Are we needed in Canada? Prospects and requirements for immigrants.

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The article covers important topics such as: how in-demand foreigners are in Canada, where to look for job opportunities, conditions for migrants, the Express Entry employment program, obtaining a work permit, work visas for Canada, in-demand professions, salary levels, and taxes.

The relevance of foreigners in Canada

Modern realities show that the demand for foreign specialists in Canada is becoming particularly relevant. This trend is linked to a shortage of highly qualified personnel, an aging population, and a decrease in natural growth. Canada is actively promoting economic development, and attracting migrants is one of the key strategies.

Immigration plans for the future

According to the immigration program for 2024-2026, the country plans to accept around half a million new citizens each year, which is a true record. The current unemployment rate is around 6%, indicating the stability and attractiveness of the Canadian labor market for professionals. However, it is important to consider that competition in the job market is quite high, both for locals and newcomers. The most representative group among immigrants remains citizens:

• India (27%)
• China (7.2%)
• Afghanistan (5.4%)
• Nigeria (5%)
• Philippines (5%)

Classification of immigration flows

Immigration processes in Canada can be broadly classified into several categories. The most significant category is economic migration, which accounts for about 57% of all cases. This category includes both highly skilled professionals and workers with adequate qualifications. The country has a pressing need for:

• engineers
• pilots
• medical workers
• analytics

In 2024, the government plans to significantly increase the quotas for invited professionals in the fields of healthcare, transportation, agriculture, and trade.

Innovative programs for migrants

In 2023, new immigration programs came into effect, such asInnovation Stream...simplifying the employment process for foreign specialists in technical fields. Workers no longer need to obtain a prior assessment of the labor market, and they can apply for a work permit immediately for a period of up to five years.

Where to look for a job in Canada?

If you are considering moving to Canada, it is recommended to pay attention to major cities such as:

• Toronto
• Vancouver
• Calgary
• Montreal
• Ottawa

In these areas, the unemployment rate is lower than the national average, which increases the chances of finding a job. It is important to note that job vacancies are available in various corners of Canada, and your success in the job search will depend on your qualifications and salary expectations.

Online resources for job searching

Where to start looking for a job in Canada? Nowadays, there are many online resources that can help with this process.

• JobBank- a government website that contains about 100,000 job vacancies across the country.
• Workopolis- offers useful tools for job searching.
• Kijiji– the main job listing platform in Canada, featuring a wide range of employment opportunities.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you can confidently start exploring the Canadian job market!

Job search in Canada

Eluta is a popular job search service in Canada that does not require users to register or provide personal information. This project is managed by the "100 Best Employers" initiative and is focused exclusively on job postings that are submitted directly by employers.

Indeed is part of an international job search engine tailored for the Canadian market, where you can find a variety of job offers. Monster, possibly requiring the use of a VPN, is considered one of the oldest job search platforms in the USA and offers numerous vacancies from both large organizations and small businesses across Canada.

The Allstarjobs resource, which has been operating since 1999, is also among the popular options for job seekers, as it offers thousands of positions across various professions. Working (a VPN may be needed for use) aggregates job postings from Canadian print publications.

Russian-speaking resources

Among the available resources, it's worth mentioning several Russian-language platforms where job vacancies for professionals in various fields are posted. For example, websites like 24ruflagma and similar ones.

In addition, it will be effective to browse the classifieds sections of major Canadian newspapers, such as:

• Montreal Gazette
• Vancouver Sun
• National Post

As a rule, current job openings are published in the classifieds sections. If you don't want to spend time searching on your own, it makes sense to contact recruitment agencies like Randstad or use the services of Yellow Pages (YP).

Direct contact with employers

In some situations, it makes sense to directly contact the departments of the companies you are interested in to clarify what specialists they need and what requirements they have. Many employers prefer candidates with experience working in Canadian firms.

Volunteering could be a good idea in this situation: although there is no financial reward for such activities, you will have the opportunity to receive a certificate of your work location and duration upon completion.

