Working in Canada?

[PreciousNickia]

I am a 25 year old male from Serbia. I've lived here all my life and I wish to move. I've already researched information regarding migration to Canada on a work visa, however there is one main thing that I'd like to inquire about. Do I need a valid job offer upon arrival in Canada in order to get the work visa or can I just search for a job when I get there? Will they grant me the visa without having a job offer? Can someone explain please?

Thank you.

 

[scylla]

You can't apply for a work permit without a job offer.

The first step is to find an employer in Canada who is willing to offer you a full time job. That employer must then obtain approval to hire a foreign worker (this is something called an LMIA). To get an approved LMIA the employer first has to advertise the job for at least a month to prove that no Canadian could be found for the role. Next the employer has to submit the LMIA application for processing along with a $1,000 fee. Processing typically takes 2-4 months. If the LMIA is approved (not all are) - you can then applied for a closed work permit that will be tied to that specific employer and job.

So your first step is to find an employer in Canada who is willing to offer you a full time job.

 

[shirebikes]

Not the only way - you can also obtain a visa without a job offer depending on your work experience and education - realistically you need a masters degree and a couple of years work experience. you should be able to find the relevant info on the CIC website.

 

[hulahoop]

Also you can get a young person's holiday visa right?

http://www.canadianimmigration.net/work/holiday-visa/

That's probably going to be the best first step.

That way you can get to know the country, look around for work, etc...

Just make sure that you apply for another visa before it's too late, they only last a year I believe.


EDIT: sorry I made a mistake, there's no programme for Serbians. Urgh.