If your spouse is qualified and wants to work in Canada, they can be eligible for a work permit. It can allow them to contribute to the household income, get professional experience, and develop a network of connections.
It’s important to note that they can apply for an open work visa when their application for permanent residence is complete, and they must wait for their work permit application to be accepted before they begin working. They can also acquire an employer-specific work permit without being on spousal sponsorship by simply getting a job offer from a Canadian company.
Here are some things you should know.
Working in Canada
Canada’s job market is thriving with the addition of new jobs and a steady unemployment rate. There are numerous opportunities, with a booming market for those seeking employment and professional advancement.
If your spouse wants to work in Canada, they should know the types of work permits available. Let’s look at the two most relevant ones: open work permits and employer-specific work permits.
Open Work Permit
Having an open work permit has various benefits. You are not committed to a certain company and can enjoy flexibility. It means you may work for any qualifying business in Canada, allowing you to explore numerous employment options and industries.
To apply, you must determine your eligibility. You must collect the necessary paperwork, which includes verification of eligibility, supporting documents, and any other information unique to your category. To ensure you have all the essential papers, carefully study the document checklist given by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
After completing your application, you must send it to IRCC with the required fee. You can hire an immigration lawyer to help you with the process.
Employer-Specific Work Permit
When you get a job offer from a specific employer in Canada, an employer-specific work visa permits you to work for that firm only.
It gives you job security because you have fixed employment with a single company. It also enables you to concentrate on professional growth and gain experience in your field of competence. Furthermore, some employer-specific work permits may give prospects for permanent residency in Canada, paving the road for you to make Canada your permanent home.
The application process starts with the company acquiring an LMIA (Labour Market Impact Assessment), which evaluates the impact of recruiting a foreign worker on the Canadian labour market. You will get the essential documents, including the employment offer, evidence of qualifications, and the LMIA (if applicable), after the employer has secured the LMIA or a valid LMIA exemption.
Then, you will submit your work permit application to IRCC with all relevant documents and fees—and then the waiting game begins.
Benefits of Working in Canada
Here are some benefits of working in Canada for your spouse.
Healthcare Program
Your spouse can access the country’s universal healthcare services by getting a work permit in Canada. All Canadian citizens, including employees, are entitled to essential healthcare services under this system, ensuring access to medical treatment without financial obstacles.
Legislated Employee Benefits
Canada has strong labour regulations that safeguard employees’ rights. Vacation pay, paid holidays, sick leave, maternity and parental leave, and compassionate care leave are all legal employee perks. These perks are legally required and differ based on the province or area of employment.
Low Cost of Living
In comparison to many other wealthy countries, Canada has a comparatively low cost of living. While living prices vary by location, housing, transportation, education, and everyday expenses are generally less expensive than in nations such as the United States or the United Kingdom. This increase in income can help you and your spouse enjoy a good lifestyle.
Job Security
The Employment Insurance (EI) program in Canada offers critical assistance to employees during periods of unemployment. Employees who have contributed to the EI program are entitled to financial compensation if they leave their job or have their working hours reduced. In times of economic instability, this safety net assists individuals in meeting their fundamental necessities and provides a sense of security.
Social Security Benefits
Employees in Canada are entitled to a variety of social security benefits in addition to employment insurance. Old-age security, the Canada Pension Plan (CPP), and the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) are some of them. These initiatives can give financial assistance to retirees to provide a dignified and secure retirement.
Fair Wage & Overtime Pay
To guarantee that employees are fairly compensated, Canada has implemented minimum wage legislation. The minimum wage is decided by each province and territory, considering factors such as the cost of living. Furthermore, employees who work longer than the regular hours are also entitled to overtime pay.
Challenges of Working in Canada
Your spouse may face these common challenges.
Language Barrier
Finding work in Canada can become difficult if your spouse does not speak English or French. Effective workplace communication is critical for comprehending instructions, cooperating with coworkers, and developing professional connections. It might take them time and effort to adjust to a new language.
However, language learning tools and programs can help them improve their language abilities and overcome this problem.
Lack of Canadian Experience
Many newcomers encounter the challenge of not having prior employment experience in Canada. Canadian employers generally value local job experience since it indicates an awareness of Canadian workplace culture, customs, and practices. Individuals without Canadian experience may struggle to get work in their preferred sector.
Networking, volunteering, and internships can give opportunities to obtain Canadian experience, improve skills, and establish a professional network.
Credentials
Individuals who received university degrees or professional certifications outside of Canada may have difficulty getting their qualifications recognized. Regulatory authorities and professional organizations frequently have unique certification or licensure standards that differ from nation to country.
Your spouse does not need to study again; they can consult an evaluation agencies that may help them with this problem and provide directions.
Getting Used to the Cold Weather
Canada is notorious for its chilly environment, and adapting to it may be difficult, especially for those coming from warmer climes. Extreme low temperatures, snow, and lengthy winters can disrupt everyday living and need changes in clothing, transportation, and overall well-being. If your spouse plans to work in Canada, give them a heads-up to pack a lot of winter clothes.
Finding Work in Canada
Finding work in Canada will be difficult, especially if you’re applying from your home country. Here are some things to try.
Do Your Research
Conduct an extensive analysis of the Canadian employment market, industry trends, and career prospects before beginning your job search. Learn about the in-demand skills and credentials and any special certifications or licenses necessary for your sector. Find prospective employers, run a company check, learn about their values and work culture and customize your applications accordingly.
Networking with Professionals
Networking is a key resource for Canadian job searchers. Building ties and connections with specialists in your sector may generate insights, employment leads, and prospective recommendations. Attend virtual industry events, join professional groups, and participate in in-person and online networking activities.
Apply for Internships
Interning and volunteering for Canadian companies can help you get Canadian job experience, industry-specific skills, and career contacts. Many firms in Canada offer internship programs, particularly in technology, finance, and engineering. These can give you essential hands-on experience, help you build your résumé, and lead to full-time work prospects. You can also research internship programs offered by the government and educational institutions.
Join Networking Platforms
Consider joining online networking platforms or job boards that link job seekers with employers in addition to traditional networking events. Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor allow you to highlight your talents and expertise, interact with companies, and apply for job vacancies.
Participate in discussions, contribute industry ideas, and join relevant groups to boost your exposure and chances of getting recognized by future employers.
Update Your Resume
Personalize your CV and cover letter to each job application, emphasizing your relevant abilities and experiences. Be proactive when following up on job applications and attending interviews.
Hire Immigration Lawyers From Nanda & Associate Lawyers
If you’re looking for an immigration lawyer for spousal sponsorship in Canada, you’ve come to the right place! Our immigration lawyers can help with all family sponsorship and immigration cases.
We specialize in offering complete legal aid suited to your specific circumstances, thanks to our extensive understanding of Canadian immigration rules and regulations. We can handle your case professionally, whether you are seeking permanent residency, applying for an open work visa or study permit, or citizenship.
Our immigration lawyers will carefully examine your case, determine your eligibility, and provide tailored consultation according to the current immigration regulations and processes, ensuring that your application is correct, comprehensive, and timely submitted.
Interested in moving to Canada to live or work? Book a consultation with our immigration lawyers now.
Disclaimer: Please note that this blog is intended for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for legal advice.
