Canada is a famous destination for American citizens and temporary residents. Most individuals who’ve lived in the US are drawn to Canada because of the similar quality of life it provides. However, getting a job in Canada from the United States can be time-consuming.
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Also, due to Canada’s adequate job opportunities, basic healthcare, diversity, and welcoming immigration schemes. As a US citizen/temporary resident, you will need to get either Canadian PR or a work/study permit to be worthy to work in Canada. You cannot legally work in Canada except if you are in the country as a visitor.
This article will provide information and tips on how easy to get a job in Canada from the United States.
How Easy to Get a Job in Canada From The US
Getting a job in Canada from the US can take time, especially if you aren’t prepared for your job search. Ideally, before you actively start seeking jobs in Canada, you should understand how the Canadian job market works. Also, what a Canadian-style resume looks like, and the skills that are in demand in your profession.
Below are some important steps to help you prepare and expand your possibilities of getting a job in Canada from the US.
1. Acquaint yourself with the Canadian job market
Even though there are resemblances between the work cultures in Canada and the US, the Canadian labor market may be divergent in other ways. In addition, you’ll need to recognize top employers in your industry in Canada and understand their recruitment procedures. There’s a large concealed job market in Canada and about 60 to 80% of available jobs are filled through referrals without publicizing.
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2. Identify in-demand skills in your industry
Even though you have various years of work experience in the US, you may need extra skills to get a job in Canada. Review relevant job displays and see which skills are in demand in Canada. Also, check what employers in your field are looking for in an applicant. This will enable you to understand your skill gaps and up-skill before applying to jobs in Canada.
3. Confirm if you need a license to practice your profession in Canada
Some professions like the healthcare sector, accounting, education, architecture, and engineering are regulated in Canada. You must have a license or register with your local regulatory authority to work in these fields. Ideally, you should confirm if your occupation is managed well before you plan your move to Canada.
However, for some regulated professions if you’re licensed in the US, you may be eligible for a Canadian provincial license under the MRA. Likewise, you may be able to work in Canada temporarily using your US license.
4. Create a Canadian resume format and cover letter
There are three types of resume formats commonly in Canada, reverse chronological, functional, and combination. The best format will depend on the extent of your experience, and whether there is space in your employment record or not. Using a Canadian resume format shows employers you are familiar with the Canadian labor market.
Furthermore, inserting appropriate keywords will improve your chances of getting selected for an interview. Ensure your resume shows your achievements in each role and not just your job duties. Also, you should add a cover letter even if the job posting doesn’t categorically ask for it.
5. Start establishing your network in Canada
Networking is another necessary step in getting a job in Canada from the US. Most available jobs are filled through the recruiters’ networks and your network can enable you to get into the job market. Your pro connections in Canada can also help you understand the job market, in-demand skills, and the hiring procedures of employers.
6. Peruse job portals to find suitable positions
Look for suitable job postings on platforms such as Monster, Indeed, LinkedIn, GrabJobs, and Glassdoor. In case you’ve been approved for an open work permit or permanent residence, you’ll have access to the government’s Job Bank. However, most job portals also permit you to sign up for personalized job alert emails to get relevant job postings.
7. Register with recruitment agencies
Many Canadian employers employ agencies like Robert Half, Randstad Canada, and Hays Canada, to shortlist worthy candidates on their behalf. Furthermore, you can enroll with these agencies, submit your resume, and they will match you with appropriate job openings in your industry.
8. Check for the possibility of an intra-company transfer
Most US-based executives or multinational companies also have a presence in Canada. If you’re a senior manager in such a company, you should confirm if you can move to Canada temporarily via an intra-company transfer. Your employer doesn’t need an LMIA to transfer you to a post in Canada, but you’ll need an employer-specific work permit. As a US citizen, you’re eligible for an intra-company transfer under the USMCA and can apply for a work permit at the port of entry.
Is Moving to Canada From The United States Worth It?
Wondering if moving to Canada from the US is worth it? well, take note of the following reasons.
- You will obtain free healthcare.
- There is a great work-life balance for its immigrants.
- You can also enfold the outdoor lifestyle.
- There are lesser crime rates to guarantee your safety.
In-Demand Jobs You Can Get in Canada From The US
Canada depends heavily on new immigrants and foreign workers to bridge skill scarcity in various industries. However, most provinces and territories print their list of in-demand jobs. Therefore, it’s easier to be eligible for a work permit or PR and get a job in Canada from the US.
There’s no scarcity of jobs in the manufacturing and construction sectors. Job opportunities are also plentiful in the IT and technology sectors, like software engineers, AI and development professionals, and web designers. Furthermore, the services field also has a dire need for skilled workers, especially in marketing, sales, hospitality, and administration.
Other in-demand jobs you can get in Canada include healthcare workers, like doctors, nurses, and pharmacists. However, jobs in these fields are regulated and you’ll need a provincial/territorial license to work as a doctor or nurse in Canada.
Getting a Permanent Job in Canada From The US
Even if you don’t need a visa to enter Canada, you must have a work permit to work. However, to be eligible for a work permit, there are some conditions you have to meet below.
- You must get a job offer from a Canadian employer.
- Your employer must own a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA).
- In addition, you must have enough funds to cater for yourself and your family if they are coming with you.
- You must not have a criminal history.
- You must be sound health-wise.
The Paperwork Necessary to Get a Job in Canada From The US
Once they approve your work permit, PR, or study permit, you’ll need some supplementary documents to get a job and start working. Here’s a list of documents you should have.
- Proof that you can work in Canada. You must have a PR card, Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR), work permit, or study permit to work in Canada lawfully.
- Proof of US citizenship, if applying under USMCA. Only citizens of the US or Mexico can work in Canada under the terms of the USMCA. If you’re coming to Canada to work under this agreement, you must provide proof of your US citizenship, like a US passport or certificate of citizenship.
- Social Insurance Number (SIN). Nonetheless, you’ll need a SIN to work in Canada whether you’re a temporary or permanent resident. You can only get your SIN following your arrival in Canada and must share it with your Canadian employer immediately.
- Employment letters. Many employers in Canada will ask for employment recommendation letters, joining and resignation letters, pay receipts, or tax returns that verify your previous work experience. It’s a good idea to contact your former employers for employment recommendation letters well before you move to Canada.
- Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA): It’s an evaluation of your education credentials from another country to verify that they are valid and equal to a Canadian credential.
- Identification documents: Your employer may require you to submit a copy of your passport or other government-issued identification to verify your identity.
How Difficult Is It To Get a Job in Canada From The US?
Getting a job in Canada from the United States can take time. Employers prefer to employ candidates who are already in Canada and approved to work here. However, it makes the recruitment process faster and simpler.
Furthermore, recruiters are trying to fill available positions or those expected to be available soon, and employing local talent saves time. Moreover, most employers need a positive LMIA from the government to employ a foreign national. This process is time-consuming since the employer has to prove that they tried to recruit locally. But, there were no suitable candidates available for the position in Canada.
