How to Get a Job in Canada From Nigeria

Discovering and applying for jobs in Canada from Nigeria can seem like a long, complicated process, and you might wonder if you’ll ever find that perfect job. 

Fortunately, you can use many techniques to streamline this process and make it more manageable to find the appropriate position quickly.

So, if you are planning to immigrate to Canada, one of the first steps will be finding a job there. 

Canada has considerable opportunities for skilled workers. If you are looking to apply from Nigeria, this resource will give you all the information you need about getting a job in Canada as an immigrant. 

We cover how to find jobs and get hired, what types of work visas Canadians need from Nigerians, and how much it costs.

Why You Should Consider Working in Canada From Nigeria

There are many reasons why people choose to work abroad, but you must find out as much as possible before embarking on this journey. 

Here are some of the most important points when deciding whether or not you should work in Canada: 

• The cost of living is cheaper than in other major countries 
• The Canadian government has higher minimum wage requirements, which protect workers and increases their buying power. 
• Employers can’t force employees to accept low pay if the industry requires high skill and education levels. 
• Canada values diversity and welcomes immigrants with open arms.
• The country is well known for its friendly people and a strong sense of multiculturalism, making it an ideal place for an international ex-pat worker.

The Process of Getting a Job in Canada From Nigeria

To enter the Canadian workforce, you need an employment permit. You’ll also need your employment permit before applying for permanent residency.

An Employment Permit is a visa issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada that allows certain skilled workers, either temporary foreign workers or employed in specific organizations outside of Canada, to work temporarily in the country. 

The first step is getting an assessment done. Your employer will assess whether you have enough knowledge and skills to fill their vacancy, and if they think you do, they’ll pay for the assessment. 

If it’s determined that you meet these requirements, you’ll be granted an employment permit; if your employer is deemed qualified or there’s no suitable Canadian candidate available at the time of application, then a receipt will be issued.

Work Permit Types in Canada

To work in Canada, you will need a valid offer of employment. 

There are several types of permits available for persons that want to reside and work in this country, as shown below:

1. Work Permit for General Purposes
2. Work Permit-International Experience Program (for those over 18 years old) 
3. Work Permits Based on Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)
4. Co-op Student Work Permit (requires co-op program acceptance by federal or provincial government institution) 
5. Work Permits Under the NAFTA (North American Free Trade Agreement)
6. Internship Visa (may be obtained by international students enrolled at university degree level) 
7. Work Permits for Postgraduate Students
8. Family Member Temporary Residence Visa (for family members of Canadian citizens or Permanent Residents who require temporary residence in the country) 
9. Study Visa

Ways of Getting Jobs in Canada From Nigeria

1. Through Express Entry Program

Suppose you are in Nigeria and plan to get a job in Canada. In that case, it is best that you first register for the express entry program by submitting your profile and receiving an invitation letter. 

The express entry program enables candidates with the right skills to apply for permanent residency in Canada through the application pool managed by immigration, citizenship, and refugees of Canada (ICR).

When your profile has been submitted to IRL, and they have granted you an invitation letter, you can enter into their pool of candidates. 

You will need 3 points if your spouse is a Canadian citizen or if they live with them while they wait for their visa application to be processed.

If not, 5 points must be attained before being invited by ICR.

2. Through a Program for Skilled Workers on the Federal Level 

Another great way of getting a job in Canada from Nigeria is through the Program For Skilled Workers On The Federal Level. 

With the Program for skilled workers on the federal level, applicants may apply for immigration under the skilled workers’ category, which requires applicants to have at least 12 months of full-time work experience in one occupation within five years preceding their application date as well as meet other criteria related to age and education. 

Candidates also need to obtain at least 67 out of 100 available points on the selection grid, which measures a candidate’s human capital against specific criteria such as language proficiency, occupational experience, etc. 

You must understand that there are limitations based on age and occupation in this category. Still, it offers one viable route if you want to get a job in Canada from Nigeria.

3. Through Program for Skilled Trades on the Federal Level

One more way of getting a job in Canada from Nigeria is through the Program for skilled trades on the federal level. 

Applicants who want to qualify under this category should possess practical training and three years of working experience in one trade field or six years of working experience in two trade fields. They must also satisfy general eligibility criteria for age and educational qualifications.

4. Job Offer From a Canadian Employer

If you are lucky enough to receive an offer of employment from a company in Canada.

You should look into any additional requirements needed to get the appropriate visas and permits so that you may start your new job soon.

Effective Ways of Finding Jobs in Canada

1. Search through employment sites relevant to your interests and qualifications. 

Try not to limit yourself by looking only at Canada because so many international talents worldwide could benefit Canadian employers.

2. Attend networking or industry-specific conferences if you search for an employer in specific industries. 

Look up conferences by province, city, or within 100 kilometers of where you live and work, and join local LinkedIn groups within those circles too.

3. Utilize networks of friends/family – make sure they have connections with contacts that could be able to refer you for jobs.

Ask them specifically what kinds of vacancies they have recently seen or received requests for and see if you can add some new expertise.

Conclusion

Nigeria has many talented individuals that are educated and looking for work jobs in Canada from Nigeria. 

Being a third-world country, many Nigerians seek greener pastures in developed countries. 

Working abroad can offer quality education, experience, and opportunity for these educated professionals to improve their lives.

Canada is an excellent country to work and stay in permanently if you choose to.