Temporary workers

Tips for landing a job in Canada from the United States: 10 guiding points

Anushka

January 21, 2025

Tips for landing a job in Canada from the United States

Key takeaways

Job Search Challenges: Landing a job in Canada from the United States can be challenging, as employers often prioritize local candidates, but U.S. citizens in LMIA-exempt occupations or those with in-demand work experience can improve their chances of securing a role.

Work Permits Are Essential: Simply having a job offer from a Canadian employer is not enough to work legally in Canada. You must apply for the appropriate work permit based on your offer or qualifications.

Canadian Experience Enhances PR Opportunities: Gaining Canadian work experience can boost your chances of qualifying for permanent residence, especially through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Work experience can add valuable CRS points and demonstrate your ability to contribute to the Canadian workforce.

Canada is a popular destination for U.S. citizens and temporary residents, thanks to its similar quality of life and numerous advantages such as abundant job opportunities, universal healthcare, cultural diversity, and inclusive immigration policies. Many Americans are drawn to Canada not only for these benefits but also for the chance to work in a thriving job market.

If you’re considering moving to Canada, securing a Canadian job offer can greatly enhance your eligibility for permanent residence (PR). This applies to a variety of U.S. residents, including those holding H1B visas, temporary workers, and international students, who may opt to work in Canada on a temporary work permit. Working in Canada allows them to broaden their global work experience, immerse themselves in a multicultural environment, and experience Canadian life before committing to a permanent move.

However, finding a job in Canada before arriving can be a time-consuming process. In this article, we’ll offer tips and practical advice on how to secure a job in Canada from the U.S.

Can U.S. Residents legally work in Canada?

As a U.S. citizen or temporary resident, you typically need either Canadian permanent residence, a work permit, or a study permit to be eligible to work in Canada. Working in Canada as a visitor is not allowed.

Working as a Permanent Resident in Canada

Many skilled professionals from the U.S. who have worked on H1B visas, studied in the U.S., or lived there for an extended period, choose to move to Canada and establish permanent residency. Once you become a permanent resident of Canada, you can work for any Canadian employer without restrictions.

If your PR status is approved while you’re still in the U.S., you can begin your job search, but you’ll only be able to start working after arriving in Canada and obtaining your Social Insurance Number (SIN).

Permanent residents of Canada can access the government’s Job Bank, which lists job openings, provides industry trends, and offers detailed occupation-specific information. If you are applying for permanent residency under certain immigration programs, you may qualify for a temporary work permit that allows you to work in Canada while your PR application is still being processed.

Working in Canada without PR

You don’t need to have permanent residency to work in Canada. Temporary residents, such as those with a work permit or an international student studying on a permit, can also work in Canada.

Getting a Canadian Work Permit

There are two main types of work permits in Canada: open work permits and employer-specific work permits.

Open Work Permit
An open work permit allows you to work for any eligible Canadian employer. However, open permits are typically granted under specific circumstances, such as for spouses or common-law partners of foreign workers in Canada, international students who have graduated from Canadian institutions and qualify for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP), or certain permanent residence applicants.

Employer-Specific Work Permit
An employer-specific work permit ties you to a particular employer in Canada. To qualify for this type of permit, you must have a Canadian job offer. Depending on your industry, the Canadian employer may need to obtain a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before hiring you. If you’re a U.S. citizen, you may be eligible for an LMIA-exempt employer-specific work permit under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA, formerly NAFTA) if you are:

  • Temporarily transferring to Canada as part of an intra-company transfer
  • A qualified investor or trader with significant business interests in Canada
  • In a profession listed under the USMCA and hold a Canadian job offer (examples include accountants, teachers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, and nurse).

Working in Canada as an international student on a Study Permit

As an international student in Canada, your study permit may allow you to work part-time while studying. Both on-campus and off-campus employment opportunities enable you to gain valuable Canadian work experience, which can enhance your resume and provide extra income. Upon completing a recognized study program, you may be eligible for an open Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to work full-time. The experience you accumulate during your studies or after graduation will strengthen your resume and may also help you meet the requirements for permanent residency in the future.

Tips for landing a job in Canada from the United States

How to get a job in Canada from the U.S.

Securing a job in Canada from outside the country can be a lengthy process, especially if you’re not fully prepared. Before you begin applying for positions, it’s essential to understand how the Canadian job market operates, what a Canadian-style resume entails, and which skills are currently in demand within your profession. Here are some key steps to help you get ready and improve your chances of landing a job in Canada from the U.S.

