One misconception a lot of people have about migrating to Canada is that you must be highly educated or possess a high-value skill for your visa application to be successful. While it is true that people with higher degrees and work experience in sought-after skills find it easy to get into Canada, the truth is just about anyone willing to work stands a high chance of being accepted.
Like many other first-world countries, the Canadian economy is facing serious challenges in terms of the availability of the required manpower to drive its various sectors and industries. The remnant effects of the COVID-19 pandemic and its aging population have further exacerbated the problem. To combat this, Canada is relaxing its immigration laws to help companies find the labor they need from other countries.
In 2023, the government announced that it would be opening its borders to receive up to 500,000 new migrants each year under its new immigration policy programs.
If you have always dreamed of working in Canada but do not have a college degree or possess a high-value skill, then pay close attention as I will be exploring all the many ways you can find employment in Canada without work experience.
Canadian Visa Pathways For Migrants Without Work Experience
There are several pathways to consider, such as certain Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that may not require work experience if you meet other eligibility criteria like educational credentials and language proficiency.
Additionally, the Federal Skilled Worker Program under Express Entry does have a minimum work experience requirement, but there are other factors like age, education, and language skills that can also contribute to your eligibility.
It’s important to research each program thoroughly to understand the specific requirements and to see which one aligns best with your situation. Consulting with an immigration expert or using resources provided by Canadian immigration services can also be helpful in navigating the process.
Below is a breakdown of the popular routes and their respective requirements:
1- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs):
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) are immigration initiatives specific to Canada’s provinces and territories. They allow these regions to nominate individuals for immigration who possess the skills and education needed to contribute to the local economy. Each province and territory has its own streams and requirements tailored to its economic and demographic needs.
There are two ways to apply for PNPs:
- Non-Express Entry Process: You apply directly to the province or territory for nomination under a non-Express Entry stream. If nominated, you then apply for permanent residence.
- Express Entry Process: You create an Express Entry profile and either apply for a nomination from a province or territory or accept a “notification of interest” from them. If nominated, you receive a certificate which you accept electronically, and then apply for permanent residence.
Several Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) in Canada may cater to individuals without work experience. These programs are designed to meet the specific needs of each province and can vary in their requirements. Here are some PNPs that might be suitable for workers without experience:
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): The SINP has an International Skilled Worker category, which includes the Occupation In-Demand sub-category that may not require a job offer.
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): The OINP’s Human Capital Priorities Stream selects candidates from the Express Entry pool that meet certain criteria, which may not always include work experience.
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): The NSNP has streams that target specific occupations or demographics and may not require work experience.
- Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP): The MPNP’s Skilled Worker Overseas Stream uses a points-based system to assess candidates, and while work experience can earn points, it is not a strict requirement.
It’s important to review the specific criteria for each PNP, as the requirements can change and may include other factors such as education, language proficiency, or connections to the province. Consulting with an immigration expert or visiting the official websites of these programs can provide the most current and detailed information.
2- Study Permits:
A study permit in Canada is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in the country. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada, and it’s important to have all the necessary documents before applying. You should apply for a study permit before you travel to Canada.
The study permit outlines the conditions of your stay, such as the institution you can attend, if you’re allowed to work in Canada, and how long you can stay. It’s different from a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which are documents that allow you to enter Canada. If your study permit application is approved, you’ll receive either a visa or an eTA along with your study permit, depending on which document you need for entry into Canada.
Migrants without work experience can apply for a study permit in Canada if they have been accepted by a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Here’s a general outline of the process:
- Acceptance by a DLI: Obtain a letter of acceptance from a Canadian institution that is recognized as a DLI.
- Proof of Financial Support: Demonstrate that you have enough money to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation.
- No Criminal Record: Provide police certificates to prove you don’t have a criminal record.
- Medical Exam: In some cases, you may need to undergo a medical exam.
- Application Submission: Apply online or at a visa application center with all required documents.
It’s important to note that while work experience is not a requirement for a study permit, other factors such as your proposed field of study and future career plans may be considered.
3- Family Sponsorship:
A Family Sponsorship Visa in Canada is part of the Family Class Sponsorship Program. It allows Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or registered Indians to sponsor eligible family members to immigrate to Canada and acquire permanent residency. The program aims to reunite families and is a significant pathway for family members to live, study, and work in Canada as permanent residents.
In certain situations, it may be possible to sponsor other relatives, such as siblings, nieces, or uncles, especially if there are no other immediate family members eligible for sponsorship.
To be a sponsor, one must meet several requirements, including being at least 18 years old, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and able to provide financial support for the basic needs of the sponsored person. The sponsorship agreement includes a commitment to support the family member financially for a specified period.
Jobs in Canada for Immigrants without work experience
For migrants in Canada without work experience, there are several job opportunities across various sectors. Some of the jobs that are often available include:
1- Caregiver: Assisting elderly or disabled individuals in their homes. While formal education is not mandatory, having relevant certifications can increase job prospects.
2- Dishwasher: Working in restaurants and cafeterias with minimal experience required. This role can be a stepping stone to other opportunities in the culinary industry.
3- Kitchen Helper: Assisting chefs and cooks in preparing and maintaining the kitchen area.
4- Retail Sales Associate: Working in stores, assisting customers, and managing inventory.
5- Customer Service Representative: Handling customer inquiries and providing service support.
6- Food Service Worker: Positions in fast-food restaurants or cafeterias, including cashier and food preparation roles¹.
7- Security Guard: Monitoring premises and ensuring safety, which may require a security license.
8- Delivery Driver: Delivering goods, which requires a valid driver’s license.
9- Warehouse Worker: Handling goods in storage facilities, including packing and shipping tasks.
10- Farm Worker: Agricultural jobs that may include planting, harvesting, and caring for livestock.
11- Cleaner: Providing cleaning services for residential or commercial properties.
12- Hotel Housekeeping: Cleaning and maintaining hotel rooms and common areas.
13- Construction Laborer: Assisting on construction sites, which may include lifting and basic tool use.
Conclusion
It is indeed possible to find a lot of jobs you can apply for as an immigrant without work experience seeking to move to Canada. These jobs often provide training on the job and can be a good starting point for building work experience in Canada.
Additionally, there are resources like the Canadian Job Bank and other job search sites where vacancies are advertised, targeting workers with little to no experience. It’s also beneficial to explore various immigration programs that Canada offers, which can open up opportunities for permanent residency and employment without the need for prior work experience.
