Working in Canada
Despite a highly-educated workforce, Canada needs immigrants across its industries,
from the expanding service sector to the skilled trades
ECONOMY
Canada is a highly affluent society very similar
to America in its economic system and patterns
of production. It enjoys a high trade surplus, and
international trade remains key. Overall, Canada
enjoys strong economic prospects and a high standard
of living.
The main changes in the Canadian economy have
been a shift in focus to knowledge-based service
industries.
JOB OPPORTUNITIES
Unemployment is at seven per cent, but rates have
been falling steadily for more than a decade. As well
as the service sector, there are many areas where
skilled trades people such as electricians and welders
are lacking, especially in rural communities. Canada's
key industries include transportation equipment,
chemicals, processed and unprocessed minerals, food
products, wood and paper products, fish products,
petroleum and natural gas.
LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS
Canada is bilingual so it is essential that you speak
either English or French to work or study there.
Which language is more important depends on the
province. Quebec is mostly French speaking, while
Ontario is mostly English. There are also pockets of
French-speaking Canadians (Francophones)
throughout Canada.
FINDING A JOB
Some occupations do not need a work permit, but
if you do need one you will have to prove that you
have been off ered a job in Canada.You may also need
a Social Insurance Number (SIN). To apply you will
need to have either permanent residency or a work
visa. Many people search for jobs on the internet,
and "job banks" - searchable databases - are popular.
Job listings can also be found in national and local
newspapers. Temping agencies are a good way to find
a temporary job, and some of these operate both in
the UK and Canada.
VISAS AND PERMITS
As a UK citizen, you can visit Canada unrestricted for up to six months. You do not need a temporary
residency permit, but you will need health insurance because Medicare does not apply to foreign
nationals.
STUDY PERMITS
Around 130,000 students a year come to Canada to study. If you are doing a course of less than six months in
duration, you do not need a permit. If you wish to extend your study period once you are there, you will have to
leave the country to obtain one, so it is worth getting one anyway. To apply for a study permit you will need a
letter of acceptance from an educational institute, proof that you can support yourself and no criminal record. You
may also have to have a medical examination.
WORK PERMITS
In most cases, you must obtain a work visa to work in Canada. A job offer is an essential part of your application
and it is normally necessary for Human Resources Development Canada (HRDC) to confirm that it is ok for a
foreign national to fill the post. You may also need a SIN
IMMIGRATION POINTS SYSTEM
If you wish to become a permanent resident, you will need to meet the criteria on the immigration points system.
You must gain a minimum of 67 points from a range of factors including age, education, skills and other factors
such as partner's skills or relations in Canada. You must also have skills that fall into one of three types - A, B or O -
which usually require a higher education qualification. Practical training also counts, for example a qualified
plumber would have level B skills, where a general labourer would have only level D. A matrix of professions and
their skill levels can be found at
www.hrdc-drhc.gc.ca. You can apply for any of these visas at the Canadian High
Commission in London, or download them at the Citizens and Immigration Canada (CIC) website
www.cic.gc.ca.