Immigration and language requirements

When planning aspects related to immigration, investments, and real estate purchases, it is helpful to subscribe to specialized Telegram channels. When considering the conditions for foreign workers, it is important to highlight language proficiency as one of the key factors. The ability to communicate in the local language becomes essential, even if you are going to work under Russian-speaking employers, which may turn out to be unlikely.

Therefore, it makes sense to come to a country with a language level sufficient for daily communication.

Moving to Quebec

If your move is related to Quebec, it is important to know French, as it is the official language of the province. It is also important to realistically assess your educational and professional qualifications to understand whether they meet employers' expectations.

A clear understanding of one's abilities and skillsis a crucial step towards successful employment in Canada.

Labor shortage in Canada

Canada is experiencing a noticeable shortage of qualified specialists with a high level of professional experience. Although working outside your primary field may seem appealing, navigating this process becomes a challenging task, even for Canadian citizens themselves. Even on agricultural sites, employers are more inclined to hire specialized personnel rather than general workers, highlighting the importance of specific skills.

The role of education

Educationplays a key role in employment, and if your education is not validated by a diploma obtained from a Canadian, British, or European university, you will likely need to undergo the recognition procedure. This is especially relevant for professions that require mandatory certification, such as:

• engineer
• doctor
• architect
• geologist
• other specialized professions

A complete list of such professions can be found on a special website for immigrants.

Medical examination

Another important step towards obtainingwork visais the passagemedical examinationThis examination is usually conducted in accredited medical institutions that work with the International Organization for Migration, and there is a fee for this service. To undergo the medical examination, you must first contact the Canadian embassy for a referral, which is a special medical questionnaire.

After receiving the referral, you must undergo all necessary examinations within60 daysThe results of the examination are valid forone yearand are directed to the Canadian immigration medical center located in London. The wait for the results to be processed can take up tothree monthsAfter that, the High Commission of Canada makes a final decision and sends the information to the embassy.

Risks of illegal work

As for official employment,illegal workIn Canada, it is not a suitable option. The risks associated with such activities can include not only deportation but also a ban on re-entering the country. Most often, illegal employment is accompanied by extremely unattractive working conditions:

• Even if you manage to find a well-paying job, worker rights and social guarantees may not apply.
• Typically, earnings as a worker without special qualifications amount to aboutten dollars an hour, which is significantly lower than official salaries;
• For violations of labor legislation, both for employees and employers, significant fines are imposed, as well as the possibility of imprisonment for up toten years.

The first step on the path to immigration

If you want to assess your chances of moving to Canada and find out how to do it, you should take a special test on the government portal. This will allow you to see the most suitable immigration options for your situation and help you formulate a further action plan. It is important to note that the results of this test provide only approximate information.

Immigration programs

The most effective way to find a job in Canada is to participate in one ofimmigration programsworking within the systemExpress EntryThis program is designed to attract in-demand specialists from various fields and offers not only opportunities for long-term employment but also for those who want to relocate with their families and obtain citizenship.

Participation in this program significantly increases the chances of obtaining a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) for foreign workers, if such an assessment is required for applying for a specific job vacancy.

However, before starting the immigration process, it is crucial to focus on finding a suitable job and receiving an invitation from a potential employer. Since 2015, Canada has implemented the Express Entry program, which has become an important tool for quick employment. On one hand, this initiative complicates the process of finding an employer, but on the other hand, it opens up new opportunities for skilled professionals.

Preliminary stage of immigration

To participate in the program, you need to go through a preliminary selection process called express entry. This stage involves filling out a special form, the main purpose of which is to assess the candidate's compliance with the established requirements. Depending on your professional skills, level of education, language knowledge, and field of activity, you will be awarded certain points.

Chances of employment

Your chances of successful employment largely depend on your accumulated points. Periodic selections are conducted among candidates with the highest scores, giving them the opportunity to immigrate to Canada. Your information becomes accessible to all Canadian employers, which significantly eases their search for qualified workers. Candidate profiles are arranged in a specific order, helping employers more easily find the most suitable specialists.

Data verification

The data submitted to the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration Canada undergoes verification for six months. As a result, the information is stored in the Express Entry system for up to one year. It is also worth noting that the language test and credential assessment (if required) must be completed before submitting the application.

