Can A U.S Citizen Work In Canada? Yes, See How

Canada is a land of opportunities, a beautiful environment, and wonderful people. Canada is perceived as open and friendly toward people who want to migrate to the country.

Despite how easy it might be to migrate to Canada, getting a job as a foreigner might not be easy as it seems. It might be a hard stone to crack unless you get the password.

The question on the minds of many US citizens is “Can I work in Canada as a US citizen”? You will get the answer to your question in this article.

Not only that, but you’ll also get additional information to help you make your stay in Canada worth it. Make sure you’re ready to learn because this article will answer most of the questions you have as a U.S citizen that wants to work in Canada.

Can a U.S Citizen Work In Canada?

Yes, U.S citizens can work in Canada but they are required to apply for a work visa or a work permit. If you are a US citizen that’s going to Canada for business purposes, you can only stay in the country for 6 months without a work permit.

But if you want to stay longer than 6 months, be sure to get your work permit.

How to get jobs in Canada as a U.S Citizen 

Search for jobs

There are many ways to look for jobs in Canada. Some of them include researching the companies you’d like to work for. Check for the job openings on their website and find a contact to inquire if they are hiring at that moment.

Get the links to websites that post jobs every day or weekly and check for anyone you’re eligible to do. Go to job fairs in the city or town you are located, network with employers, and discuss job opportunities with them.

Speak to friends or acquaintances and ask if they’re job openings where they work. Most times, the job you want won’t come and find you, you have to go looking for it.

Finding work in Canada as a U.S citizen might be hard and might be easy, it all depends on how patient and open you are about it.

Apply for Jobs

It’s impossible to see a job you’re interested in and expect to get it without applying. After finding work you know you can do, the next thing on your list is applying.

Before applying for any job in Canada, make sure you meet all the requirements stated(If there are any). After checking that you meet all requirements, the next thing on the list is to try your possible best to make your application stand out.

Your Resume, portfolio, and every other necessary document should show that you’re an expert and the perfect person for the job. Once you find a job you’re interested in, you’ll might be asked to send your:

1. Cover letter – short description of what makes you right for the job.
2. Résumé – also known as a “curriculum vitae” or a C.V. It is a list of your qualifications and work experience.
3. Portfolio – Samples of works you’ve done related to the field you’re applying for.

Go for your interview

If your employer is satisfied with whatever documents you have submitted, you will be asked to attend an interview and that will be the key factor determining if you will be hired or not.

Remember to know a bit about the company you applied to and be confident about your skills. Dress well too, it’s important!

What are the eligibility requirements to get a work permit?

Most foreigners require a permit to be eligible to work in Canada.

Candidates who qualify to apply for a work permit must also meet the following eligibility requirements:

1. Demonstrate their intent to leave once their work authorization expires.
2. Proving they have sufficient funds to support them in Canada and to return home.
3. Have no criminal records.
4. Plan to work with an eligible employer.
5. Can provide any requested documents that may prove their eligibility to enter Canada.

How do I get work experience or training?

To get work experience, apply to the Federal Internship for Newcomers Program

The Federal Internship for Newcomers (FIN) Program provides eligible residents and new Canadians with tangible temporary Canadian work experience and training.

How to obtain a Canadian work permit.

The process of having a Canadian work permit depends on the type of permit you’re applying for. If you’re a student, you’re automatically granted a work permit to work part-time.

Some permits require that you have an official job offer from a Canadian employer and should be supported by a Labour Market Impact Assessment.

There are two popular ways for obtaining a Canadian work permit: A Closed (restricted) work permit and an Open work permit.

Closed work permits are attached to certain employers, this means that when you are issued a closed work permit you must remain working with the same employer at the same location unless you change your work permit.

While an open work permit can grant you access to work with any employer of your choice.

How much does a Canadian work permit cost?

The processing fee for a closed work permit costs CAD 155 per person and CAD 255 per person for an open work permit. If you are renewing a work permit or applying as a group, additional fees will apply.

What documents do I need to apply for a Canadian work permit?

The documents you will need for a Canadian work permit will depend on the type of work permit you are applying for. Applicants may need to provide the following documents as part of their work permit application:

• Completed application forms
• Proof of status in Canada (if applicable)
• Family member’s proof of status (if applicable)
• Labour Market Impact Assessment (if applicable)
• A written offer of employment (if applicable)
• CV/ résumé
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Proof that you meet the job requirements
• A valid copy of your passport
• Copy of education credential
• Medical exam results (if requested)
• Evidence of financial means to stay in Canada and return to home country
• Proof of payment for applicable government fees
• Recent passport-sized photos

FAQ

How long will it take to process my work permit application?

The processing time for a work permit application depends on the type of work permit you’re going for, your country of residence, and the time of application. The processing time range will take a few weeks to several months.

What’s the age limit for a U.S citizen to obtain a Canadian work permit?

A U.S city must be at least 18 years of age to obtain a Canadian work permit. There is no maximum age for work permit applicants unless applying under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program.

How long is a Canadian work permit valid for a U.S citizen?

Canadian work permits are valid for a period of 1-2 years, with some exceptions. A visa officer will usually not issue a work permit for longer than the validity of an applicant’s passport.

A work permit will not be issued for longer than you have applied to stay in Canada.

Can I work in Canada with a U.S. Green Card?

No, having a US Green card with a Canadian work permit doesn’t grant you entitlement to work in Canada.

How hard is it to get a work visa for Canada?

It’s hard but it isn’t impossible. As a U.S citizen, if you have a valid job offer from a Canadian employer, you should be able to present all documents proving that you are desired for the position.

This might boost your chances of getting a work visa. Being a skilled worker increases your chances of obtaining a Canadian work visa.

Conclusion

Now that you know that you can work in Canada as a U.S citizen, now is the time to start your application process.

If you need assistance with your work permit, you can contact a law firm to help you out. Please note that a permit is different from a visa.

A visa grants you access to a country while a work permit gives you the chance to work there.