7 Unskilled Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship 2024

In recent years, Canada has emerged as a popular destination for immigrants looking for better job prospects and an improved quality of life. However, many aspiring immigrants may lack the qualifications or skills needed for employment in highly skilled sectors. This is where unskilled jobs with visa sponsorship become relevant.

Unskilled jobs are positions that do not require specialized education or training. These roles are often labor-intensive and can be learned through on-the-job experience. Common examples of unskilled jobs in Canada include general laborers, cleaners, food service workers, farm workers, and customer service representatives.

Why Consider Unskilled Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship?

• Availability
• Visa Sponsorship
• High Demand
• Opportunity for Growth
• Work Experience

How to Find Unskilled Jobs with Visa Sponsorship

• Online Job Boards: Many Canadian employers post job vacancies on online platforms like Indeed, Monster, and LinkedIn. These sites let you filter job searches by location, industry, and job type, making it easier to find unskilled positions with visa sponsorship.
• Government Programs: Programs such as the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) are specifically designed to help foreign workers find employment in Canada.
• Recruitment Agencies: These agencies can connect you with companies looking to hire workers from abroad, including for unskilled positions.
• Networking: Building connections with people who already live and work in Canada can also help you learn about job opportunities that may not be advertised publicly.

Benefits of Working in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

• Opportunities for Growth and Development: You can gain valuable work experience and skills that may help you advance in your career.
• Competitive Wages: Jobs in Canada often offer fair and competitive salaries.
• Access to Social Services: Employees with a valid visa can benefit from Canada’s healthcare and other social services.
• Pathway to Permanent Residency: Working in Canada with a visa can often lead to opportunities for permanent residency.
• Cultural Diversity: Living and working in Canada allows you to experience a multicultural environment.

Top Unskilled Jobs in Canada with Visa Sponsorship

1. Construction Laborer

The construction sector is a major part of the Canadian economy and one of its largest employers. With numerous infrastructure projects and new developments underway across the country, there is a consistent demand for both skilled and unskilled workers. This makes construction laborer positions a great option for those looking for unskilled work with visa sponsorship in Canada.

Job Description:

Construction laborers assist skilled workers on job sites by performing a variety of physical tasks. These include loading and unloading materials, digging trenches, setting up scaffolding, operating heavy machinery, and cleaning up debris. Laborers work under the supervision of experienced contractors to ensure that construction activities are completed safely and efficiently.

Qualifications and Skills Required:

Unlike many other jobs, becoming a construction laborer typically does not require formal education or specific qualifications. However, certain skills can enhance your chances of getting hired, such as physical strength and stamina for manual labor, the ability to follow instructions and meet deadlines, and familiarity with basic hand tools and safety procedures on construction sites.

Work Environment:

Working as a construction laborer can be physically demanding, as the role involves various manual tasks throughout the day. The work environment varies by project; outdoor jobs may expose workers to extreme weather conditions, while indoor projects might require working in tight spaces. Effective communication is also essential, as laborers need to coordinate with team members and supervisors.

Salary and Benefits:

The average hourly wage for a construction laborer in Canada ranges from $15 to $25, depending on experience and location. Many employers also provide additional benefits, such as health insurance, paid time off, and opportunities for career advancement.

Visa Sponsorship:

Construction laborer positions are eligible for visa sponsorship through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) in Canada. If you are hired for a laborer role, your employer can apply for a work permit on your behalf. However, the availability of visa sponsorship may depend on current job market conditions and immigration regulations.

For those interested in a construction laborer career in Canada, it is advisable to research job postings and companies that offer visa sponsorship. Additionally, consulting with immigration consultants or recruitment agencies can help you find suitable job opportunities.

2. Food Service Worker

Food service workers play a vital role in the hospitality industry by delivering quality food and exceptional customer service. They work in diverse settings, including restaurants, cafes, hotels, and catering companies. This job is perfect for individuals who enjoy engaging with people and have a passion for food.

In Canada, the demand for food service workers is high due to the country’s vibrant tourism industry and multicultural population. According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, there were over 40,000 job openings for food service workers in 2023 alone.

Job Duties:

The responsibilities of a food service worker can vary depending on the workplace but generally include:

• Preparing and serving meals
• Taking customer orders
• Maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the dining area and kitchen
• Restocking supplies
• Handling cash transactions
• Ensuring customer satisfaction

Qualifications and Skills:

Food service worker positions typically do not require specific educational qualifications or prior experience. However, to excel in this role, having strong communication skills, basic knowledge of food safety practices, and excellent customer service abilities are essential.

