System & Database Engineer from Italy – advice on remote work and Canada options

[Alex93]

Hi everyone,

I’m a 32-year-old IT professional from Italy, currently working as a System Engineer at Orizzonte Sistemi Navali.

My current responsibilities include:
– Managing and administering SQL Server databases and connected applications
– Creating reports and dashboards with Power BI
– Some experience with IBM DOORS

In the past I also worked as a freelance web developer, building websites with HTML, CSS, JavaScript (React, Bootstrap, WordPress, Node.js). I also have some experience with Python.

At the moment, I’m also expanding into cybersecurity, currently taking the TCM Ethical Hacking course to strengthen my knowledge in that area.

While I don’t hold a university degree, I have built practical experience in database management, system administration, web development and now cybersecurity fundamentals.

I’m interested in connecting with Canadian companies for remote or project-based work. My idea is to start collaborating from abroad, and if things go well, eventually explore a long-term job offer with relocation (LMIA/Express Entry/PNP).

I’d be grateful for any advice on:
– The best way to reach Canadian employers open to remote or freelance projects
– Whether anyone here has gone from remote collaboration to a permanent role in Canada
– Provinces or sectors where my skills (SQL Server, Power BI, web dev, cybersecurity) are in demand

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience!

 

[Naturgrl]

If Italian then look into IEC working holiday visa. Without a degree or any post secondary education then probably not eligible to submit an Express Entry profile. For LMIA, employer has to prove no Canadian has the education, work experience and language skills to do the job, and really must be high wage. Again without post secondary will be difficult to be approved.

1. Do research on Canadian employers where your skill set is needed.
2. If you work remotely for a Canadian company then no need to come to Canada. It is not a transfer to the office and employer may not want to go through the hassle of the LMIA process if they can pay you cheaper to work for them outside of Canada.
3. There are so many layoffs of IT professionals in Canada so competing against those with Canadian experience and education. There is no in demand province for IT.