Work in Canada in 2025: a detailed guide for foreigners
Table of contents
- Types of Canadian work visas
-
How to get a Canadian work visa?
- Step 1 – Select the required visa category
- Step 2 – Get a job offer
- Stage 3 – Prepare the required package of documents
- Step 4 – Create an online profile (if necessary)
- Step 5 – Submit an application
- Step 6 – Pass a medical examination and submit biometric data
- Step 7 – Wait for the application to be processed
- Step 8 – Get approved
- Stage 9 – Arrival in Canada
- In which cities do expats work in Canada?
- What jobs do foreigners work in Canada?
- Where to look for a job in Canada?
- Average salary in Canada

Canada remains a popular destination for employment of foreigners in 2025. Find out what types of work visas exist in Canada, the requirements for obtaining each type of visa, which cities and industries are most attractive for foreign specialists, where to look for work and much more useful information
Canada continues to be one of the most desirable destinations for workers from around the world, including citizens of Turkmenistan, Cuba and Tajikistan, as it offers a high quality of life, diverse career opportunities and a welcoming atmosphere for immigrants. In 2025, the Canadian job market remains stable, and various sectors are actively looking for qualified specialists, entrepreneurs and temporary workers.
How to find a job in Canada in 2025? A detailed guide for expats further.
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Types of Canadian work visas
To work in Canada, most foreign nationals need a work visa. Canada offers a variety of work visa options, depending on the expat's specific circumstances and goals. Whether you are a skilled worker, an entrepreneur, or a professional transferred to a company, there is a specific category of work visa that suits your requirements:
- Temporary Work Permits (TWP)
A temporary work permit allows foreigners to work in Canada for a specific period. They can be individual, meaning that they only allow you to work for a specific employer, or open, which gives you the right to work for any employer in Canada.
Unlike an employer-specific work permit, an open work permit allows you to work for any employer in Canada. It is usually granted under certain conditions, such as for spouses of skilled workers or international students, or for humanitarian reasons.
Visa Requirements:To obtain this type of permit, an expat is usually required to have an offer of employment from a Canadian employer, which must include information about your position, salary, length of employment, and location in Canada.
In addition, employers may require a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC), which demonstrates that hiring an employee from another country will not have a negative impact on the Canadian labor market.
The decisive factors in obtaining the permit are compliance with the requirements of the LMIA, having the necessary qualifications and demonstrating an intention to return to the country of your citizenship.
- Express entry program
The Express Entry system is a streamlined pathway for skilled workers seeking to become permanent residents of Canada. She evaluates candidates based on factors such as age, education, work experience, language skills and adaptability. The Express Entry program is closely related to the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), the Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CSC).
Visa requirements: The main criteria of the Express Entry program: age, education level, work experience, knowledge of English or French, as well as the ability to adapt.
- Provincial Nominal Program (PNP)
The PNP allows Canadian provinces and territories to hire workers from abroad with skills and experience that match their specific economic needs. Each province has its own PNP criteria.
Visa Requirements: PNP requirements vary depending on the province or territory you are applying to. As a general rule, you need a job offer from an employer in your chosen province, as well as relevant work experience and educational qualifications. In addition, you must demonstrate your intention to settle in the province that accepts you for work.
- Visa for transfer within an international company
This visa category allows employees of international companies that have offices in Canada and abroad to be transferred within the corporation. Such permission makes it easier for employees to move. Visas can be temporary or long-term.
Visa Requirements:An intra-company transfer requires a valid job offer from the Canadian office of an international company, and you must have previously worked for that corporation for a certain period of time. Additionally, you need to demonstrate the importance of your role to the Canadian office.
- Talent visa
The talent visa was created to attract highly qualified workers and technical specialists. The permit expedites the work visa process for Canadian employers looking for the world's best talent. The Global Skills Strategy program is divided into two streams: Category A for workers with a job offer and Category B for employers looking for specialized talent.
Visa requirements:the expat must have a job offer in a profession that is categorized as A or B.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Graduates from eligible Canadian post-secondary institutions can apply for a PGWP. This permit allows them to work for any employer in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of their program of study.
How to get a Canadian work visa?
Step 1 – Select the required visa category
At the first stage, assess your right to receive different categories of visas. This is influenced by factors such as the availability of a job offer, skills, education and work experience.
Step 2 – Get a job offer
Get an offer from a Canadian employer. This document should contain information about your role, responsibilities, salary and duration of work.
Stage 3 – Prepare the required package of documents
Gather all the necessary documents: passport, certificates of education, language proficiency test results (such as IELTS or CELPIP), LMIA documents or provincial appointment and qualification documents, etc.
Step 4 – Create an online profile (if necessary)
If you are applying through Express Entry or another online platform, create a profile with accurate information about your skills, education, work experience and language skills.