Immigration programs in Canada

Canada offers more than eighty different immigration programs, most of which are linked to the Express Entry system.

Immigrating to Canada requires compliance with a number of important regulatory requirements. First and foremost, the candidate must undergo a medical examination and provide a certificate confirming the absence of criminal convictions. It is also important to note that when participating in the national resettlement program, individuals wishing to migrate must exclude the possibility of moving to Quebec, as there is a separate immigration program for that province. Equally significant is having sufficient financial resources to ensure comfortable living conditions in the initial stages of life in the new country.

Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)

The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is aimed at highly skilled professionals, including doctors and engineers. Candidates must demonstrate at least two years of work experience in their field within the last five years, as well as have a job offer from a Canadian employer or a relevant certificate issued in Canada. Additionally, proficiency in one of the country's official languages is required.

Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) provides an opportunity for immigration to those who already have work experience in Canada. Applicants must demonstrate at least 12 months of paid work in the last three years. As with the previous program, a high level of language proficiency and no intention to move to Quebec must be demonstrated for successful selection.

Duties of employers

It is important to note that immigration rules require employers who invite foreign workers for long-term contracts to pay a one-time fee of $1,000 for processing applications. If the candidate is rejected, this amount is non-refundable. This approach emphasizes the Canadian authorities' commitment to prioritizing the employment of local residents before attracting foreign labor.

Employment in Canada

To get a job in Canada, the first step is to sign an employment contract with the employer. If the job requires membership in professional associations, such as medical or legal organizations, obtaining the appropriate license will be necessary. The next mandatory step is to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), which is initiated by the employer. They submit a request to the nearest office of the Ministry of Human Resources and Skills Development (HRSDC). A positive response allows for the issuance of a work permit in Canada.

Categories of specialists without LMIA

Some professions may qualify for employment without the need for an LMIA. A complete list of such positions is available on official websites. When the employer receives a positive decision from the ministry, they are required to gather the necessary documents and send them to the candidate for submission to the consulate in their country of residence.

• A copy of the letter from the ministry confirming the candidate's right to work in Canada;
• A detailed employment contract outlining the job description, responsibilities, required qualifications and education, duration of the agreement, salary amounts, social benefits, and information about the employer;
• Conditions of medical insurance provided by the employer.

Conclusion

Special attention should be paid to meeting all these requirements, as it is critical for successful immigration to Canada and obtaining a work permit. A careful approach to document preparation significantly reduces the risk of difficulties during the application process and increases the chances of successful integration into a new environment.

Types of work permits in Canada

In Canada, there are several categories of work permits that can be classified according to various criteria. The main types include temporary, permanent, as well as specialized permits for students and entrepreneurs. Additionally, there are unique types of permits designed for nannies or caregivers, as well as experience exchange programs.

Application for a work visa

If you intend to obtain a work visa for Canada, you need to use official government resources to apply.

To obtain a visa, you will need to gather a number of documents, including:

• work permit
• contract with the employer;
• invitation letter;
• filled-out questionnaire;
• certified copies of diplomas and certificates confirming your qualifications.

Depending on the nature of your work, you may need to obtainlicensesandletters of recommendationfrom previous employers.

Documents and requirements

The photographs must meet international standards. It is necessary to provide a foreign passport with a validity of at leastsix monthsfrom the moment of entry into the country. In some cases, you may also need:

• marriage certificate (if your spouse is not accompanying you);
• birth certificates of minor children;
• evidence of available funds, for example, a bank statement for the lastfour months;
• receipt for visa fee payment.

For Russian citizens, the visa fee in 2024 will be155 Canadian dollarsthat is approximately equal to114 US dollars.

Additional requirements for provinces

It should be noted that additional document requirements may be established for different provinces. For example, in Quebec, a certificate of consent for temporary work is required, which is issued by the local immigration ministry. All documents you submit for visa processing must be translated into English or French if they are originally written in another language.

The application approval process

After your application is approved, you will receive an invitation to take the test.biometricsand an invitation for an interview at one of the visa centers in Canada. It is important to follow all the instructions within30 daysbecause otherwise your application may be rejected.

