American- best way to land a job offer?

[MalTX]

Hi everyone. I almost hate to post this as I'm sure someone has been in a similar situation but, I haven't come across it yet.

As I'm from the USA I do not qualify for a working holiday visa. In order to get a work permit I need a job offer. I can see why companies wouldn't want to hire me, as I'm not particularly skilled, and I'm sure they would rather not go through the trouble of hiring a foreigner. I do have a bachelors degree, but not much job experience outside of being a server/bartender.

My question: is it best to physically be in Canada and apply for jobs in person and hope that a company is willing to go through the hassle, or are there agencies or companies to be contacted which are prepared to deal with this situation?

Any help, advice, or personal anecdotes would be appreciated.

Thanks!

 

[canuck_in_uk]

As I'm from the USA I do not qualify for a working holiday visa. In order to get a work permit I need a job offer. I can see why companies wouldn't want to hire me, as I'm not particularly skilled, and I'm sure they would rather not go through the trouble of hiring a foreigner. I do have a bachelors degree, but not much job experience outside of being a server/bartender.

My question: is it best to physically be in Canada and apply for jobs in person and hope that a company is willing to go through the hassle, or are there agencies or companies to be contacted which are prepared to deal with this situation?

Hi

If you are a recent graduate, you may be able to apply for SWAP http://www.swap.ca/in_eng/us_index.aspx

Depending on your degree, you may qualify under NAFTA. You would still need a job offer in Canada but the employer would not require an LMO to hire you.

Finding an employer willing to hire a foreign worker and go through the LMO process is difficult. I can't say whether applying in person would make any difference, as it doesn't change the fact that the employer will need to wait several months for the LMO and work permit to process.

 

[NetMecca]

I do not know to much about NAFTA arrangements regarding employment in Canada from USA, though, I do know that it is considerably easier if you are able to physically attend interviews.

I had some trouble finding a job without being willing to travel for the interviews at least. So even if you are not in Canada, I would suggest that you make sure you are able to physically attend interviews in Canada.

Good luck

 

[MalTX]

Thanks for the replies! Unfortunately I do not qualify for SWAP, but that was a great suggestion.
I am conflicted after reading so many personal stories on here. My boyfriend lives in Ottawa and I am now considering staying with him for a few weeks to apply and interview in person. I'm not looking for anything specific or related to my degree. I am just curious if it is even a possibility that someone would hire an American for a server or bartending position? I'd really just like to get my foot in the door. I'm just worried about going there with a one-way ticket and being unemployed for 6+months. It sounds like this is a reasonable worry and that I should just stay optimistic and keep applying like crazy. So I guess I'll keep searching around on here for helpful anecdotes thanks again.

 

[canuck_in_uk]

I am just curious if it is even a possibility that someone would hire an American for a server or bartending position?

The employer would still need to get a positive LMO, which requires that they advertise the job for at least 4 weeks, using several methods, to show that they couldn't find a Canadian citizen or resident for the job.

There is little chance of that for a server/bartender job.

 

[MalTX]

Thanks for the info. I'm really beginning to think it won't be possible to get a temporary work visa with my work experience and degree. Solid facts like the 4 week mark are helpful.

 

[NetMecca]

If you are set on Coming to Canada, perhaps consider a study permit as an option. This may provide you with some work options that are less challenging, and further opportunities to stay and live in Canada.

I guess your motivation to come will dictate the options you explore. With time, planning and proper execution I believe it is possible for nearly anyone to come to Canada.

So decide what you want, and simply make that happen

Good luck !!...

 

[scylla]

Thanks for the info. I'm really beginning to think it won't be possible to get a temporary work visa with my work experience and degree. Solid facts like the 4 week mark are helpful.

And after advertising, the processing of the LMO application typically takes another 2 months. So an employer needs to be willing to wait a good 3+ months for you to start working.

 

[MalTX]

I've actually already applied to two schools in Ontario. The acceptance letters are sent out April 1st. It's just very difficult to continue a long-distance relationship with all of this uncertainty. Also, international tuition isn't very affordable. My motivation to continue my relationship has dictated the options I've explored, and I feel like I've exhausted my resources. I understand that I'm not the only person in this situation and that there are plenty of people who feel just as defeated as I do. I think at this point I will have to simply wait until April. Thanks for the help!

 

[canuck_in_uk]

I've actually already applied to two schools in Ontario. The acceptance letters are sent out April 1st. It's just very difficult to continue a long-distance relationship with all of this uncertainty. Also, international tuition isn't very affordable. My motivation to continue my relationship has dictated the options I've explored, and I feel like I've exhausted my resources. I understand that I'm not the only person in this situation and that there are plenty of people who feel just as defeated as I do. I think at this point I will have to simply wait until April. Thanks for the help!

For a student permit, I believe you'll need to show around $15 000 upfront and show the visa officer you can support yourself for the duration of the studies.

If you are coming to be with your partner, it would be a lot cheaper to come as a visitor and be unemployed than to come as an international student.

 

[MalTX]

It seems there is no uplifting story or glimpse of hope to be given here. I agree that it would be cheaper to live off of my partner and simply be together for a year. However, I am looking to further my education anyhow and at least I would be able to stay busy with school and a part-time job with a study permit. I don't prefer that option, but it seems to be the only way.

 

[canuck_in_uk]

It seems there is no uplifting story or glimpse of hope to be given here. I agree that it would be cheaper to live off of my partner and simply be together for a year. However, I am looking to further my education anyhow and at least I would be able to stay busy with school and a part-time job with a study permit. I don't prefer that option, but it seems to be the only way.

If you can afford to study, it would certainly keep you busier than simply being a visitor. As for getting a part-time job, see here for the rules on working while a student http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/study/work.asp.