you match the eligibility standards based on your education, work experience, language skills, and other criteria.
- Create an Express Entry profile: Complete your profile and join the Express Entry pool.
- Get an Invitation to Apply (ITA): If you score high enough on the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), you will be issued an ITA to apply for permanent residency.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
PNPs enable Canadian provinces and territories to nominate people who want to immigrate and reside in their respective provinces or territories. Each province has its streams that cater to a variety of demographics, including skilled workers, entrepreneurs, and students.
- Research PNPs: Determine which province or territory best matches your abilities and experience.
- Apply for Nomination: Once nominated, you can apply for permanent residency using the Express Entry system or directly to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Prepare your documents.
Gathering the required documents ahead of time can greatly speed up the immigration procedure. Common documents requested are:
- Passport: Make sure it is valid for at least six months beyond your scheduled arrival date in Canada.
- Educational credentials: This includes transcripts, diplomas, degrees, and, if necessary, educational exams.
- Work Experience: letters from prior employers explaining your job responsibilities and length of service.
- Language competency: proof of English or French language competency (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP).
3. Secure a job offer.
While not necessarily required, having a job offer can improve your prospects of coming to Canada and starting work promptly. Explore prospects in your field by using Internet job boards, professional networking platforms, and recruiting agencies.
- Job Search Strategies: Customize your CV and cover letter to reflect Canadian standards.
- Networking: Use LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your sector and attend virtual job fairs.
- Apply strategically: Consider opportunities that match your talents and expertise while also taking into account local work market expectations.
4. Apply for Your Work Permit
After receiving a job offer or an invitation to apply for permanent residency, you can apply for a work permit. In rare situations, your company may require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to demonstrate the requirement for a foreign worker. Submit your application via IRCC’s online portal.
- Processing Times: Check the current processing times for work permits to predict when you may receive a decision.
- Biometrics and Medical Exams: Attend all necessary biometric appointments and medical exams.
5. Arrive in Canada and settle in.
Congratulations on your successful immigration journey! When you arrive, follow these procedures to start your new life in Canada:
- Activate Permanent Resident: If you immigrated using Express Entry, you must activate your permanent resident status.
- Obtain a Social Insurance Number (SIN): To work in Canada and receive government benefits, you must first obtain a Social Insurance Number.
- Explore your new city: inform yourself of nearby amenities, transit, and community services.
- Attend Events: Join neighborhood clubs, attend cultural events, and meet new people to help you transition.
2 year work permit Canada
A two-year work permit allows you to work in Canada for two years.
It gives you valuable job experience from another country, advances your career, and allows you to live like a Canadian. This permission can be used for working with a single employer or for any employer.
It can also help you live in Canada permanently, which is fantastic for anyone looking to build their profession and life in Canada.
2 Year Work Permit Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you meet the following conditions:
- Job Offer: You have received an offer from a Canadian firm.
- Skills and Qualifications: You possess the required abilities and qualifications for the job.
- Language Requirements: You speak English or French.
- Proof of Departure: You can show that you intend to leave Canada when your permit expires.
Documents You Need
Gather the following documents for your application:
- Passport or travel document
- Job offer letter
- Proof of qualifications (like diplomas)
- Language test results (if needed)
- Biometrics (photo and fingerprints)
- Medical exam results (if needed)
Choose the Right Work Permit
There are several types of work permits:
- Employer-Specific Work Permit: Limited to a single employment and employer
- Open Work Permit: The Open Work Permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada.
Language requirements
- Job-Specific Requirements: Certain positions demand proof of English or French language proficiency.
- Language Tests: To verify your ability, take a recognized language test such as the IELTS or TEF.
- Minimum Scores: Meet the minimum scores specified by the job or work permit category.
- Test Validity: Ensure that your test findings are legitimate and current (typically within two years).
- Document Submission: Submit your language test results along with your work permit application.
Biometrics and Medical Examination
You may be required to provide biometric information (pictures and fingerprints) as well as undergo a medical examination. This is dependent on your country and work.
LMIA
Some jobs in Canada require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA). Your employer will receive this paper. It demonstrates that no Canadian citizen or permanent resident can fill the position; thus, they must hire someone from another nation.
The LMIA process ensures that hiring a foreign worker would not harm Canadian jobs. If your job requires an LMIA, your company must obtain a positive LMIA before applying for your work permit. This is a vital step for your application to succeed.
How to Apply for a Work Permit.
You can apply either online at the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website or in person at a visa application center. Fill out all forms correctly and provide all required documents. Pay the fee for applying and keep a copy of your payment proof. After you send in your application, watch its status on the internet. Be ready to give more information if the IRCC asks for it. Doing this helps make sure your application is handled well and fast.
Pay the Application Fee
There is a charge for processing your work permit.
Pay this charge when you apply.
Wait for a decision.
