Can I Move to Canada With a Remote Job?

While working remotely is nothing new, this mode of working saw a massive surge as nations shut down with the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic. With many companies finding this way of working equally as - if not more productive than pre-pandemic standards, more and more people are selecting this option. Today, you'll find many opportunities for a remote job in Canada. So take a look at our breakdown of everything you need to know to make your move to Canada happen, from Canadian immigration to Canadian Work Permits.

Remote Work in Canada

The onset of the pandemic resulted in a large chunk of the global workforce having to work remotely. While some people had experience with this, the vast majority had never worked from home before. And while it was a major adjustment for many, some found that they managed their time better while working at home. Two years later, many companies across the globe have kept remote work as an option for employees, as many roles can be carried out from a desk anywhere in the world. While remote jobs may have inevitable distractions at home, you can find compatible employment opportunities that accommodate your needs and personal circumstances.

With an increase in the Canadian labor market due to a large retiring population and dwindling birth rate, the good news is that chances of landing a remote job in Canada are high. Many Canadian companies realized that the nature of specific occupations enables employers to work in the comfort of their own homes with flexible working hours. Employees also have the opportunity to expand their hiring potential to exceptionally skilled workers abroad.

Why Work Remotely in Canada

Why Work Remotely in Canada | Can I Move to Canada with a Remote Job

Still pondering getting a remote job in Canada? Then let's explore some of the benefits of the reasons that explain why working remotely is the ideal scenario for you.

Avoid Long Commutes

While the Canadian transportation system is effective, you can save yourself the extra time and energy of lengthy commute times

Work From Anywhere

Remote work can help you expand your geographical reach if you need help finding a well-paying or meaningful job in your sector. You may also be allowed to work for a company in another province or territory and still stay in the one you prefer.

Save Money

Remote jobs allow you to save on gas, auto maintenance, transportation, parking fees, a professional wardrobe, lunches, and other expenses. So it’s a win for remaining within budget each month.

How to Immigrate to Canada With a Remote Job

Immigrate to Canada with a remote job | Can I Move to Canada with a Remote Job

The Great White North offers many remote job opportunities. And if you want to immigrate to Canada and work remotely from here, you may be at an advantage since you'd be directly exposed to Canadian work life and culture.

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility For Canadian Immigration

Before you apply to a Canadian immigration program, first check whether you qualify. You'll be asked to answer some questions set by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). They'll want to know about your nationality, age, language proficiency, family, education level, career experience, your access to funds, etc.

Step 2: Find an Immigration Program That Best Suits Your Profile

Canada has many immigration programs you can apply to. Some of these programs include:

  • The Express Entry System - The Express Entry system is an online points-driven system designed to yield quick immigration results. The system has three highly accommodating programs under one Express Entry umbrella. Two of them are ideal for getting a remote job in Canada. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) is for skilled workers with a degree from a recognized university. The Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) is for skilled tradespeople with a recognized diploma or certified job-specific training. You must have a minimum of two year's paid work experience and must meet the job requirements.
  • Provincial Nominee Programs - The Canada Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) is the perfect option if you want to settle in a particular Canadian province. The Government of Canada has an agreement with 11 Canadian provinces and territories that permits them to nominate foreigners who want to move here. With more than 80 PNP programs in the country, provinces and territories may nominate qualifying economic immigration candidates for Canada PR.
  • Atlantic Immigration Program - The Atlantic Immigration Program is the ideal pathway to Canadian permanent residency if you are a skilled foreign worker or an international graduate from a Canadian university hoping to settle in one of the country's of Canada’s 4 Atlantic provinces — New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island or Newfoundland and Labrador. With this program, employers in the region are able to recruit candidates to fill vacancies that locals have not filled.
  • Entrepreneur programs - Canada has a number of provincial entrepreneur programs for those who wish to start, acquire or invest in a business here. To qualify, you must have a minimum net worth of $500,000 and be willing to establish, invest in or acquire a business that will lead to more job creation here.

Note: If the immigration program falls under the Express Entry system, the ideal scenario would be to have a job offer in Canada. This factor can increase your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) points, enabling you to gain permanent residence in Canada. Check out our CRS calculator tool to find out your current CRS score.