Understand the Canadian job market

While Canadian work culture shares similarities with the U.S., there are notable differences in the job market. It’s important to identify leading employers in your field in Canada and familiarize yourself with their hiring processes. Additionally, Canada has a significant “hidden job market,” where an estimated 65 to 80 percent of positions are filled through referrals rather than being advertised publicly. Networking and building connections can thus play a crucial role in your job search.

Identify in-demand skills in your industry

Even with years of experience in the U.S. or abroad, you might need to acquire additional skills to increase your chances of finding employment in Canada. Study relevant job postings to understand what skills Canadian employers are looking for and what qualifications are in high demand. This will help you identify any gaps in your skill set and allow you to upskill before applying for jobs.

Check for licensing requirements in Canada

Certain professions in Canada, such as those in healthcare, law, accounting, engineering, education, and architecture, are regulated. To work in these fields, you may need to be licensed or registered with the appropriate Canadian regulatory body. It’s advisable to research whether your profession is regulated and, if so, understand the licensing process well in advance of your move. Some licensing procedures can take months or even years to complete.

For regulated professions like accounting, if you’re already licensed in the U.S., you might qualify for a Canadian license through a Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) or be able to practice temporarily using your U.S. credentials. Contact the relevant Canadian provincial or territorial regulatory body to find out whether your U.S. qualifications will be recognized and what steps you need to take to work in Canada legally.

Create a Canadian-style resume and cover letter

In Canada, three primary resume formats are commonly used: reverse chronological, functional, and combination. The best format for your resume will depend on factors such as the length of your work experience, any employment gaps, and whether you’re transitioning into a new field. Adopting a Canadian-style resume demonstrates to employers that you’re familiar with the country’s job market.

Many Canadian employers use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to screen resumes and identify those that best match the job description. To improve your chances of being shortlisted for an interview, it’s crucial to tailor your resume for each specific job and incorporate relevant keywords. Rather than simply listing job responsibilities, focus on showcasing your accomplishments in each role. Additionally, even if a cover letter is not explicitly requested in the job posting, it’s advisable to include one to provide further context for your application.

Start building your network in Canada

Networking is a key aspect of Canada’s professional landscape and can significantly impact your job search. A large percentage of job openings in Canada are filled through referrals and networks, meaning that building your own network is essential. Your professional contacts can provide valuable insights into the local job market, in-demand skills, and the hiring practices of various employers.

Before you relocate to Canada, begin expanding your network by leveraging platforms like LinkedIn, engaging in virtual networking events, and participating in online professional discussions. Ensure your LinkedIn profile is optimized to reflect your job search goals. Consider connecting with experienced professionals who can mentor you as you begin your career in Canada.

Browse job portals to find suitable positions

Job portals such as Monster, Indeed, LinkedIn, GrabJobs, and Glassdoor are excellent resources for finding relevant job postings in Canada. If you’ve obtained approval for a work permit or permanent residency, you will also gain access to Canada’s government-run Job Bank, which lists job openings. Additionally, many job portals offer the option to sign up for job alerts, ensuring that you receive customized notifications of relevant job postings delivered directly to your inbox each week.

Register with recruitment agencies

Many Canadian companies partner with recruitment agencies like Robert Half, Randstad Canada, and Hays Canada to help them find suitable candidates. By registering with these agencies, you can submit your resume and be matched with job openings that align with your skills and experience. Recruitment agencies can help you identify potential opportunities and streamline the job search process.

Check the possibility of an intra-company transfer

If you’re employed by a U.S.-based or multinational company with operations in Canada, you may have the option to transfer within the company to a Canadian branch. If you’re in a senior role, inquire with your employer about the possibility of an intra-company transfer. While an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment) is not required for this type of transfer, you will need to apply for an employer-specific work permit. U.S. citizens are eligible for intra-company transfers under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) and can apply for a work permit directly at a Canadian port of entry.

In-demand jobs in Canada for Americans

Canada depends significantly on immigrants and foreign workers to fill gaps in skills across various sectors. Many provinces and territories publish lists of occupations that are in high demand, and being in one of these fields can make it easier to qualify for a work permit or permanent residency (PR), as well as help you secure a job in Canada from the U.S.

The manufacturing and construction sectors continue to offer numerous job opportunities, and the technology and information technology (IT) fields also have high demand for professionals like software engineers, AI specialists, developers, and web designers. The services industry is likewise seeking skilled workers, particularly in finance, human resources, marketing, sales, hospitality, and administration.

Healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurses, are also in high demand, but it’s important to note that these fields are regulated in Canada. To practice as a teacher, doctor, or nurse, you must obtain the appropriate provincial or territorial license.

