Providing proof of eligibility for a job in Canada

With the Canadian economy beginning to rebound post-COVID, Canada still faces challenges filling key roles within its job market. An aging population and persistently low birth rate mean that there simply aren’t enough people in Canada who possess the necessary knowledge and skills to drive the economy forward.

Many of Canada’s immigration programs are geared towards the recruitment of fresh new talent from abroad who are interested in bringing their expertise to Canada to fill the gaps. 

If you are a skilled worker who is interested in making the move to Canada, now could be the ideal time. However, before you book your plane ticket you should ensure that you can provide adequate proof that your skills match the requirements of the job you are applying for. 

How do you prove you meet the requirements for a Canadian job?

If you’ve received a job offer from a Canadian employer, congratulations! This is a crucial step in your immigration journey, and one that many struggle to achieve. 

However, you should know that receiving the offer does not guarantee you will be able to secure a work permit. First, you must demonstrate that your skills and education are aligned with the demands of the job, and that you are the best person to fill this role. 

This proof will come in the form of two documents:

1. 
   1. A reference letter:

   This is the most important piece of evidence to include in your application, as it demonstrates your capabilities and prior experiences as a skilled professional. The letter should be written by your current or most recent employer with the same National Occupation Code (NOC) as the job to which you are applying. The letter should highlight your aptitudes within your chosen field. You can find more specific information by checking the specific unit group relating to your profession, and the main duties that you are expected to perform on the job. 
2.  

3. 2. Records of education or training:

4. The second document you may need to provide, depending on the occupation requirements, as proof of your eligibility for employment is a record of your education or professional training in your field. For example, if you are a tradesperson, you would need to demonstrate that you have obtained your high school diploma and that you went on to complete a technical training program where you learned the necessary skills to perform your job.

We advise all our clients to have these documents ready when they begin the application process. The documents you will need to provide can vary widely from one occupation to the next, so it’s important to understand what exactly is required of you.

Remember that the immigration process is time-sensitive, meaning that if you do not provide the required documentation within a set time frame, you could set back the entire application process, and delay your arrival to Canada. 

At Desjardins Lawyers, we have assisted many clients through this application process and thus have a broad understanding of what is typically required when submitting an application for a work permit to Canadian immigration. If you have any concerns, we would be happy to assist you. Working with a qualified immigration lawyer can ease the stress of the application process, and ensure that your portfolio is as strong as possible. As immigration becomes increasingly competitive, having this kind of advantage can mean the difference between starting a new life in Canada or remaining in your home country.