After you apply, it may take some time to receive a decision.
Be patient while checking the status of your application online.
Prepare for your arrival.
While waiting, prepare for your migration to Canada:
- Find somewhere to live.
- Learn about the cost of living.
- Arrange for health insurance.
- Learn about Canadian culture and work.
Work permit processing time after LMIA
After receiving an LMIA-approved job offer, apply for a work permit on the Canada Immigration website. If you apply from outside of Canada, the processing time as of now is 45 days. If you apply for a work visa from within Canada, the online application processing time is 98 days.
Documents required for Canada work permit
The documentation necessary varies depending on the type of work permit being applied for. The following documents are necessary for a Canadian work permit application:
- Filled-up application forms
- resume/CV
- Marriage certificate (if applicable)
- A verified copy of the passport
- Latest passport-size photographs
- Proof of payment for relevant government fees
- Medical examination results (when applicable)
- A copy of the education credentials
- Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) (when applicable)
- Proof of status in Canada (when applicable)
- Proof of the status of family members (when applicable)
- A written offer of employment (when applicable)
- Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) (when applicable)
- Proof of meeting the job requirements
- Proof of financial means to live in Canada and also to return
Police Clearances Requirements
You may be asked to produce police clearance certificates. Based on the country.
You are applying, and this document may already be on the application checklist. This must be sent along with the first documents.
Applicants may be asked to present this certificate from any nation in which they have lived for six months or longer as adults.
Medical Examination Requirements
If you plan to work in Canada for longer than 6 months and meet the following circumstances, you may be required to submit a medical exam report.
The examination must be performed by a panel physician appointed by the IRCC. Applicants can choose to get a medical checkup before submitting their application, or they can submit the results later within the specified time range.
Photo requirements
Applicants must provide a passport-sized photo with their application. The photo specs should comply with the IRCC’s criteria. Additional requirements include two photographs of the applicant and accompanying family members.
Photographs must be on high-quality photographic paper.
LMIA Application Requirements:
LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) applications are classified into two types:
- Regular LMIA: It typically takes 5 months to receive a response because each application is evaluated individually.
- Simplified LMIA: This applies solely in Quebec. This typically takes two to three months to process.
If you qualify for Canada’s Global Talent Stream, your application may be eligible for accelerated processing.
Canada work visa requirements
The requirements for a Canadian work visa are as follows:
- A valid passport
- Application form
- Photo
- Resume/CV
- Language proficiency certificate
- Job offer
- Accommodation proof
- Clean record certificate
- Proof of having enough funds
- Previous visa (if any)
- Marriage certificate
- LMIA (if required)
- Medical exam (if required)
Please keep in mind that the conditions for each Canadian work visa vary. Also, the authorities may request additional requirements.
What is the Canada work permit processing time after biometrics?
The processing period for a Canada work permit after biometrics can vary; however, it may take up to 30 business days (6 weeks) or around 6 months. Some cases, particularly those requiring additional security examinations, can take up to 12-18 months.
FAQS
Can I just move to Canada and get a job?
If you are an American citizen wishing to work in Canada, you will need to have certain documents in order. You can’t just show up and start working as a tourist; that’s not an option. So let’s break it down. First and foremost, you have three options: a permanent residency permit, a work permit, and a study permit.
What is the fastest way to get a work permit in Canada?
- Apply online from outside Canada.
- Submit a comprehensive application, including a medical exam (if necessary).
- Submit your biometric findings within two weeks of filing your application (if necessary).
What is the fastest way to move to Canada?
The Express Entry program is the shortest option to get permanent residency in Canada. To enroll in this program, you must be a highly skilled individual. The pathway is point-based, with scores based on experience, qualifications, education, and talents.
How do I move to Canada and start working?
To work and become a permanent resident of Canada, check your eligibility and apply to the
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Express Entry.
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Express entry, including its Ph. D.
- Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP): Express Entry.
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
How to get a job in Canada easily?
If you are currently in another country, you must follow certain procedures before you can live and work in Canada.
1. Apply for a social insurance number.
2. Determine whether your qualifications are recognized.
3. Improve your French or English.
4. Find services for immigrants.
5. Set up an account for your employment hunt.
How long does it take to get a work permit in Canada?
A response to a conventional LMIA application typically takes at least five months. If an employer is eligible for Canada’s Global Talent Stream, they may be able to expedite their LMIA procedure. The streamlined LMIA completed for Quebec employment is often processed within two to three months.
Conclusion
Moving to Canada and starting employment within 30 days is possible with proper planning and preparedness.
You can easily handle the immigration process by learning the various pathways, acquiring relevant paperwork, securing a job offer, and applying for your work permit.
Once you arrive, seize the chances and experiences that Canada has to offer as you embark on this exciting new chapter in your life.
Canada awaits—begin your journey today!