Visa Sponsorship and Eligibility:

To work as a food service worker in Canada with visa sponsorship, such as through the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), applicants must meet criteria set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This may include meeting language proficiency requirements (English or French), having sufficient funds to support themselves and their family, and maintaining a clean criminal record.

Salary and Benefits:

The salary for food service workers in Canada ranges from $12 to $18 per hour, depending on experience, location, and the type of establishment. Additionally, food service workers often receive tips, which can substantially increase their earnings.

Therefore, working as a food service worker in Canada offers promising opportunities for growth and development in the hospitality industry. It is a rewarding role that allows individuals to interact with a variety of people in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.

YOU MAY LIKE: Highest Paying Remote Jobs in the UK

3. Housekeeper

If you’re seeking a career in Canada that doesn’t require specialized skills or formal education, working as a housekeeper might be an excellent fit. Housekeepers are essential in maintaining the cleanliness and organization of homes and businesses, and there is consistently high demand for reliable housekeepers across the country.

Job Responsibilities:

As a housekeeper, your primary duties include:

• Dusting, vacuuming, and sweeping/mopping floors
• Doing laundry and changing linens
• Washing dishes
• Keeping the home or workplace organized and clean

Duties may vary based on the employer’s needs and the specific environment in which you work.

Qualifications and Skills:

While formal education is not required, strong attention to detail and effective time management are crucial. The job can be physically demanding, so physical fitness is important. Good communication skills are also necessary, as you may need to interact with clients or colleagues.

Work Environment:

Housekeepers can work in various settings, including private households, hotels, hospitals, schools, and even cruise ships. This variety allows you to choose an environment that best fits your preferences and career goals.

Salary and Benefits:

Housekeepers in Canada typically earn between $15 and $18 per hour, though this can increase to up to $25 per hour in certain locations. Some positions may also offer additional benefits such as health insurance and paid time off.

Visa Sponsorship:

Housekeeping jobs are eligible for visa sponsorship through programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP) or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Applicants should have prior cleaning experience and, in some cases, a valid driver’s license and access to transportation.

Therefore, a career as a housekeeper in Canada offers stability and the chance for advancement. If you’re organized, detail-oriented, and enjoy maintaining clean environments, this could be an ideal career path for you.

4. Truck Driver

Canada’s robust transportation sector makes it an ideal location for unskilled workers seeking job opportunities with visa sponsorship, particularly in truck driving. Truck driving jobs are one of the most sought-after unskilled jobs in Canada, with many companies offering visa sponsorship for skilled and experienced drivers.

Requirements:

• Valid Driver’s License: A class 1 or class 3 license is necessary to operate commercial vehicles like tractor-trailers.
• Clean Driving Record: A clean driving record is essential, as companies conduct background checks.
• Knowledge of Road Safety: Understanding road safety regulations is crucial for transporting goods efficiently and safely.
• Physical Fitness: The job involves long periods of sitting and handling heavy cargo, so physical fitness is important.
• Good Communication Skills: Effective communication with dispatchers and customers is essential.

Types of Truck Driving Jobs:

• Long-Haul Driver: Drive long distances across provinces or countries.
• Local Delivery Driver: Deliver goods within a specific local area.
• Dump Truck Driver: Transport materials such as sand, gravel, or construction debris.

Salary and Benefits:

The average annual salary for a truck driver in Canada is approximately $41,600, though this can vary based on experience, location, and employer. Benefits often include health insurance, retirement plans, and paid time off. Many companies offer visa sponsorship, which can lead to permanent residency if certain criteria are met.

5. General Labourer

General laborer positions are also a popular choice for unskilled workers in Canada, with many opportunities available that offer visa sponsorship. General laborers are needed across various industries for tasks like loading/unloading materials and operating machinery.

Requirements:

• Physical Fitness: The job is physically demanding, so being fit is important.
• Ability to Follow Instructions: You’ll need to follow directions from supervisors and experienced workers.
• Basic Math and Communication Skills: Some roles require basic math for measuring and calculating materials and good communication skills for effective teamwork.

Types of General Labourer Jobs:

• Construction Labourer: Assist with carrying materials, operating equipment, and supporting skilled tradespeople on construction sites.
• Manufacturing Labourer: Perform tasks like assembling products, packaging items, and operating machinery.
• Warehouse Labourer: Handle tasks such as loading/unloading goods, managing inventory, and operating forklifts.

