Canada’s reputation as a key destination for international workers remains unchallenged.For those moving to Canada from India, there has never been a better time to seek secure employment in the great white North.
Recent federal legislation has recognized the limitless potential of a diverse and dynamic workforce.Consequently, the Government of Canada has launched an incentive targeting skilled immigrants for numerous jobs in various fields across Canada.
This has made moving to Canada a far more accessible endeavor for skilled immigrants looking to transfer their skills to a new home. It also provides an incentive for Indian workers already in Canada to seek work that matches their initial skill set.
Additionally, for those who have already immigrated from India to the US, the federal government of Canada has developed an open work permit for those in the US operating on a H1-B visa.
This means if you to the US with an Indian passport and you are struggling to secure viable employment (or have ever been curious about working in Canada), for you!
In this article, we’ll be taking a deep dive into the opportunities available for Indian citizens thinking of moving to Canada, as well as those operating on H1-B visas in US keen to make the trip up north.
The Job Market
Canada has seen an unparalleled rise in immigration numbers from India, and with the data trending upward, there has never been a better time to immigrate to Canada. However, before any sort of plunging into a pool of new opportunities, it’s best to lay out a plan to see what exactly works for you within your means and ambitions.
For starters, taking into account the current state of the Canadian job market is the best way to set your expectations if you are planning a big move, as charging blindly into any workforce without looking into the details, can spell trouble for the unprepared.
As of this article's publication, numerous variables are at play that are affecting the Canadian job market..
Here is an overview of what is happening in the Canadian labor market landscape in 2023.
Pros
- The demand for specialists has never been higher.
- There is high demand for jobs within the Canadian healthcare system.
- The Canadian government has released initiatives to incentivize to actively hire experts in various fields across the country.
Cons
- The Canadian job market is outpaced by its growing population.
- The unemployment rate is sitting at roughly 5.5%.
- There are more people than jobs created.
As the job market continues to fluctuate in Canada, those seeking work should not be discouraged, as like anywhere else in the world, the availability of jobs is an ever changing landscape that is never permanent and can always be navigated with the right help.
The Demand for Skilled Workers
Securing employment in Canada involves the same obstacles as anywhere else across the globe. Luckily for you, major benefits are being put in place to secure new immigrants the right kind of employment in the right fields.
The Canadian government recently launched category-based selection incentives, which apply to 82 job categories in 5 work sectors.
These sectors include,
- Healthcare
- Science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)
- Transport
- Agriculture
- Agri-food (food production and preservation)
This new incentive (dubbed the Express Entry system) aims to provide those looking for work in Canada with the opportunity to acquire specialized employment. For those immigrating from India, this system is one of the best new measures implemented by the Canadian government to secure specialized jobs.
However, for those unfamiliar with the details surrounding each of the five listed sectors, there are some easy identifiers to look out for when it comes to these divisions. If you are planning on moving to Canada from India and have any specializations in these fields, you may be qualified for express access under the new category-based selection program.
Healthcare
Canadian healthcare services are divided into numerous fields, many of which cover a wide variety of potential positions.
Here are some that may apply to you.
- Dentistry
- Medicine
- Nursing
- Nutrition and Dietetics
- Occupational and Physical Therapy
- Pharmacy
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Veterinary Medicine
Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Fields involved in STEM are incredibly varied and cover various specializations. The good news is, due to the expansive nature of this sector, you may already be qualified!
- Science/Science Technology: Architecture Managers, Physicists, Chemists, Geoscientists, Oceanographers, Meteorologists, Climatologists, Biologists, Agricultural Representatives, Chemical Technicians, Chemical Specialists, Geological Technicians, Geological Technologists, Biological Technicians, and Biological Technologists.
- Engineering and Engineering Technology: Engineering Managers, Civil Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, Electronic Engineers, Computer Engineers, Chemical Engineers, Industrial Engineers, Metallurgical Engineers, Mining Engineers, Geological Engineers, Petroleum Engineers, Aerospace Engineers, Civil Engineering Technologists, Civil Engineering Technicians, Industrial Engineering Technologists, Industrial Engineering Technicians, Electrical Engineering Technologists, and Electrical Engineering Technicians.
