Your first job in Canada as a newcomer

Starting work in a new country takes courage. Many newcomers begin with an entry-level job. It helps you earn money, practise English, learn how Canadian workplaces work, and build local references while you plan your next step.

This guide covers the basics for Metro Vancouver and the Greater Toronto Area.

Please note: This guide shares general facts from official government sources. It is not immigration advice. What you are allowed to do depends on your own status and permit. For your situation, always check the official pages of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), linked below.

Step 1: Know what your status allows

Permanent residents have the right to live, work, or study anywhere in Canada (IRCC).

Work permit holders need to read their permit carefully. IRCC says most work permits are tied to a specific employer. An open work permit lets you work for other employers, with some exceptions.

If your permit is employer-specific, the "Additional Information" section lists the employer, the job, and the location. The "Conditions" and "Remarks" sections list other rules. You must follow everything listed on your permit (IRCC: Employer-specific work permits). Before you change employers, jobs, or locations, check IRCC's official guidance first.

International students have strict rules. Read the next section.

If you are an international student

These rules come from IRCC's page on working off campus, as of October 11, 2026:

During regular school terms, you can work up to 24 hours per week off campus.
During scheduled breaks, like summer or winter break, you can work unlimited hours.
You must meet every condition. For example, you must be a full-time student at a designated learning institution, you must have started your program, and your study permit must have conditions printed on it that allow off-campus work. You also need a Social Insurance Number.

IRCC warns that working more than 24 hours a week during school terms breaks the conditions of your study permit. You could lose your student status, you may not be approved for permits in the future, and you may have to leave Canada.

So when an employer asks about your availability, be clear about your limit. Never agree to more hours than you are allowed to work.

Step 2: Get your Social Insurance Number (SIN)

You need a SIN to work in Canada. Here is what Service Canada says:

Applying is free. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a Service Canada Centre. If you apply in person and your documents are in order, you may get your SIN during your visit.
If you are a temporary resident, your SIN starts with 9 and expires when your immigration documents expire. When you extend your permit, you will need to update your SIN, too.

Keep your SIN private (Protect your SIN):

Don't put it on your resume or job applications.
An employer needs it only after you are hired.
Never give it out over the phone unless you made the call and you know it is legally required.

Step 3: Make a Canadian-style resume

Resumes in Canada may look different from those in your home country. The Government of Canada's Job Bank advises:

No photo
No age, date of birth, or marital status
No SIN
Keep it short, no more than two pages
Put references on a separate page, and share them only when asked

Your experience from other countries counts. List each job with the country, your job title, and what you did. Focus on skills that fit the job you want now, such as customer service, handling cash, teamwork, and languages.

For a step-by-step guide and an example, read Writing your first resume with no work experience.

About "Canadian experience"

Many newcomers hear that employers want "Canadian experience." In Ontario, a newer rule helps. Since January 1, 2026, employers with 25 or more employees can't include requirements for Canadian experience in publicly advertised job postings or their application forms (ontario.ca).

In both provinces, an entry-level job, volunteering, or a short training program can help you build local experience and references.

Step 4: Get free help

You don't have to do this alone. Free services can help with your resume, interviews, English classes, and your job search.

Federal newcomer services. IRCC funds free newcomer services for permanent residents and some other groups, such as protected persons. Temporary residents are generally not eligible, except under certain programs (IRCC: Eligibility). To find services near you, enter your postal code or city in IRCC's newcomer services tool.

In BC:

Temporary workers, international students, and new citizens can get help through the BC Newcomer Services Program. These services are free and are often available in your language. Eligibility depends on each organization, so contact them to check (WelcomeBC).
WorkBC Centres offer free employment services, such as resume help and interview practice. To qualify, you must be legally allowed to work in BC and be unemployed or underemployed (WorkBC eligibility).

In Ontario:

Employment Ontario offers free one-on-one support with resumes, interview practice, and job searches at many locations. You can call 1-800-387-5656.

Step 5: Know your rights and watch for scams

You have rights at work, including minimum wage, paid overtime, and breaks. Learn the rules for your province:

Scammers often target newcomers with fake job offers. A real employer never asks you to pay for a job. Learn the warning signs in Job scams that target first-time job seekers.

Next steps

Browse entry-level jobs in Metro Vancouver and the Greater Toronto Area
Prepare for your interview: Your first job interview