Salary and Benefits:

General laborers in Canada earn an average annual salary of about $31,200, though this can vary based on experience, location, and industry. Benefits may include health insurance and paid time off. Visa sponsorship is available for skilled and experienced general laborers, which may lead to permanent residency.

6. Farm Worker

The agriculture sector is a crucial component of Canada’s economy, offering a range of opportunities for farm workers. In this role, you will assist farmers with various tasks related to crop cultivation and harvesting. These duties may include planting, watering, weeding, fertilizing, and harvesting crops like fruits, vegetables, and grains, or tending to livestock. You may also be required to operate farming machinery and equipment.

Farmers in Canada often seek foreign workers due to a shortage of local labor willing to take on this physically demanding job. Consequently, there are numerous job opportunities available for international workers looking to work in Canada.

Requirements for Becoming a Farm Worker in Canada:

• Physical fitness: Given the physically demanding nature of farm work, being physically fit is essential.
• Basic farming knowledge: Some roles may require prior experience or knowledge of farming practices.
• Ability to follow instructions: You’ll need to follow directions from supervisors or more experienced workers.
• Work permit: To work as a farm worker with visa sponsorship, you’ll need a valid work permit from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Your employer must first secure a Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) before you can apply for the permit.
• Basic skills: While formal education isn’t required, basic skills such as good communication, teamwork, and the ability to follow instructions are necessary.
• Language proficiency: A good command of English or French is important for effective communication with your employer and colleagues.
• Flexibility: Farm work often involves irregular hours, including weekends or holidays during peak seasons.

Types of Farm Worker Jobs Available:

• Crop farm worker: Involves planting, harvesting, and maintaining crops.
• Livestock farm worker: This entails caring for animals, cleaning barns or pens, and assisting with breeding programs.
• Greenhouse worker: Focuses on planting and caring for plants within a greenhouse setting.

Salary and Benefits:

Farmworker salaries vary depending on the specific duties and location. According to the Government of Canada’s Job Bank, the average salary is around $25,000 per year, although this can change based on experience, location, and farm type. Farm workers may also receive benefits such as housing and food allowances.

Visa Sponsorship:

Many Canadian farms offer visa sponsorship for skilled and experienced farm workers. This sponsorship allows you to work legally in Canada and could eventually lead to permanent residency if you meet specific criteria.

7. Caregiver

Caregiving is a rewarding profession that involves supporting individuals who cannot care for themselves due to illness, disability, or old age. In Canada, the demand for caregivers is high, driven by an aging population and the increasing need for in-home care.

To work as a caregiver in Canada, you’ll need a valid work permit and may require a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) from your employer. However, certain programs allow caregivers to come to Canada without an LMIA.

Live-in Caregiver Program (LCP):

The LCP allows Canadian families to hire foreign caregivers to provide live-in care for children, seniors, or individuals with disabilities. To qualify, you must have a job offer from a Canadian employer and at least six months of full-time training or one year of full-time paid work experience as a caregiver within the past three years. Under this program, you can apply for permanent residency after two years of work in Canada, offering a path to settle permanently.

Home Child Care Provider Pilot and Home Support Worker Pilot:

These pilot programs, introduced by Immigration Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), provide faster pathways for caregivers to obtain permanent residency. To be eligible, you need a job offer from a Canadian employer, meet language and education requirements, and have at least 24 months of full-time work experience as a home childcare provider or home support worker in Canada within the past three years.

Provincial Nominee Program (PNP):

Canada’s provinces and territories can nominate individuals through the PNP, targeting caregivers among other skilled workers. For instance, British Columbia’s PNP Healthcare Professional category is designed for caregivers. Eligibility typically requires a job offer from an employer in the province, along with specific education, language, and work experience criteria. Other provinces offer similar streams under their PNPs.

Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP):

The TFWP enables Canadian employers to hire foreign workers temporarily when no Canadian citizens or permanent residents are available for the job. Caregivers not qualifying under the above programs may consider this option. To be eligible, you need a valid job offer and a positive LMIA from Employment and Social Development Canada, confirming the need for a foreign worker.

Duties of a Caregiver:

• Assisting with daily tasks such as grooming, bathing, dressing, and toileting.
• Preparing meals and feeding.
• Administering medication.
• Providing companionship and engaging in activities with the client.
• Accompanying the client to appointments or outings.
• Assisting with household chores like laundry, cleaning, and grocery shopping.
• Monitoring the client’s health and reporting any concerns to medical professionals or family members.
• Ensuring the client’s safety at all times.

