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Tips for Finding Work Before you Arrive
Finding work in Ontario is not easy, especially if you are looking for a job prospect before you arrive. The job search process of preparing your resume, applying, networking and interviewing for the roles you want is a full-time job that often requires you to be here in person.
It is possible to have a job prospect before you land and once you've obtained your Permanent Residence status. You can increase your chances of finding work before you arrive by following these tips.
1. Have a Canadian-Style Resume and Cover Letter
Different countries have different requirements when it comes to their workforce and job application process. A Canadian-style resume is recommended to be no more than 2 pages. Resumes should include the most relevant work experience that relates to the job you are applying that dates back no more than 10 years. Never list your salary, a picture, or other personal details like your marital status and family information. The human rights code in Canada protects employees from having to disclose any of those personal details so that you won’t be discriminated against based on those details
2. Refine Your LinkedIn Account
If you’ve already told your work and networks in your country of origin that you will be moving to Canada, then change your location on your LinkedIn profile to a Canadian one instead of your country of origin. Recruiters looking for candidates on LinkedIn will favour local candidates over those who are overseas.
Also, make sure your LinkedIn account is up to date with the most current information, and that your grammar is perfect. Poor grammar or careless mistakes can make you appear like your English level is not up to standard. Recruiters need to see that you have a professional level of communication before they can consider you for a job.
3. Join the Job Bank
Job Bank is Canada's government-backed job search site that can help you plan your career and see what jobs are available in your field before you even arrive. You can join the web version of the site or download the app. Once you take out a profile on that platform, you will have access to job postings from across Canada. The Job Bank platform also offers the latest labour market information, reports, and personal assessment tools to help you identify your strengths and weaknesses, what employers want, and plan for your career.
4. Find a Mentoring Program
Mentoring programs match you with an established professional in Canada for a one-on-one, occupation-specific mentoring relationship. A strong mentoring partnership can help you build vital professional connections, learn about the corporate culture and help you gain labour market insights in your respective field of employment. Research different mentoring programs in and around your destination city to become a “mentee” and find a mentor in your professional field. TRIEC Mentoring Partnership provides a mentorship program in the Greater Toronto Area. According to TRIEC, 77% of mentees find employment in their field or a related field within six months of completing the program.
5. Determine What Canadian Accreditations You Will Need
Research what extra accreditation or education you may need to successfully transition into your career field in Canada. Canada has a labour force with workers from all over the world with different types of learning credentials. You may need to take extra courses or write an exam to validate the credentials of your country of origin. Do not let unrecognized international credentials prevent you from attaining the job that matches your full experience and expertise. The Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC) helps you determine what credentials you will need to practice your occupation in Canada.
6. Register for Free Pre-Arrival Government Programs
The government offers free programs to help you find work faster. You can register online for pre-arrival employment services like JVS’, Canada InfoNet program or NextStopCanada, before you even get here. Canada InfoNet connects skilled newcomer professionals from all around the world to a Mentor with at least 2 years of similar work experience in your province of choice. An Employment Coach will match you with a Mentor who will guide you in an eight-week program on the different aspects of navigating the Canadian job market.
Learn more about the Online Mentoring Program by visiting the InfoNet page and watching their introductory video.
Orientation to Ontario also offers free webinars and workshops you can take online to start learning about the Canadian job market.
7. Consider Volunteer Work
Don’t rule out volunteer opportunities as an immediate way to gain experience when you first get here. Pick volunteer opportunities that are relevant to your skill set and career. You don’t need to dedicate the entire work week to doing volunteer work, as you will need to apply your time towards your job-search. But dedicating a few hours a week of volunteer experience can help you understand the Canadian work culture, and practice your technical skills and communication skills (perfect your English). It’s also a good opportunity to get Canadian references.
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Last updated:
December 22, 2025
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