For most newcomers, immigration is only the first step toward settling in Canada. Proper acclimatization requires a stable job or a source of income for self-reliance. Programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class and Federal Skilled Trades Program require the candidates to have valid Canadian job offers for this very reason.
However, many other immigration programs do not have this prerequisite. Newcomers arrive without a guaranteed position or job with a Canadian employer and have to assimilate into the Canadian work culture and search for jobs the conventional way. The Canadian government provides resources to help them access job markets- mainly through job portals like the Job bank.
We look at the situation surrounding newcomers searching for a job with information and steps to help them nail down that first job in Canada.
What is a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?
A Social Insurance Number is the first crucial document required of an employee in Canada.
It is a unique 9-digit number that indicates that the holder is authorized to work in Canada. It allows them to access government programs and benefits like the following:
- Income Tax Act
- Canada Pension Plan Act and
- Employment Insurance Act
Who is eligible for a SIN?
A SIN number is mandatory for the following classes of people in Canada:
- Canadian citizens
- Permanent resident
- Temporary resident- The SIN for Temporary residents is denoted by a SIN number starting with “9”.
How to apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN)?
Interested parties may apply for a SIN number online at the Canadian government’s website. The portal has a step-by-step process that allows applicants to identify their status (Canadian citizen, permanent resident, temporary resident) and the documents required to apply.
The portal offers three application options- online, by mail or in-person.
What documents will a temporary resident require to apply for a SIN number?
This is the case with many people who work in Canada for work experience before they eventually apply for Permanent Residency. Such Temporary residents require:
- An Identity document:
- Work permit issued by IRCC or CIC
- Study permit issued by the IRCC or CIC
- A visitor record issued by the IRCC or CIC
- A diplomatic ID card or work authorization issued by the Dept. of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development.
- A secondary document with the applicant’s legal name and Date of Birth.
- A Passport
- A Canadian provincial ID or driver’s license
- A Canadian government-issued ID
- A Proof of Address issued by one of the following:
- Government, employer, organization, a landlord.
- A supporting document if you’ve had a recent name change (certificate of marriage, divorce decree, legal change of name certificate etc.).
What documents will a Permanent Resident require to apply for a SIN number?
A permanent resident requires the following documents to apply for a SIN number:
- A Primary ID document that can be:
- A Permanent Resident card issued by the IRCC or CIC
- A Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) issued by the IRCC, if the applicant is yet to receive a Permanent Resident card.
- A Record of Landing.
- A Secondary document with the applicant’s legal name and date of birth.
- A passport
- A Canadian provincial ID or driver’s license
- Other Canadian govt. Issued ID.
- A Proof of address that corroborates the address provided in the SIN application
Where to search for jobs in Canada?
You can start with a quick search on job sites and directories. There are plenty of options, each with its unique advantages. We attempt to list some of the most popular ones below.
- Indeed was founded in 2004 and is a staple for jobs and career searches worldwide. Its website boasts over 250 million unique monthly visitors, 225 million resumes and over 700 million ratings and reviews. It is an effective tool to advertise your resume and apply to the thousands of jobs advertised daily.
- LinkedIn is another popular site that allows you to network with potential employers, businesses and clients. The platform meshes the interactivity of conventional social media with a professional outlook. It was the 21st most visited website as of August 2022 and had over 20 million Canadian users in June 2022.
- AngelList is a job search website that emphasizes Tech-jobs for startups and tech companies. According to its website, AngelList has over 130k+ Tech jobs and 8 million Startup-ready candidates.
- Glassdoor is a website that helps users with information about their jobs and companies. It gives access to vital information on salaries, interview questions and peer reviews so the user can make informed career decisions. Glassdoor has over 59 million unique monthly visitors and 114 million reviews, salaries and insights.
What is Canada’s Job bank?
The Job Bank is a service that helps all Canadian residents search and apply for available jobs. The website was launched in 1996 and run by Employment and Social Development Canada on behalf of the Canada Employment Insurance Commission.
According to the website, Job Bank advertises up to 84,000 jobs per month, has 200,000 Registered employees and over 8.2 million views on its job postings per month.
Who is eligible for a Job Bank Account?
Job Bank provides users with two account types– a Standard account and a Plus account. The Plus account allows users to get matched to jobs, submit applications directly to the Job Bank and lets employers invite them to apply.
The Standard account is available to any user with an email account.
The Plus account requires the user to be one of the following:
- A Canadian citizen
- A Permanent resident of Canada
- An Express Entry candidate
A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required to create a Plus Account on the Job Bank, while the standard account requires only a valid email address.
Candidates for the Express Entry program (without a SIN) can also create a Plus Account with their Express Entry number and Job Seeker validation code issued by the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
How to create a Job Bank Account?
Once a user agrees to the conditions, the Job Bank requires them to fill up user credentials, security and authentication measures before creating an account.
How to excel in the Canadian job market?
Many factors can help a Newcomer excel in the Canadian job market. The basics include proficiency with either English or French, Good interview skills, confidence, a good resume and networking skills.
Job searches are not restricted to Canadian platforms like the Job Bank. Many job search websites and social platforms allow you to network with potential employers and better understand your industry.
The principles of job-hunting in any other country apply here. An excellent first impression, etiquette, social skills, professionalism and knowledge, can go a long way in securing that first job in Canada.
Where can I find Newcomer services?
As a newcomer, figuring everything out on your own can get tricky. Luckily, there are many organizations that help immigrants take their first baby steps in the Canadian job market.
The Canadian government has a directory of free Newcomer services on its website.
These services can help you with:
- Job searches
- Language assessments
- Registering for Language Classes
- Finding a place to live
- Finding a school for your child
- Providing community services.
The information provided above should prepare you for the basics of job hunting as a newcomer in Canada. We understand that there are more situations and hoops you’ll have to jump through in the process. We encourage you to share your perspective on these experiences and contribute to our community of passionate immigrants and well-wishers.