- Mathematics, Computer, and Information Sciences: Computer and Information System Managers, Mathemetcians, Data Scientists, Cyber Security Specialists, Business System Specialists, Information System Specialists, Database Analysts, Data Administrators, Computer Systems Developers, Computer Systems Programmers, Computer Systems Developers, Software Engineers, Software Designers, Software Developers, Software Programmers, Web Developers, Web Programmers, Computer Network Technicians, Web Technicians, and Information System Technicians.
Transport
There is a variety of transportation jobs across numerous sectors in Canada. Whether these jobs fall under commercial trucking, aviation, aquatic, marine, or rail transport, the opportunities are endless!
Here is a quick summary of some transport fields that may apply to you.
- Trucking: Truck Drivers, Supply Chain Planners, Maintenance Operatives, Distribution Managers, Material Handlers, Trucking Managers, Trucking Supervisors, Vehicle Engineers, Vehicle Technicians, Vehicle Mechanics, and Transport Inspectors.
- Aviation: Pilots, Co-Pilots, Aircraft Maintenance Engineers, Aerospace Engineers, Loadmasters, Air Traffic Controllers, Airport Operations Specialists, and Aviation Inspectors.
- Marine: Watchkeepers, Marine Welders, Marine Engineers, Deck Officers, Engine Crew, and Inspectors.
- Railway: Railway Conductors, Locomotive Engineers, Railway Technicians, Rail Traffic Controllers, and Railway Inspectors.
Agriculture and Agri-food
Canada is a big place. Especially when it comes to farmland, as numerous provinces across the nation continue to host a wide variety of agricultural opportunities every year. For those moving to Canada with a background in farming, your next job may already be waiting for you!
To help get you started, here are some of Canada’s most prominent agricultural positions.
- Farm Manager
- Crop Technician
- Livestock Manager
- Agricultural Inspector
- Agricultural Consultant
- Agronomist
- Farm Equipment Mechanic
- Food Scientist/Technologist
- Horticulturist
- Dairy Farmer
- Poultry Farmer
- Greenhouse Worker
- Farm Laborer
- Veterinarian
- Fisheries Technician
- Farm Marketing and Sales
- Agribusiness Manager
In summary, if you are moving to Canada from India, and any of the categories mentioned above match your skill set, you may be eligible for the new Express Entry program. This program offers you the opportunity to merge into the Canadian workforce seamlessly, and secure yourself a job in agriculture that best matches your background.
The Best Jobs for Indian Immigrants in Canada
So far, we have covered the knowledge, statistics, and programs available to those looking to immigrate to Canada. While this information is the best kind to have if you’re looking to navigate new programs offered by the Canadian government, many jobs are readily available if you are considering moving from India to Canada without assistance programs.
In this section, we’ll cover the most promising jobs for Indian citizens looking to integrate into the Canadian workforce while covering historically favored jobs held by Indian citizens who have already established themselves in the Canadian job market.
Information Technology (IT)
Canada’s tech sector is thriving, and the best part is that this particular industry is always creating new opportunities for those with the experience required.
IT work has some of the most viable employment opportunities for those moving from India to Canada. However, like almost any form of viable employment, it’s best to know exactly where you fall in terms of qualification before embarking on the search for a job in the tech sector.
Here is a quick summary of the most viable IT jobs in Canada for those moving from India.
- IT Project Manager
- Data Analyst/Scientist
- Cloud Engineer/Architect
- Cybersecurity Analyst/Engineer
- Network Engineer/Architect
- Full Stack Developer
- DevOps Engineer
- UI/UX Designer
Professionals in Healthcare
As mentioned previously, Canada is facing a developing crisis in its healthcare industry, as a nationwide staff shortage continues to impact the country.
For those looking to immigrate to Canada with a medical background, there has never been a more pressing time to lend your skills and expertise.
While we have already covered some elements of medical-related work when discussing the Canadian need for specialists, it is still important to know just how big the sector is.You may already qualify for a job without knowing it!
Here are just a few that may match your work history.
- Physician
- Registered Nurse (RN)
- Nurse Practitioner (NP)
- Medical Laboratory Technologist
- Radiologic Technologist
- Occupational Therapist
- Optometrist
- Medical Doctor (MD) Specialist
- Psychologist
- Social Worker
- Paramedic
- Home Health Care Aide
- Healthcare Administrator/Manager
Culinary Jobs
Canada is known for its cultural diversity. Numerous citizens of the world have made it their new home for a long time. As a result, a cultural infusion can be recognized throughout the country’s historical makeup.
This can be most prominently seen in its art, its music, and, to be more specific, its food.