Step 5 – Submit an application
Complete and submit your application through the appropriate online portal, such as the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Pay the required application fees and ensure that all information is entered correctly.
Step 6 – Pass a medical examination and submit biometric data
If required, provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph) at the designated center. Also, get a medical exam from an approved doctor to make sure you meet the health requirements.
Step 7 – Wait for the application to be processed
The processing time depends on the visa category, the country of origin and the number of applications. Be patient and monitor the progress of your application through the online portal.
Step 8 – Get approved
Once approved, you will receive an Entry Procedure Letter (ROE). This letter contains instructions on what to do next, including how to cross the border into Canada.
Stage 9 – Arrival in Canada
Upon arrival, present your ROE letter, passport and other necessary documents to the Canadian border guards. You may also be asked to answer questions about the purpose of your visit and provide biometric information.
In which cities do expats work in Canada?
Canada has several major cities that are attracting foreign workers due to their economic growth, job opportunities, and multicultural environment. The following cities are popular among expats in 2025:
- Toronto
As Canada’s largest city and economic hub, Toronto offers numerous job opportunities in the finance, technology, healthcare, and education sectors. It is home to many international corporations, financial institutions, and tech startups.
- Vancouver
Known for its natural beauty and vibrant tech sector, Vancouver is a hot spot for expats, especially those working in technology, film and media, tourism, and the green economy.
- Montreal
Montreal offers a unique blend of European charm and North American innovation. It is a growing hub for technology, aerospace, and design, and the demand for bilingual workers (French and English) remains high.
- Calgary
Calgary is the heart of Canada's oil and gas industry, making it an attractive city for professionals in the energy and engineering sectors. It is also a center for finance, real estate, and construction.
- Ottawa
As the capital of Canada, Ottawa is home to many government jobs, as well as opportunities in technology, healthcare, and education. It is also known as a family-friendly city.
- Edmonton
Edmonton is known for its thriving government sector and healthcare services. The city is also a key player in energy production and has a growing technology and innovation sector.
What jobs do foreigners work in Canada?
In 2025, Canada will continue to see a demand for skilled professionals in various fields. Some of the most popular positions include:
- Software Engineers and Developers
With the rapid growth of the technology sector, Canada has a high demand for software engineers, web developers, and IT professionals.
- Healthcare Professionals
Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and medical technicians are always in demand in Canada, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic and an aging population.
- Skilled Trades Workers
Electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and welders are in high demand, especially in cities like Calgary, Edmonton, and Toronto, where infrastructure and housing construction are booming.
- Business Analysts and Managers
Companies are looking for professionals who can help streamline operations, lead teams, and develop business strategies in sectors like finance, healthcare, and technology.
- Financial Analysts and Accountants
As Canada's financial sector continues to grow, professionals with experience in accounting, auditing, and financial analysis are in high demand.
- Engineers
Civil, mechanical, electrical, and software engineers are needed in many industries, including construction, technology, energy, and manufacturing.
- Teachers and Educators
With the growing number of immigrants, the demand for teachers is increasing, especially those who can teach ESL (English as a Second Language).
Where to look for a job in Canada?
Online platforms and websites with job listings usually help expats find work in Canada:
- Canadian Job Bank - This website is operated by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). A database of vacancies from employment services is collected here.
- Google for Jobs - Use Google as you normally would and you can find job listings compiled by Google. For example, you might type in the search query "HR jobs in Toronto," and a Google job board will likely pop up.
- LinkedIn is a social media platform for professionals to communicate. There is also a job section where you can find many job listings in your desired location.
- Indeed
- Eluta.ca
Average salary in Canada
The salary level usually starts at $14 per hour and depends on your qualifications, experience and field of work.
The average salary in Canada is $52,600 per year and above.
The duration of the working week is 36-40 hours per week with full employment. Also, the employee has the right to 2-3 weeks of paid vacation every year.
Canada offers expats great job prospects, so choose the program and embark on a fantastic journey through the country.
Get advice from immigration lawyers to ensure a safe move to Canada. Qualified specialists with legal education will help you avoid unpleasant situations during migration abroad.
Recall! In 2024, Canada set a record for the number of visa refusals, which indicates significant changes in the country's immigration policy. We have already told you how many applications were rejected, which visa categories were affected the most, what strategic changes the government is implementing to control immigration and the possible consequences of such decisions for the country's economy.
Products from Visit World for a comfortable trip:
Checklist for obtaining a visa and necessary documents in the Canada;
Legal advice on immigration to the Canada;
Travel insurance for foreigners in the Canada;
Medical insurance all over the world.
We monitor the accuracy and relevance of our information. Therefore, if you see any error or discrepancy, please write to our hotline.
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