Paperwork required to get a job in Canada from the United States

Once your application for a work permit, permanent residence (PR), or study permit is approved, you’ll need to gather additional documentation to start working in Canada. Here’s a list of documents you will likely need:

  • Proof of Work Authorization: To work legally in Canada, you must have a PR card, Confirmation of Permanent Residence (CoPR), work permit, or study permit.
  • Proof of U.S. Citizenship (for USMCA Applicants): If you’re applying for work in Canada under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), only U.S. or Mexican citizens qualify. You will need to provide proof of your U.S. citizenship, such as a U.S. passport, birth certificate, or certificate of citizenship.
  • Social Insurance Number (SIN): A SIN is necessary to work in Canada, regardless of whether you’re a temporary or permanent resident. You must obtain your SIN after arriving in Canada and provide it to your employer within three days of starting work.
  • Employment Reference Letters: Many Canadian employers require reference letters, including job offer letters, resignation letters, pay stubs, or tax returns to verify your previous work experience. It’s recommended to request these documents from your former employers before you arrive in Canada.
  • Educational Credentials Assessment (ECA): An ECA evaluates your foreign educational credentials, such as degrees or diplomas, to confirm that they meet Canadian standards. This is an important step for many immigration and job applications.
  • Identification Documents: Employers may also require a copy of your passport or other official identification to verify your identity when hiring you.
Tips for landing a job in Canada from the United States

How challenging is it to get a job in Canada from the U.S.?

Securing a job in Canada while still residing in another country can be a lengthy process. Canadian employers typically prefer candidates who are already in Canada and have the legal authorization to work there, as this streamlines and accelerates the hiring process. Employers are often seeking to fill immediate openings, and hiring someone already in Canada eliminates the complexities and time delays associated with international recruitment.

Additionally, many Canadian employers are required to obtain a positive Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from the government before hiring a foreign national. This procedure is time-consuming because the employer must demonstrate that they made efforts to recruit locally, but were unable to find suitable candidates within Canada.

However, if you are a U.S. citizen in an occupation that is LMIA-exempt under the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA), Canadian employers do not need an LMIA to hire you. Professions like accountants, engineers, architects, social workers, lawyers, graphic designers, and more fall under the LMIA-exempt category, making it easier for U.S. citizens in these fields to get hired.

If you are not a U.S. citizen or work in a non-LMIA-exempt role, your chances of securing a job in Canada from the U.S. will improve if you are in an in-demand profession. It’s also worthwhile to assess your eligibility for permanent residence (PR), as obtaining PR status can greatly enhance your prospects of finding a job in Canada. Depending on the immigration pathway you are pursuing, you may also be eligible for a work permit while your PR application is being processed.

Can I legally work in Canada with a job offer?

Simply having a job offer in Canada does not grant you the legal right to work there; you must also secure a work permit.

Once you receive a job offer from a Canadian employer, you must apply for an employer-specific work permit. If your employer needs to obtain an LMIA to hire a foreign worker, they must first complete this process before they can officially extend a job offer to you.

Alternatively, if you have an open work permit, you do not require a job offer to work in Canada. Open work permits allow you to enter Canada and seek employment without being tied to a specific employer. Canadian employers do not need an LMIA to hire individuals with open work permits or employer-specific work permits under the USMCA.

Will a job offer from Canada make me eligible for Permanent Residency?

A job offer from a Canadian employer does not automatically grant you eligibility for permanent residence (PR) in Canada. However, having Canadian work experience can significantly improve your chances when applying for PR later on.

For example, you may earn up to 80 additional Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points on your Express Entry profile, depending on the length of your work experience in Canada. If you’ve worked in Canada for at least one year, you may also be eligible to apply for PR through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program.

As a U.S. resident, gaining work experience in Canada can enhance your resume with global experience and open doors to various job opportunities in demand within the Canadian job market. If you’ve been living in the U.S. on a study or work visa, securing employment in Canada can also increase your likelihood of qualifying for Canadian PR, facilitating your transition to permanent residency. While finding a job in Canada from abroad may not be easy, with careful planning and preparation, you can successfully secure your ideal role in Canada from the U.S.

Conclusion

Securing a job in Canada from the U.S. presents both challenges and opportunities. While employers often prefer hiring local talent, there are pathways for foreign nationals to find employment in Canada. U.S. citizens in specific professions and individuals with a strong understanding of the Canadian job market can significantly increase their chances of success. By preparing in advance—researching job requirements, tailoring resumes, and building a network—American job seekers can maximize their chances of landing a role in Canada. With the right strategy, experience, and persistence, it’s entirely possible to make the move and thrive professionally in Canada.


Anushka

Senior Marketing Manager, Beacon