Foreign Workers in Canada: Addressing Some Common Issues And Concerns

Canada as a foreign workers destination is one of the most popular among many individuals coming from different foreign countries. You can attribute this to different factors.

One, Canada has a high worker demand for certain skilled and specialized occupations. Two, due to this great demand, the Canadian government offers appealing perks and benefits to all foreign workers. And three, one of the said perks is the opportunity to be a permanent Canadian resident – the most appealing of all.

It is for this reason that many individuals aim to work and immigrate to Canada. The process is not easy, though. There are considerable requirements, and it can take a lot of time – from a few months to a few years.

Below, we look at some of the concerns and issues among those who aim to work and are already working in Canada. We also look at some concerns regarding Canada immigration.

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Question: What is the newest regulation involving Federal Skilled Workers? Is it true that there is already a quota? If so, when will that be implemented?

Answer: Yes, there is a new regulation involving Federal Skilled Workers and that involves a quota in the number of workers to be accepted. For each occupation covered by the program only 1,000 workers will be accepted and 20,000 workers for all occupations every year. The regulation has been in effect since June 26, 2010 and the first year covers the period between June 2010 to June 2011.

(Note: This Federal ruling will change from time to time, so if you are still waiting for the right time to apply – don’t. Apply as early as you can if you think you are qualified during assessment, either by yourself or thru a qualified representative)

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Question: I know about the low-skilled program and the high-skilled program that are in effect in Canada right now. I’ve been planning to work in Canada, but I’m not sure which of the two programs is a better option. Any advice?

Answer: Yes, there are low-skilled and high-skilled programs available for individuals who want to work in Canada. First and foremost, what is your specialization or skill? Check the occupations covered by the two programs and determine where your skill falls under. That said, overall, the high-skilled program offers more benefits compared to the low-skilled program. First, if you’re planning to apply for permanent residency in Canada, you’ll have a better chance if you qualify in the high-skilled program. Second, you don’t need a job offer under this program in contrast with the low-skilled program. If you apply under the low-skilled program, you should have a Canadian employer sponsor you for your application to be granted. And third, working under the low-skilled program will require that you return to your country after the two-year period.

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Question: I’m enrolled in the live-in caregiver program and I only have a couple of months left before I’m done with the 24 months work period requirement. I’m planning to apply for permanent residency afterwards, but my work permit is about to expire. Should I get a new work permit?

Answer: Congratulations! You need to have a valid work permit for you to be eligible to apply for permanent residency. You will need to apply for a new work permit since you said your current permit is about to expire. If you plan to stay with your present employer after the two-year period, you can simply apply for an open work permit. What’s important is, you have a valid work permit when you apply for the permanent residency program.

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Question: I am halfway through the live in caregiver program here in Canada – I still have a few months left to complete the program and apply for permanent residency. I have a boyfriend who is a Canadian citizen, and we are planning to get married. I know he can sponsor me afterwards, but which would be the faster and surer way to be a permanent resident in Canada?

Answer: Actually, both ways are valid for permanent residency. You can finish the remaining months as a live-in caregiver or you can marry your boyfriend and be sponsored to be a permanent resident in Canada. But, it would be better if you still finish the live-in caregiver program – that’s a sure way to being a permanent Canadian resident.

The application process for a foreign worker in Canada can get complicated at times, as well as the permanent residency program of Canada. But, there are online guides that you can refer on to help you resolve all your issues and concerns.

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Disclaimer: The immigration article posted above does not substitute as a legal advice on immigration to Canada issues. If you need help about your current immigration status or situation, consult a qualified immigration lawyer or consultant in your country or email us if you need representation with one of our lawyers. Use due diligence in doing so.