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Work

Finding work in Canada

A first Canadian job often comes through people you meet. Use official job boards, free employment programs and every connection you have.

Where to find jobs

  • Job Bank, the Government of Canada's free job board
  • Free employment programs at settlement agencies, including mentoring and job fairs
  • Networking: tell friends, neighbours and community groups what work you want
  • Volunteering, which builds Canadian experience and references

A Canadian-style résumé

  • Keep it to one or two pages
  • Leave out your photo, age, marital status and religion
  • Show results with numbers where you can
  • Write a short cover letter for each job

Licensed professions

  • Doctors, nurses, engineers, teachers and many trades need a licence from a provincial regulator
  • Start the licensing process early, even before you arrive
  • You may need your education assessed
  • While you work toward your licence, look for related jobs in your field

Your rights at work

  • Each province sets its own minimum wage and work rules
  • You should get a pay stub that shows your hours and deductions
  • You can refuse work that is unsafe
  • An employer cannot make you pay to get a job

Official sources

Reviewed November 2026. Rules change, so confirm details on official websites.