Qualities of a Good Caregiver:

• Empathy: Essential for understanding and sharing the feelings of the client.
• Compassion: Showing genuine care and respect for the client’s dignity and privacy.
• Patience: Necessary for dealing with clients facing physical or cognitive challenges.
• Adaptability: Ability to adjust to the unique needs of each client.
• Communication skills: Strong communication is crucial for interacting with clients, their families, and medical professionals.
• Physical stamina: The job may involve lifting, bending, and standing for long periods, requiring good physical endurance.
• Reliability: Clients depend on caregivers for daily support, making punctuality and dependability vital.

Caregiver Salary in Canada

The salary for caregivers in Canada can vary based on several factors, including location, experience, and the type of care provided. On average, caregivers earn around $16 per hour, according to PayScale. However, wages can range from $12 to $22 per hour, depending on the specific circumstances.

Caregivers working in larger cities or providing specialized care may command higher wages. Additionally, some employers offer benefits like health insurance and vacation pay, enhancing the overall compensation package.

For a deeper dive into this profession, explore my detailed article on Caregiver jobs.

Requirements for Obtaining a Work Visa in Canada

1. Job Offer from a Canadian Employer

To obtain a work visa in Canada, you first need a job offer from a Canadian employer. This offer must be legitimate and comply with standards set by Employment and Social Development Canada (ESDC). The employer must also justify why a Canadian citizen or permanent resident could not be hired for the role.

2. Labor Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)

Typically, your employer will need to secure an LMIA before offering you a job. The LMIA, issued by ESDC, verifies that there are no Canadian workers available to fill the position and that hiring a foreign worker will not adversely affect the Canadian labor market.

3. Proof of Qualifications

For unskilled jobs with visa sponsorship in Canada, you need to provide proof of relevant qualifications or experience in your field. This could include education certificates, trade certifications, or previous work experience. Keep in mind that specific provinces may have unique requirements for certain jobs.

4. Adequate English or French Language Skills

Proficiency in either English or French is essential for working in Canada. You can demonstrate your language skills through tests like IELTS (International English Language Testing System) or TEF (Test d’évaluation de français).

5. Valid Passport and Travel Documents

A valid passport and any other necessary travel documents are required to enter Canada. Ensure your passport will be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.

6. Medical Examination

Depending on the type of work, some visa applicants may need to undergo a medical examination to confirm they do not pose a health risk to Canadians. This is especially relevant for jobs in healthcare.

7. Admissibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the Canadian government’s admissibility criteria, including having no criminal record and being in good health.

Salary Scale

Here’s a general overview of the salary scale for unskilled jobs in Canada for 2024:

Applying for a Work Visa

• Determine Eligibility: Identify the type of work visa for which you qualify based on your job offer and qualifications.
• Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including a valid job offer, LMIA, proof of qualifications, language test results, and travel documents. Ensure everything is complete and up-to-date.
• Apply for a Work Visa: Submit your application online or via a paper application, depending on your country of citizenship.
• Pay Application Fees: Pay the non-refundable application fee when submitting your visa application.
• Wait for Processing: Visa processing times vary depending on the visa type and application volume. You can check current processing times on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
• Attend Biometrics Appointment (if applicable): Depending on your nationality, you may need to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photos) as part of your application.
• Receive Decision: After processing, you’ll receive a decision on your visa application. If approved, you’ll get a letter of introduction to present to an immigration officer when you arrive in Canada.

Additional Considerations

• Work Permit Duration: The length of your work permit usually corresponds to the duration of your job offer and LMIA. Most work permits are valid for up to two years, though some may last longer.
• Work Visa Extensions: If you want to extend your stay, apply for an extension before your current permit expires, ideally at least 30 days in advance.
• Work Visa Conditions: Your visa might have specific conditions, such as restrictions on the type of employment or employer. Adhere to these conditions to maintain your legal status in Canada.
• Permanent Residency Options: Working in Canada can lead to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class or Provincial Nominee Programs.

Conclusion

Canada is an attractive destination for immigrants looking for better job opportunities and a higher standard of living. For those without qualifications for highly skilled industries, unskilled jobs with visa sponsorship offer a viable path. These roles, which don’t require specialized training or education, include positions like general laborers, cleaners, food service workers, farm workers, and customer service representatives.

The benefits of unskilled jobs in Canada include availability, visa sponsorship, high demand, growth opportunities, and valuable work experience. Job seekers can explore these positions through online job boards, government programs like the Temporary Foreign Worker Program (TFWP), recruitment agencies, and networking. With competitive wages, access to social services, pathways to permanent residency, and cultural diversity, Canada remains an appealing destination for foreign workers.