OFW Guide to Living and Working in Canada

The United States of America has and will always be a favorite among many Filipinos. Apparently, there is another country in the north that are more welcoming to foreign workers – Canada. 

Canada has become a haven for many Filipinos. At present, FIlipinos are the third largest Asian group in Canada (next to Indian and Chinese) and the largest group from Southeast Asia. Filipino immigrants also contributed to country’s economic growth by working as teachers, doctors, nurses, workers, caregivers, and technicians among others. More importantly, Canada has “multiculturalism” as part of its policy wherein everyone is treated equally and has high regard for ancestry. This explains why this country is a favorite among Filipinos, especially for those who are thinking to settle down there.

Do you plan to work here as well? If yes, then here’s what you need to know about living and working in Canada:

General Facts 

• Located in the Northern part of North America that has 10 provinces and three territories.
• Canada is also the second largest country by total area.
• It is a federal parliamentary democracy and constitutional monarchy with Queen Elizabeth II as the Head of State
• The country is considered as one of the world’s most ethnically diverse and multicultural nation because of its policies that welcomes immigrants from all over the world.
• This developed country is among the highest in the world when it comes to economic freedom, civil liberties, transparency in the government, education, and quality of life.

Language 

English is the official language in Canada, which means you won’t have difficulty talking to people, especially your employers. Aside from English, French is also widely spoken, particularly in Quebec, which listed this as the official language in the area. Don’t be surprised to see laws written in French as well.

Since Canada is a home to diverse culture and people, it’s not surprising to hear people speak in other languages such as Chinese Mandarin, Filipino, Spanish, Arabic, German, and Italian among others.

Weather 

Canada’s weather is among the biggest challenge among Filipinos. Weather can be extremely hot or cold (you could experience a drop in temperature of up to 30 degrees below zero), depending on the season. It is best to be prepared in terms of clothing by the time winter season starts.

Work Permit

Before you can work in Canada, you need to pass the Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA), a screening mechanism required to all Canadian employers before they can hire foreign workers. The exception for LMIA would be if you are hired under the International Mobility Program. Don’t worry because this is all taken cared of by your employer.

If you passed, the employer will provide you with a job offer (must be submitted by the employer in the Employer Portal), which is also needed when applying for a work permit. You will also need to submit an employment contract to apply. You can check out the documents and forms required here.

Keep in mind that there is no maximum time set when you work as a temporary worker in Canada. Nonetheless, the duration of work permit would depend on the agreement with your employer, length of time listed in the LMIA, and the validity of your passport.

Higher Taxes

Tax is the life-blood of every nation. Without this, the government won’t be able to provide services to its citizens. Unfortunately, Canada imposes high taxes. You will be asked to pay somewhere between 20 and 30 percent, depending on the tax income bracket you belong to. There is an additional 15 percent when you buy goods.

The consolation is that Canada provides excellent benefits to everyone. Health care system is among the best in the world. The government also offers free education, but make no mistake because quality is not compromised.

If you plan to migrate, the Canadian government offers child tax incentives, which you could benefit from.

Transportation

Public buses and trains are available in Canada so that you could go from point A to B. Some Filipino immigrants buy cars than riding public transport since it is more convenient.

Given this information, are you willing to take the risk, apply for a job, and go to Canada? Why not, right?