Jobs within Canada's culinary field are lively and in excess across the country.
Here are just a few that may be a good fit for you if you plan to find employment in Canada.
- Chef/Cook
- Baker
- Sous Chef
- Catering Manager
- Ethnic Cuisine Chef
- Restaurant Manager
It is important to keep in mind that, unlike the previously listed work sectors, culinary jobs can vary greatly in terms of qualification and training. Some may require prerequisites like culinary school and workplace experience, while others may not.
So it’s important to do some homework while considering moving to Canada from India.
Engineering, Mechanics, and Labor
Canada is a county that is constantly seeking to improve itself.
Whether this comes in the form of infrastructure, technology, or transport — one thing is for certain — industrial curiosity shows no signs of slowing down across the country. Beyond that, engineers, mechanics, and general laborers are some of the most favored forms of career exploration by Indian immigrants looking to find work in Canada.
Much like culinary work, many jobs require different ranges of experience, as some may require certificates and others post-secondary degrees.
Here are a few examples of industrial jobs available for those considering moving to Canada from India.
- Construction Laborer
- Warehouse Worker
- General Laborer
- Landscaper/Groundskeeper
- Janitor/Cleaner
- Automotive Mechanic
- Heavy Equipment Mechanic
- Diesel Mechanic
There are many work sectors across Canada that have been favored by those who have moved from India over the decades. It is very likley that you already have the tools in your toolkit to find the right match for you when it comes to a career in the industrial sector.
H1-B Visa Holders
Canada has recently opened up work permits to H1-B visa holders in the United States. This is an initial response to the growing tech sector in Canada alongside the nation’s desire for skilled workers.
Indians make up over half of H1-B visa holders in the U.S. — so for those considering making the move up north — there has never been a better time than now. This program allows H1-B visa holders to apply for an open work permit to work and live in Canada for up to three years. There are other perks that come with this open opportunity.
Here are a few of them.
- Family members can join the applicant.
- Family members can actively seek employment in Canada.
- Family members can actively study in Canada.
- After three years, the foreign national can apply for another program to obtain permanent residency and later Canadian citizenship.
This H1-B visa program is active until the limit of 10,000 applicants is reached, so there is no time like the present to consider seeking work in Canada!
Other Immigration Programs for Moving to Canada
The H-1B visa is far from the only immigration program that allows foreign workers to obtain a Canadian permanent residence and later become a Canadian citizen.
- If you are a skilled worker, you can apply for a work permit through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Program, and other Federal Skilled Workers programs.
- If you are in a skilled trade, you can look into the Federal Skilled Trades program.
- If you want to move to a specific province or territory, say Ontario or Prince Edward Island, you can check out provincial immigration programs.
- Canadian employers looking to hire a foreign national skilled worker can sponsor employees through designated programs as well.
Depending on which program you use to enter Canada, you may need to calculate the cost of your permanent residence fee, which you can find here, and the documents you'll need in the process. You should also remember that permanent residents have almost the same rights as Canadian citizens, besides the right to vote.
Take On Canadian Opportunities With Borderless
Leaping into life in a new country is a big step. For those looking to move to Canada, this is a life-changing decision that comes with not just securing employment but the right kind of employment for you.
Canada hosts limitless opportunities that work in tandem with your limitless potential.
Canadian Opportunities For Employers
Borderless is built from the ground up to provide the kind of administrative overlook that you require as a stable enterprise. Regardless of the service you provide as an employer, our services can provide the kind of safety net required when navigating the world of global employment policy between two countries.
We can help you navigate different strategies to ensure that new workers who have moved to Canada from India have the right kind of support when it comes to the regulatory details of the hiring process.
This can be in the form of facilitating payroll requirements, onboarding and navigating what is available to your workforce in the form of benefits and coverage.
Conclusion
For any employer looking to hire on a dynamic workforce that has just made the move to Caanda from India, Borderless is your go-to service to help you manage the details while you focus on the larger moving pieces of your business.
Additionally, for any Indian immigrants moving to Canada who require a little help managing the web of regulatory details, we have you covered as well! Borderless, we make it our top priority to manage the needs of both the employer and the employee in an equal and efficient manner.
Check out our services today to see how!
Disclaimer
Borderless does not provide legal services or legal advice to anyone. This includes customers, contractors, employees, partners, and the general public. We are not lawyers or paralegals. Please read our full disclaimer here.