During the registration process, it will also be issued.referral for a medical examinationBe prepared for the consul to call you in for a personal interview to provide additional clarifications.

Support for entrepreneurs in Canada

Canada actively supports entrepreneurial and innovative individuals. There are programs that allow startup founders to obtain permanent residency. This status remains valid even if the business fails for any reason, making Canada an attractive place for starting new ventures.

In-demand professions

It is worth noting that the Canadian government periodically updates the lists of the most in-demand professions, which include about370 different specialtiesThis information can be useful for those planning to immigrate to the country, as it provides a clear understanding of the professions and skills that may be in the highest demand in the job market.

Introduction

Explore the complete list of in-demand professions in Canada that are suitable for participation in the Express Entry program for skilled workers. This program offers numerous opportunities for immigrants looking to advance their careers in the country.

In-demand professions in the medical field

Among medical professionals, the following professions stand out:

• nurses
• general practitioners
• veterinarians
• cardiologists
• massage therapists
• laboratory assistants
• nutritionists
• dentists
• physiotherapists
• sanitary workers
• pharmacists

Specialties in engineering and construction

The field of engineering and construction offers a wide range of professions:

• mountain engineers
• plumbers
• geologists
• mechanics
• aerospace industry specialists
• oil workers
• industrial workers
• chemists
• electricians
• roofers
• stonemasons
• carpenters
• tilers
• welders
• plasterers
• architects

Additional professions

Among other professions that can be noted are:

• lawyers
• biologists
• oceanographers
• meteorologists
• managers of various fields
• equipment operators
• butchers
• cooks
• teachers
• physics
• financial specialists
• social workers
• programmers

The level of wages in Canada

As for income levels in Canada, according to official data for 2024, high-paying professions include:

• medical anesthesiologist— $392,000
• cardiologist— $387,000
• surgeon— $379,000
• psychiatrist— $334,000
• orthodontist— $269,000
• financial controller— $207,000
• cloud architect— $147,000
• software development manager— $143,000
• data specialist— $135,000
• corporate lawyer— $110,000

Minimum wage

The minimum wage in Canada is an important marker for the local economy and is reviewed annually based on the unemployment rate and various conditions. However, there is no single figure for the entire country: at the beginning of 2024, the minimum wage ranges from $10 to $14 per hour depending on the province. The highest rate is observed in the northern province of Nunavut, where it is around $14 per hour. If we take a 40-hour work week as a basis, Canadians can earn between $1,500 and $2,000 per month.

Average salary level

Average salaries in different Canadian provinces can vary significantly; however, the national average is about $1,055 per week, which is equivalent to $4,220 per month. Hourly rates can vary considerably depending on the following factors:

• age(after 25 years, rates can almost double)
• floor(men earn an average of $2 more per hour)
• working hours(for part-time employment, the rates are $3 lower)
• type of employment(permanent employees earn $4 more)

Conclusion

Canada really needs foreign specialists, which opens up wide opportunities for employment and living in this country. While preparing this material, I realized how important immigration is for the Canadian economy, where there is a stable demand forqualified personnelis a key factor in addressing demographic challenges. It is important to remember that every year about500 thousand new immigrantsbecoming part of Canadian society by contributing to various sectors.

When looking for a job in Canada, it's important to pay attention not only to large cities where the unemployment rate is below average but also to utilize a variety of resources, ranging from government platforms like Job Bank to international job search websites. All of this creates favorable conditions for employment and minimizes the effort spent on the search.

Important aspects for immigrants:

• Knowledge of the language— is one of the most serious requirements for immigrants.
• Without knowledge of the language, the chances of successful integration will be much lower.
• French languageIt's important, especially if you plan to live in Quebec.
• Don't forget about your real skills and work experience — these are your key assets in the Canadian job market.

In summary, Canada offers numerous opportunities for bothprofessional growth, as well as forpersonal developmentThe country is actively seeking qualified specialists, and if you are ready to dedicate yourself to mastering the language and improving your skills, the chances of successful immigration significantly increase. As we continue to explore the paths we can take towards a new life, it's worth remembering the endless inspiring story we can start writing for ourselves and our families in Canada.