How do I apply for a job?

To apply for a job in Canada, you will send a cover letter and a resume to the employer in response to a job ad.

Depending on the job, the employer may request a portfolio of your work, particularly for creative and technical careers. Your cover letter and resume are very important because they create the employer's first impression of you. Everything matters, including spelling and formatting.

Often, job postings have a deadline for applications. You must submit your cover letter and resume by the deadline, or your resume will not even be considered.

When a job posting has no deadline, it can mean different things. A job posting might say that the company is doing "ongoing recruitment," which means they are always looking for people to fill those positions. It can also mean they want to collect resumes on file because they expect to hire soon. However, as of January 2026, employers will be required to disclose in the job ad whether a position is for an existing vacancy or not.

What does the employer want?

Employers want you to apply in the format they request and to follow the instructions in the job posting. The most common format for job applications is a Canadian-style resume. A Canadian-style resume is generally only two to three pages long. A CV is not recommended unless it is specifically tailored to your career and requested in the job ad or during the interview process.

Many companies allow you to submit your application through their website or a form directly in the job ad. You use these forms to submit your resume and cover letter as a single file or copy it into the form as text. When you copy and paste your resume, the formatting of your resume might change. Many online forms let you "preview" your resume before you submit it, which allows you to review your resume before sending it.

They may also ask you to complete an online profile on their website.

In Ontario, recent changes to the Employment Standards Act state that employers can no longer require ‘Canadian experience’ unless it's a requirement by the regulator of your profession or trade. They must also clearly state if they are using artificial intelligence (AI) at any point in the application process.

Find more tips, steps and examples in this article about emailing your resume.

Where can I get help creating my resume?

Resumes should be adapted for each job posting you are applying to. You can get help from an employment counsellor at a community agency near you to learn more about resume and cover letter writing.

Many community agencies provide employment services to help you get started in your job search. To find an employment service in your area, go to Services Near Me

Some examples of programs that help newcomers find work:

For More Information

How To Create a Resume PDF and When To Use It - Information about how to create an internet-ready resume and how to protect your personal information with online resumes.
JVS Blog - This blog for job seekers provides information about career choices, finding a job, marketing yourself, and more. You can submit questions. The blog posts are written by employment experts.
Job Search Advice - Learn about job opportunities for veterans, students/youth, seniors, persons with disabilities, and Indigenous people. From the Government of Canada.
Ontario’s Labour Market - Labour market information and statistics. From the Province of Ontario.