Step 3: Apply Online

Regardless of the immigration you apply to, your application must be made online. With an online, you can:

  • Complete parts of your application digitally
  • Upload all forms and supporting documents you need for your immigration program and category
  • Resubmit your application electronically, should it be deemed incomplete

Step 4: Gather All Required Documentation

You will have to make sure you have all the documents needed by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to submit them with your application. This will include:

  • Your travel and identity documents
  • Medical examination documents from a doctor registered with the Canadian Panel of Physicians
  • Language test results - IELTS or TEF
  • A Police clearance
  • Biometrics
  • An Educational Credential Assessment (ECA)

Before you upload and submit your supporting documents, you must make sure that:

  • They are labeled correctly
  • The copies you include are clear
  • All documents you have in the checklist are included
  • You confirm all photo requirements prior to submission

Step 5: Secure an ITA

If you score well in an Express Entry draw or receive a provincial nomination, you'll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) and can apply for Canadian permanent residency. You'll have to complete the next phase - the online form - within 60 days.

Live and Work in Canada on a Canadian Work Permit

Working remotely in Canada requires a Canadian work permit and a temporary resident visa. Here's what you need to know.

What is a Canadian Work Permit?

A work permit will allow you to work legally in Canada. Canadian citizens or permanent residents do not require a work permit, so it's a good idea to check out your options for Canadian PR, as well.

Types of Canadian Work Permits

There are two types of Canadian work permits. A work permit will allow you to work legally in Canada, and you will need a job offer letter and a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) unless your occupation falls under LMIA-exempt work permits. It is important to know exactly which type you need before you start your journey to Canada.

The Employer-specific Work Permit allows you to live and work in Canada based on the conditions of the work permit. These conditions will include the following:

  • The name of the specific employer you can work for
  • The stipulated period of work
  • The location of your work (if applicable)

Before you apply for this type of work permit, you must receive a copy of the following:

  • Your employment contract:
  • A copy of an LMIA
  • An offer of employment number for those exempted from LMIAs

An Open Work Permit will allow you to work for any employer in Canada. However, the employer must be authorized and adhere to the employer's conditions. An example of these conditions can be found below:

  • The employer should not be listed as ineligible on the list of employers who have failed to comply with the conditions or
  • The employer should not offer adult services

For more information on Canadian work permits, explore our resources on completing your Canadian work permit.

Top Remote Jobs in Canada

Remote jobs in Canada | Can I Move to Canada with a Remote Job

With Canada's job market in "hot mode" - meaning there are many jobs available - there are bound to be plenty of remote jobs available as well. According to Canadian staffing agency, Randstad, the following remote occupations are currently trending in the country:

  • Customer service representative - NOC 64409
  • Software developer - NOC 21232
  • Accountant/bookkeeper - NOC 11100
  • Business development representatives - NOC 41402
  • Digital marketer - NOC 11202
  • Talent acquisition specialist - NOC 12101
  • Project manager - NOC 13100
  • Data analyst - NOC 21223
  • Administrative assistant - NOC 13110
  • Help desk / IT support - NOC 22221

Where to Look For Remote Jobs in Canada

Several platforms regularly advertise remote job opportunities in Canada. These include:

Get Ready For Your Remote Job in Canada

Now that you know more about your options for getting a remote job in Canada, you can do more research and consider whether you'd like to move to Canada permanently or live and work here on a work permit. With more people appreciating the flexibility of working remotely, more and more companies are making these kinds of jobs available here. This means your chances of landing this job in Canada are high - if you meet the eligibility requirements.

FAQs

How Are Remote Employees Paid in Canada?

Remote workers are paid in Canadian dollars, the same as those who work in an office. Currency conversion rates may apply, but it may be a small amount. The majority of people are paid bimonthly or semi-monthly. Contract, consultancy, or seasonal work, as well as odd jobs, may result in irregular pay.

What is Working Life Like in Canada?

The Canadian working culture is highly welcoming of foreign nationals. Learn more more about working life in Canada.